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jenn_gw

Low-growing or groundcover plants to soften wall edge

jenn
12 years ago

We have a short slumpstone retaining wall across the back of our patio. In the middle of the wall is a short set of steps leading to a smaller "upper" patio. Behind the wall is a garden area surrounding the upper patio and extending to far side of the yard.

I'd like to plant some low-growing or groundcover plants on both sides of the steps and along the top of the wall to soften the edges. I'm thinking of Salvia (S. coahuilensis), Geranium (the Rozanne type), Verbena (would need some trimming but not much), Carpet Rose and Santa Barbara Daisy.

Our soil is clay and this area gets sun for most of the day. Geranium 'Rozanne' already grows about 5 feet behind the top of the wall, so I'm looking for contrast.

I don't want trailing plants that need frequent trimming (e.g. trailing Rosemary, ivy geranium, etc.) or thick groundcovers (Myoporum) to cover a big area or anything known to be invasive (Vinca). Believe me -- if it can be invasive anywhere, it will be in our yard.

Any favorites I'm not considering?

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