On Sun, 05 Mar 2006 20:57:02 GMT, Norminn
wrote:

Good candidate for ivy?

Ivy can be invasive if it climbs walls, and can damage mortar or
aluminum siding. [stuff cut] It can get weedy, and collect debris. It
can also strangle trees and spread, so should be contained.

Agreed; I wouldn't recommend ivy anywhere near a building. Along a
highway sound wall, sure, but even then it can and does get out of
control.

My favorite for "no grow" spots is level soil, lay landscape cloth and
cover with river rock. Another nice shade plant is hosta; bushy clump
of leaves, and some varieties have a pretty blossom. Some are
variegated, some solid green.

I love hostas. Another option for your space would be ferns.