What shade loving plants besides hostas will tolerate dry, heavy clay soil?

Jetstream oakleaf hydrangea is tolerant of a wide variety of soil types and does fine in some shade. For perennials, look for tiarella, Jacob’s ladder, coral bells, and brunnera. Through trial and error, you will find some plants that do well in those conditions. However, it might be best to make or purchase compost to amend and improve the soil so your plants can grow healthy roots.