Plant suggestions for a dry spot:

[hedgehog]

The corner of my porch receives a lot of afternoon sun. There is a large maple tree nearby, so this spot is in a rain shadow as well. The tree blocks rain from this spot and the roots suck up a lot of moisture. The house is angled so the summer sun hits this spot from noon to sunset.

Some sites recommend daylillies for dry shade. I'd love them if they'd survive there.

Any comments?

[Bongo Prophet]

1. In a word, Rosemary.

[hedgehog]

2. This is a zone5/6 spot, so I think rosemary is out. Maybe lavender?

[Bongo Prophet]

4. I did not realize you were so far north, yes, lavender should be fine

As to Rosemary, which i consider a culinary must have, is so easy to grow and hard to die that it was my first thought, especially since it was near the house. Better in a container in your area, so you can keep it in a sunny spot, then bring it in or otherwise protect it...

Some brave soul tried it here:
http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/load/herbs/msg01092721714.html


I have seen lavender aplenty when on Vancouver Island, but that has warm current microclimates , so may noty apply.

Out of my league here, as I am in Texas.;)

[plantwomyn]

3. Depending on how high the Maple limbs are pruned

just about any Sedum would be a good beat for a perennial in NY. Needs little to no water and will grow in poor soil-even sand. There are many varieties of Sedum from 3" to 2' in height, every color of foliage - from yellow to almost black and flowers - yellows, pinks and reds. It also looks good in the winter and usually isn't cut down till spring {only the taller varieties need deadheading}.
Delosperma - hardy ice plant - is another hard core plant with much the same qualities. It is used in southern states and CA as a road side groundcover because it needs NO care. the big difference is that it is rairly over 10" high. Flowers are outstanding! Zone 5.