My niece has recently moved to Calgary, Canada, and is in a house where she would like to do some landscaping. I have already suggested that she look around to see what others in the area are growing, but some recommendations for shrubs and blooming plants would be most welcome. The coldest I've ever gardened was around zone 7.... so I'm not much help!
Thanks in advance for any help.

I'm 4a but quite a different climate to Calgary where there are big temperature swings in winter. What I would suggest is she visits some public gardens. The Calgary Zoo has gardens:

https://www.calgaryzoo.com/ani...

I think there are a couple of botanical gardens although one I looked up just now appears to be partially closed for maintenance.

I know of someone in Alberta, although I think Edmonton, who collects daylilies so that's one option.

We have a member in Calgary, @CarolineScott
Caroline, please can you suggest some shrubs and flowering plants for Hetty's niece's landscaping project?

First, your niece should join the Calgary Horticultural Society.
They have workshops etc. for new gardeners on many topics.
There are over 5000 members, so she will not only learn Gardening for here, but she will make new Calgary friends.

There are also many special interest gardening groups too.
Orchid Society, Rose Society, Peony Society, Lily Society etc.

Nanking Cherry is blooming now. Lilacs are just leafing out.
Hawthornes are nice when they bloom.

Caroline, you are WAY ahead of me -- no fair!

Thank you all!!!