ideas for planing in shallow soil at base of fig tree

[ilovesushi]

I am struggling to keep anything alive round the base of my fig tree which is against a south facing brick wall. I am finding it almost impossible to dig a decent enough hole because all the roots are in the way. The soil is also relatively shallow. I have some crocosmia doing okay a bit further along and wild geraniums seems to survive in that spot. It is a full sun, sheltered dry spot. Any ideas?

What about sempervivum? They're very happy in shallow soil and love sun, or mexican fleabane grows anywhere!

Thank you! I like the look of the fleabane. Quick trip to the garden centre coming up!