By Citygardener
Tyne And Wear,
United Kingdom 
I’ve recently signed up to this site and I’m enjoying reading the posts. I’ve moved from a large house with a lovely garden that I nurtured for years and now have a small L shaped yard which gets sun from midday til about 4pm. I’ve used deck to soften the concrete feel and tried to create a jungle theme using bamboo, fatsia, tree fern, palm and hostas. However, I’m looking for ideas to create height and a more dramatic effect for this summer. I’m thinking banana palms but that’s where my imagination has stalled. I’d be grateful for ideas, I’m looking to buy established plants to achieve a quicker effect. Because of the space limitations, I’ve tried to avoid anything that spreads to wide but otherwise, the (Sky) is the limit. I’m in central Newcastle and I’ve added some pictures of the space at the end of last summer.
2 May, 2018
Answers
I'd also consider some of the Cannas and false gingers, lush foliage and stunning flowers. but like the banana will need good winter protection.
welcome to GoY too :o)
2 May, 2018
Hello City Gardener, I don't have suggestions for you as I'm not into tropical plants myself, but I have to say that what you have done so far looks great! My garden is too big for me now and I'm considering moving somewhere smaller. Your 'yard' is quite inspiring!
2 May, 2018
Welcome to Gou, lots of ideas on here. Silver Leaved Artichoke (Cardoon) architectural plant, grows about 6ft? Has a long root though, would need a long pot.
3 May, 2018
Like Pennyfarthing I'm not into tropical plants either but think that what you've done looks good. Being me, I'd probably settle for that.
Welcome to GOY.
3 May, 2018
Yes, I agree with the others, it looks a really nice space to sit out in & welcome to GoY.
4 May, 2018
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Have you ever looked at 'bottle palms'? If you want drama, they will deliver. There are various types to choose from. I've seen many interesting displays from formal to whimsy while visiting Florida. They look exactly like what the name suggests and particularly effective with 3 or 5 grouped together with 1 or 2 slightly crooked for a whimsy effect. Google 'bottle palms' to see.
2 May, 2018