How high up are the lowest branches? This will help determine the size of the plants. And if this is by your front door, which direction does it face? In other words, how much sun does the area you're trying to spruce up get? Even a huge tree on the south side allows for sun loving plants to grow. And, as long as I'm asking so many questions, what type of soil do you have? The more details you can provide, the easier it is for folks to give specific answers.

tj