Plant that spreads across a wall

[dick27]

I saw an image somewhere (I forget where) of plants growing across a wall and it prompted me to rethink some small beds for next year. They are shallow, though I plan to top them up for next year and on top of cement. They are small curves and the backdrop is a brick wall. I fancy something in the middle of each one that will grow up against the wall and spread out. It's an area that doesn't get much sun. Any ideas?

What sort of height/spread were you thinking of?

Evergreen honeysuckle. Mine doesn't mind shade and grows too quickly (clay).

I'd advise against anything that clings (e.g. Boston Ivy) or roots into the wall itself so you'll likely need to put up wires or trellis for support depending what you have in mind

The soil nearest to a wall can get very dry, the bricks suck up moisture and the ground at the base can also be in a rain shadow. So don't plant too close.

Virginia creeper? I’m not sure it would stick without a trellis but it’s gone up my fence no problem

Passionflower plants are lovely and easy to grow.

Passionflower has spread over a huge area in my neighbour’s garden but perhaps having a small area of soil might keep it a better size.

The wall is probably around 5 ft high, and each bed maybe 8 feet across. I want to still see the wall. I like the brick.

I already have 2 somewhere else - flipping love them, even though they aren't thriving

Ooh easily sold on Virginia Creeper and Passion Flower. Thanks

Virginia creeper can damage walls with the adhesive roots. I'd advise against

I've just bought some star jasmine for this.

Another vote for passionflower. Ours has spread quickly and still flowers brilliantly even on our north facing fence. It needs cutting back in winter just to keep it in check but we love it.

I’ve got climbing hydrangea which is very easy to maintain

Shallow and on top of cement may not be deep enough for permanent planting. There are some lovely climbing annuals like thunbergia and Spanish flag that might be happy there. Or runner beans!

I also have some of this - the most wonderful smell

Re Virginia creeper, be cautious. I am about to pay out £8k on top of the £40k for the damage one of those has done to the front of my house and roof with just simple suckers. 🙄Looked beautiful in a few years it got everywhere