A retaining wall against my neighbours garden which is about 3 feet lower than mine.

Jasmine101

I want to plant something flowering, no more than 2m in height, as a screen in summertime in a border which happens to be edged by a retaining wall against my neighbours garden which is about 3 feet lower than mine.  This border has always had herbaceous plants with no issues to the wall however I am concerned about large roots from shrubs.  The plant/shrub could be placed about 2 feet  from the edge, preferably not in a container, and perhaps removed altogether every few years.  Could you recommend something like Leycesteria or Lavatera which is to be at least 5 foot in height by the beginning of June? 
Normal soil, watering no problem. Many thanks.

Lizzie27

Could we have a photo please, I'm finding it difficult to visualize that situation.

Jasmine101

Sorry for any confusion.  Imagine two typical urban gardens next to each other separated by a fence.
In my case my garden is 3 feet higher than my neighbours.  What stops my soil falling into theirs is the 3 foot high retaining wall on top of which is said fence.   I don't want anything on my side pushing its roots against the wall causing structural damage.  Hence I can't just plant a hedge of shrubs.  Also, there is only one spot with a view I really want to block.   I am even considering maybe three bamboos in pots in a line to act as a screen in summer when I am sat outside, but I would prefer to plant directly in the ground provided the roots are not too invasive.  Any suggestions?  

edhelka

What type of fence do you have there and how high? If solid, do you need height above the fence? If it is something see-through, is it a chain-link fence or something with more structure (possibly supporting for a climber)?

Jasmine101

The fence is about 4 feet high, wooden panels into concrete supports.  So quite low on my side but quite high from my neighbours point of view.  I do not wish to add a climber support.  I am quite happy with my tall grasses, echinops etc except for one spot.  The effect I am after is like a large shrub creating a screen which needs to be in place by the end of May eg sunflowers will not do.  What I have had is an evergreen in a large pot, very difficult to keep sufficiently watered in summer and very unhappy in that  confined situation.  I would plant a Leycesteria or a Buddleja in the ground  in a second if only I could be sure the roots would not cause a problem.   Grateful for any thoughts.