Retaining Wall Planting: Shade-Tolerant Shrubs and Perennials, Mulch Over Rock

New retaining wall at front and side of house. Side = mostly shade (bleeding hearts planted). Front = shade near house, sun beyond awning. Want shrubs/perennials with subtle contrast to a colorful perennial bed nearby. Mulch or rock against house?

Mulch, Not Rock

Triple-ground bark blend. Rock heats soil, cooks roots. Mulch breaks down, feeds soil, moderates temp. Keep mulch 6″ off siding/brick.

Shrub Picks (Front: Part Sun to Sun)

• Nandina domestica – Evergreen, red fall color, non-invasive cultivars ('Gulf Stream', 'Firepower').
• Chamaecyparis 'Gold Mop' – Threadleaf false cypress, golden mounding, 2–3 ft.
• Fothergilla 'Dwarf' – Bottlebrush flowers, brilliant fall color, 3–4 ft.

Perennials for Transition Zones

• Shade edge: Hosta, heuchera, Polygonatum (Solomon's seal).
• Sun edge: Coreopsis 'Moonbeam', sedum 'Autumn Joy', Echinacea.

Photos help refine. But these are solid, low-fuss performers for wall-top beds.