Ferns will usually enjoy this sort of spot. Also, variegated ivy that is sold as a pot plant (harden it off first). Make sure that you enrich the soil before you plant. Or put these in pots and stand them around the area if the ground is really solid with roots. You could also rotate some pots of Begonias or Bizzy Lizzies during the summer. Swap them into a less shady spot every week.

Soil is likely to be very dry in that area - have a look at Lamiums (L. White Nancy, for instance) and Ruscus.