What to plant behind retaining wall?

[RosemaryK]

Hi 

I have just had three massive Cypress pines cut down and now am left with this sloped area behind a retaining wall. Cant really use it for anything apart from the dog goes up there but would like to make it look nice. I am thinking Australian natives and something to cover up the fence. I need something low maintenance. I'm in Sydney - northern beaches. Ideas welcome.

Thanks so much!

[MitchellMc]

Hi @RosemaryK,

Given the slope and the need for something hardy, I'd definitely be thinking along the lines of Australian natives, too. Plants like Grevillea ground covers, Myoporum parvifolium (Creeping Boobialla), and Hardenbergia could be great choices to cascade down the slope a little and help with soil stabilisation. They’re tough, low-maintenance, and will give you a nice green cover without much work.

For covering up the fence, you could look at climbers like Pandorea jasminoides (Bower Vine) or even train something like Kennedia rubicunda (Dusky Coral Pea) along it. Both have beautiful flowers and will give the fence a much softer look over time. 

You could even consider some decorative panels to mount between the climbers.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell