We have an area of yard that serves no purpose, but the corner is all we can see from the kitchen sink window of our flat, so we thought we'd stick a large potted plant there to brighten up the view when we're doing the dishes.

We chose a California Lilac bush, which is currently about 3 feet tall, fairly woody and bare at the base.

The pot we've chosen is massive, and I was wondering could anyone suggest some companion plants to put around the base?

It will need to be very easy maintenance and ideally provide lots of summer colour year on year, only growing to 12" - 18" in height. We thought oranges and yellows would look nice. Needs to be commonly available, and non-toxic to pets.

Thanks in advance.