Suggestions for a showcase climber in planters

I have just quoted for a large commercial centre which is also used for wedding receptions etc. and what surprised me is that they have a large double door entrance / porch supported by two wide white columns. I am sure you can picture it, a typical entrance for these types of venues but it does looks very bleak and uninviting.

I believe that the entrance could be made more attractive and was toying with suggesting some large moveable planters and plant up with Jasmine. The plants will need to be hardy but could be moved to another area of the centre which perhaps would be more suited for non hardy plants and brought out as required.

I do like Bougainvillea but their spiky thorns and woody appearance could be an issue! Another possible could be Streptosolen jamesonii (the marmalade bush) as if conditions are right it could be in flower most of the year.

Being more of a grass man, I would appreciate if anyone has any suggestions as to suitable plants or even trees and perhaps maybe something just a little different. Height wise I guess looking around the 2M mark.

Thanks

Replies

Lawncare-4u.co.uk January 21, 2012 at 3:45pm

orange/lemon trees ?
Graeme @ BGS January 21, 2012 at 3:48pm

Thanks Rob - food for thought - I have even considered Olive trees.
Graeme @ BGS January 21, 2012 at 4:26pm

Nice one John - I can see something like this working at the sides of the porch way but ideally need something "thin" to break up the columns and also add a a bit of a wow factor including the smell as they walk pass it.
Graeme @ BGS January 21, 2012 at 4:30pm

I do like Nandina domestica and RHS Wisley has quite a few but these I believe and happy to be corrected wouldn't grow that tall but guess useful as base plant?
Graeme @ BGS January 21, 2012 at 5:01pm

My fault John, I didn't read all of your comment but yes it would be a great base plant and help take the eye off the base a bit. No photo unfortunately but will consider taking one. Thanks for all your help and suggestions.
Graeme @ BGS January 21, 2012 at 5:06pm

Found this off the web, it was I believe for a Halloween Wedding and the event company brought the plants in.
PRO

Nick @ NM Garden Services Ltd January 23, 2012 at 7:27pm

Trachelospermum jasminoides would be my choice. Jasmine like flowers in June and a beautiful fragrance.
Claire Brown January 23, 2012 at 7:52pm

def. go with Trachelospermum rather than Jasmine officinale, - which can get tatty looking in time and isn't evergreen so sheds leaves like nothing in the winter. - There are also variegated Trachelospermum
T & S Plants January 23, 2012 at 8:03pm

Trach jas is a good choice. Very highly scented in flower and evergreen. Flowering June-August.

For now till March, Sarcococca confusa, again highly scented and evergreen.

Choisya White Dazzler for in between, free flowering and scented.

This mix is hardy, evergreen and white flowering.

Underplanting of bulbs might help?
Graeme @ BGS January 24, 2012 at 1:28pm

Excellent - Thanks everyone.