Looks sort of like amsonia, although mine are taller.

I'd go with the Bristly Locust too. It's a very small tree when full grown; kind of gangly looking but with pretty flowers. Guess it depends on what you like in your yard whether you keep it or not. I think it's kind of decorative (but then, there aren't too many plants I don't find decorative). WW Here is a link that might be useful: Robinia hispida

Have you grown a cineraria lately? Looks like you have one now. Nice plants.:-) http://www.thetortoisetable.org.uk/common/files/catalogue/706/large/cineraria_03%20may%202011%20022%202.jpg

do i remember this house.. perhaps before it was painted ... would you consider moving the box.. centering it ... and then just planting perennials around it ... [or just get rid of it.. with all the issues box usually ends up with ???] and i might extend the bed into a more gradual swoop ... so it doesnt come in so starkly to the porch column ... and then i would go 3D and get some nice trees going out in the lawn ... though i cant see a lot of it ... you have a tall house.. but you beds are so thin depth wise ... you arent going to be able to get the height you need.. to anchor the house to the lawn and garden ... so go out 10... 20.... 30 feet ... and plant some trees out there .. redbud... and or a crab ... something with a flower to pop in spring ... magnolia if you can get away with it in your zone 5 ... really.. do you really need all that grass.. maybe bocci tournaments or something... could you go out to the curb ... and snap a pic of the whole front yard.. it might inspire us... for more ideas ... and i would go with a natural mulch.. that will age to natural grey ... and blend with your house... not fight it.. black would be to much in your face.. and god help us.. you dont want red mulch ... do you???? you might also shave some of the soil off the box bed.. so when you mulch ... the mulch is self contained in the bed.. and not above such.. and then easily knocked into the walkway or driveway .. btw... is snow removal a thing in your z5 ny??? .. if so.. that is a variable with the plants you choose ... if snow is piled there.. you need die to the ground plants ... ken