I need your brains.  I have a section of south-facing fence that need something to grow in front of it.  The bed is probably about 5 ft x 12 ft, with the sidewalk in front of it.  I am in Sacramento- so think lots of sun and heat.  And we have water restrictions....

Ideally I would like something upright that I won't have to prune to keep under control.

I tried a thuja there (Janed Gold) and it hated it.

Ideas?

Theresa