If you want to use butterfly bushes, look for the 'Lo and Behold' varieties that stay small and compact so that you don't have to worry about them growing over the windows in summer-- 'Blue Chip' and 'Miss Ruby'. Buddleia are easy for beginners.

Knock-out Roses are supposed to bloom with only 3 hours of sun. Mine are in the sun all day. Easy for beginners.

My Encore Azaleas get full morning sun and afternoon shade. Easy for beginners.

For evergreen, glossy foliage -- holly Burford nana (small variety, NOT the tall one!). The 'soft touch' hollies have small foliage that isn't glossy.

If you have deer -- do not plant roses and azaleas.

Cameron