I'd also like to add that while I will prune this if I have to I'd prefer something that will keep a great shape on it's own. I'm all for minimizing maintenance. :)

Thanks!
Kristy

Wine and Roses weigela sounds perfect for you. It flowers heavily in spring. Right now mine is loaded in blooms that the hummers love!

I would do a ninebark for sure. See the thread on ninebarks for photos. :)

A ninebark will get MUCH too big, and are not suited to pruning to size.

That has not been my experience. I have none that are over 6' tall and I have had them for several years. Perhaps I have mutant growing conditions...? lol

Might try a Rose Glow Japanese Barberry. Mine are several years old and no more than 4 feet tall.

Alexa

Here is a link that might be useful: Rose Glow barberry

Are we talking directly in front of this brich?

If so you should go smaller...like 3' max, plus the canopy will effect the light conditions within a few short years so go with something that can tolerate partial sun down the road, yet full sun now...Weigela is the winner.

If its 15' away or so I like the Rose Glow suggestion.

I appreciate all the input! You've all suggested things that I've made a mental list of. I still haven't decided if we'll opt for a shrub (which would be considered if this will be the "back drop" for the garden) or if we'll get some larger perennials.

The birch is about as big as it's going to get and the spot where the new plant(s) will go gets uber hot in the late spring and summer. It'll see morning sun and then it's on its own the rest of the day....which is why some good hardy summer perennials might be the route we go.

I really do appreciate all the input though! I like hearing how things do with other folks!

Kristy :)

Would you mind checking your state's invasives list to see if barberry is on it? It's an increasing problem.

People protest that they've never found a seedling on their property. It;s the birds who spread them, and they don't always pass the seed on the same property where the plant is....wings, they fly.

It's a consideration

Hi Idabean. Were you asking me to check on barberry? If so, I can almost guarantee you it is not on our state's list of invasive species as it is one of the most overused plants that landscapers use around here.

As a matter of fact, we had it at our last property....pretty color in both summer and fall. But I was not a fan of being poked when trying to navigate around it. Not to mention the fact that the ones I see in our immediate neighborhood don't seem to be thrilled with the sandy "soil" we have. Though we did put in tons of black dirt before we laid everything down...I don't think the barberry would be at the top of my shrub list this time around.

Thanks again...and no offense to barberry lovers. I do enjoy their beauty when they grow well (in other folks' yards). ;)

Kristy :)