Small or dwarf shrubs, Zone 5, shade: What do you suggest?

[Arlene]

That's what I need! We have an area under some low windows that needs some year-round interest -- don't want to interfere with the view of lake, so they have to be short.

BTW, I have a serious and long-standing prejudice against barberry -- it comes from time spent digging thorns out of the bare feet of crying children. And mine, as well. Every time I see the beautiful red color I'm tempted . . .

Thanks for your suggestions!

Arlene

[viktoria]

Microbiota decussata; variegated Euonymus; dwarf hemlocks (pricey!)...

[DryGulch]

Clethra hummingbird (wonderfull fragrance, blooms in late summer),

Fothergilla Mt. Airy (blooms right now with a nice scent, bottle brush type flower, nice fall color foliage--orangey),

A shrub rose... Morden Blush, Champlain, or Pink Knockout

Woodwardii globe arborvitae,

or maybe the Rhododendron PJM?

...just a couple that come to mind.

[viktoria]

...azaleas, rhodos, mountain laurels (there are small varieties of all of these), depending on just how shady it is. All of them need some sun to bloom well.