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We evaluated the growth and development of the medicinal species Pothomorphe umbellata (L.) Miq. under different shade levels (full sun and 30, 50, and 70 % shade, marked as I100, I70, I50, and I30, respectively) and their effects on gas exchange and activities of antioxidant enzymes. Photosynthetically active radiation varied from 1 254 µmol m−2 s−1 at I100 to 285 µmol m−2 s−1 at I30. Stomatal conductance, net photosynthetic rate, and relative chlorophyll (Chl) content were maximal in I70 plants. Plants grown under I100 produced leaves with lower Chl content and signs of chlorosis and necrosis. These symptoms indicated Chl degradation induced by the generation of reactive oxygen species. Stress related antioxidant enzyme activities (Mn-SOD, Fe-SOD, and Cu/Zn-SOD) were highest in I100 plants, whereas catalase activity was the lowest. Hence P. umbellata is a shade species (sciophyte), a feature that should be considered in reforestation programs or in field plantings for production of medicinal constituents.