Trees frame the house and provide background. Large trees should be farther from the house than small trees. Check the mature width of the tree to ensure that its branches will not rub against the house at maturity. Do not block the front view of the house. Small ornamental trees can be located near a corner or as an accent in the area near a door.
Good choices are dogwood, redbud, Japanese maple, crape myrtle, star magnolia and sourwood.
Treeform evergreen shrubs such as wax myrtle, burford holly, ligustrum or cherry laurel can also be used in small areas. Evergreen shrubs have always been the mainstays of foundation plantings. Shrubs that lose their leaves can be incorporated into an entry garden if they provide year round interest from striking form, bark or berries. Shrubs should generally be low and moderate in growth rate to reduce maintenance needs. Groundcovers can be used extensively in foundation plantings and are flattering to most Southern house styles.