Unless your house is more than 2 stories or you are only referring to foundation plantings, this area should receive some pretty good light, if not direct sunlight. My front entry garden faces north and because of surrounding trees in other areas, is the only portion of my garden than can be considered full sun. Obviously not the portion immediately adjacent to the house but extending out to the property line (only a depth of 20'), this area is in full sun in summer.

The barberries and spiraea would be happier in more sun than shade - I'd move them out as far as possible. Other choices you might want to include are rhododendrons, azaleas, pieris, kalmia, itea, leucothoe, sarcococca (sweet box), clethra, daphne, other hydrangea species, various viburnums, and twig or shrub dogwoods. Some of these may not be hardy for your zone (whatever that is) so check with local garden centers or your extension office for appropriate selections.

I second the azaleas and rhododendrons! If I didn't have horses, I'd plant a bunch. They like acid soil, but you can add things to the soil if necessary. They come in many colors and are so pretty when they bloom :)

Will Nandina grow in your area? Nandina domestica grows about 6 ft, has bright red berries in late fall thru winter, and turns pretty colors in late winter. Firepower turns some beautiful colors too.

{{gwi:241424}}