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Midwest Gardening

Plant Suggestion?

17 years ago

We have an area that is roughly 14 inches wide by about 50 feet long. On one side is a retaining wall and alley on the other is a sidewalk and then the house. The soil would not be considered well draining, but does not pool water. It gets morning and early afternoon sun.

We are looking for a plant that will grow between 3 and 5 feet tall or can be trimmed into shape. It has to be sturdy so it does not obstruct the alley. also would like it to have roots what will not destroy the sidewalk or the retaining wall.

Do you have any suggestions?

Thanks,

Mike

Comments (3)

katielovesdogs
17 years ago
Rudbeckia nitida 'herbstonne' might be a good choice. It's a really tall (5-8') blackeyed susan that blooms in summer and fall.
barbiejo
17 years ago
To make it look more native, large coneflower (maybe even purple) would look really pretty!!

Barb
webkat5
17 years ago
Not sure that Rudbeckias would like to be where there is little drainage...

Have you thought about Hardy Hibiscus? (Hibiscus moscheutos) They can be pinch pruned to shape once they emerge in the spring. They love water. They have some nice new varieties...'Kopper King' and 'Plum Crazy' (both have darker foliage and very showy flowers) are two of my favorites.

Another possibility might be Clethra alnifolia 'Hummingbird'
It likes wet areas....

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