I grew hostas and heucheras for their foliage and was very happy with the effect. Astilbes work nicely, too, because their colors tend to complement those of most roses and so does the texture of the flowers. Gypsophila, with its tiny white flowers can be nice as well. I tried ferns, but I could not keep them happy. I was also fond of cranesbill, but the only kind I was successful with was the pale blue one whose name if forget. I used catmint (Nepeta Walker's Low) a great deal because the plants were highly durable, their flowers small and nicely colored, and bloom lasted a long time. It has done very well for me in light shade; if your rose gets enough light, it will too. It's shown here with David Austin's Golden Celebration.
