I have a spot along the sidewalk that runs the width of the back of the house where I"d like to create a small bed. This spot is very moist in winter because of the water that runs off my deck when it rains heavily. So, I need plants that can handle a good deal of moisture in the soil, even though I will try to raise the bed a bit. I want a grouping that includes shrubs, and possibly a small ornamental tree. I hope to have something there that will get a good 5-6' of height, for interest. The area gets early morning sun, then shade, then some late afternoon sun.
So far I know that willows do well with 'wet feet' in winter. Any other small ornamental or specimen tree that would? Other ideas I have are astilbe, hosta, and maybe some japanese iris. The red-twigged dogwood bushes sound like a good choice, but I'd have to be sure I wouldn't end up with one that grows too large.
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they do not like wet feet ! I hd to dig holes in my clay soil and put a mic of gravel and triple mix in to ensure good drainage, and they have done better this year than ever before. Ferns would probably be good though
I have some of these in a shady low spot where the downspout is, so they get lots of water in all seasons. Some are over 4 ' tall by mid summer.
Well I'm in luck as I have both of those types in my shade garden so I can move some. :)
I still need something taller. I might check local nurseries to see if I can find a weeping pussywillow. I've spent a bit of time google surfing those and it seems they may be fussy, but I might try one.
CIMICIFUGA is another one that likes shade and moist soil.
The black foliage along with other green is a nice contrast.
- Ligularia 'Sungold'
Common name: Ligularia
Sometimes called Elephant Ears, this is a bold specimen perennial that needs a [B]moist location[/B]. Plants form a clump of large, rounded dark-green leaves. Branching heads of bright golden-yellow daisies are held on tall stems, well above the foliage. Height 45"- 55". Part shade.
There are a few varietes and bloom colours.