I can only speak for newer houses, but we were told that if we planted so close to the house we would break through the termite prevention barrier. Also, we were told that by watering close to the house we're "inviting" the little buggers in as they prefer damper as compared to drier soil. As a result we've gone out a couple of feet from all our foundations to plant. If anyone has info to contradict this I'd be all ears as I really like plants to go up to the house!

Crista

*barleria* - watermelon color (coral-ish) tubular flowers
*turnera* (eldorado?) - yellow flowers
*cape mallow* - bright pink flowers

The first two are my most recent additions of shrubby-type plants that will flower in the shade; the turnera requires more water than the barleria. I really like the barleria :)
However, this is their first summer; so far they're fine.

I think that cape mallow blooms year-round--and it doesn't like sun; mine's been blooming since last fall. Don't know about the others' bloom cycle.

vinca minor-ground cover has pink or purple flowers. Succulents and house plants will thrive there. Most bulbs(clivia..etc) and kangaroo paws should thrive as well. Cape mallow needs lots of sun but barleria, most types of justicia will do well. It depends on what look your friend wants to have.
My suggestion--do bulbs in the middle and cover it with a ground cover such as hearts and flowers or vinca minor.

usha, my cape mallow did best in complete shade on the north side of the house whereas another one that now gets lots of sun has fried. Could you be thinking of globe mallow?

Hi WP,
'Capemallow' encompasses lots of varieties. In general most of them and also globemallows need full sun. But I know which variety you are referring to....Anisodontia. That one can't handle full sun but does need partial sun to bloom..however it seems to behave as an annual in our weather. Mine died after one season. The nurserymen I had talked to all have similar experiences. Hope that your will remain as a perennial!
usha