Help needed with border

I'm looking to create a raised border 400cm by 35cm with flat pebbles. I would like to have plants, but have no idea what type. Can anyone suggest the best plants to use and how many I would need?

 

Are you looking for instant colour?
Do you want to use Annuals or Perennials?
Is there any height issues?

 

Good evening Emma
welcome to gardeners Corner. Are you interested in a "by the sea" type look? There are many that need little maintenance and can survive without too much watering.

 

Hi,

We would prefer Perennials. We have a height of up to 4 foot.

thanks

Emma

 

Yes, we probably are! As we are using pebbles. What would you suggest?

 

Hello Emma and welcome to the forum

Are you going for neat and formal, or slightly 'wild'? How much sunshine does the spot get?

I was thinking of things like red valerian, ice plant (sedum spectabile), and all manner of drought hardy perennial herbs.

 

I think we would like to have something neat as the pebbles are the main feature. I have taken a picture but don't know how to upload on here!

 

Here is a picture of the border in question.

 

One more question to help with plant choice Emma. Which way does the border face? Sunny or not?

 

plants with dark foliage would look good such as ophiopogon nigra (black mondo grass or turf lilly) heucheras, tialrellas or heucherellas some hardy geraniums have dark foliage as do some dahlias. Ferns come in a variety of shapes & colours as do sedums. Perenials would be easier than annuals as each time you dig you will have to move and replace the pebbles but when the leaves die down they will have to be carefully removed.
Another option would be to put whatever you fancy in pots and sink them in or use the pebbles as a contrast to pots stood on them. Dark pots white flowers or vibrant colours. you have a lot of options.

 

Oooooh that fence is just crying out for a climber.

 

It's a south facing garden, so it does get sun most of the day.

 

I like the idea of the ophiopogo nigra. What do you think about having a couple of bay trees or something similar?

 

I know it sounds a stupid question, but what depth of soil is under the pebbles? I think revin helen's idea of sunken pots would suit you. I'd go for sea holly, thrift and other sea-shore type plants - something architectural. iris may look good too and there are lots of varieties to choose from.