The smoke bushes are going to be reaching for the sun (growing sideways), at best. Different people like different things, but I can't imagine hiding the trunks of a crape myrtle. If it were me, I'd go maybe for a good shade-tolerant fairly low-growing groundcover.

Or underplant with some of the dwarf loropetalums. 'Purple Diamond', 'Purple Pixie' ...if you want something evergreen.

Thanks for the advice, all! Some great alternative suggestions here. I'll need to give this some more thought.

you dont define the plant you are calling a smoke bush ... amybe the TX smoke bush is different than the MI smoke bush.. of which i am totally blanking on the name.. oh.. Cotinus coggygria ....

i had one.. that grew to the gutters of the house... and 5 feet beyond ... before i cut it to 6 inches.. and 2 years latter.. it was back up to the gutters .. a rather aggressive plant

that doesnt sound like something that will fit nicely .. UNDER some other plant ...

ken

Yeah, cotinus coggygria is the one. These would actually be planted between the crepe myrtles (Natchez gets quite large), but I agree with those who have commented that this is not the best option. The purple loropetalums look like they could be winners. Unfortunately, I already bought three of the smoke bushes, so I'm going to have to fine another spot. Oops!