Need a plant recommendation

MrsMoher

At the side of our house there is a little bed that is approximately 2 feet in width, but very long.  Currently there is nothing in there, but some bulbs, which I plan to replant in a different location.  I want something that we can plant in this bed that will fill in the area without getting so big that it hangs over onto the driveway.  We had to take out several rose bushes, because it would cut our hands when we tried to shut the car doors and they fell over onto the driveway, so you were driving over thorns.  The former owners did not make a very wise choice for the side bed.

We could do something that would grow up trellises I suppose, but we really just want to make this area pretty.  And I am in Northern Kentucky.  Any suggestions?

~NB~

It sounds as if it should have been paved over to be part of the driveway. Nothing should be planted that impedes getting in & out of the car. Another issue is that it may get stepped on or driven over, or get salted in the winter. Maybe Sedum would work there.

kpwedkk

What about jasmine, or gardenia?  What about a crepe myrtle or any of these nice plants?

http://allthingslovely.typepad.com/all_things_lovely/2009/09/backyard-climbers.html

MrsMoher

The driveway is wide enough, but when you open the door fully to get my son out and reach back to shut the door without looking (as any mother does because they are following the kid with their eyes) you rip the skin off your fingers with the roses.  I think other plants would be fine, but they have to stay in that 2 foot wide section.  I will check out some of these suggestions.  Thanks ladies!