Hello Dale,

I think that you might really like the PlantSelect search engine. If you go to this link and then click the green button that says "Right plant right place" there will be filters that you can apply (like height, that it's an evergreen, that can live in partial shade).

From a cursory search I did find:

Cercocarpus intricatus

This dense, twiggy evergreen shrub is from the Southwestern desert areas. A fine, small-scale hedge plant for a sunny, dry spot or as a specimen in the Xeriscape. Small flowers transform into attractive, feathery seedpods. Small to medium-sized shrub. Tips from the pros: Responds to light pruning. Doesn't need much, pretty much takes care of itself.

Plant Characteristics

Plant Type: Shrub
Hardiness Zone: 3 - 9
Light Requirements: Sun
Height: 4' - 5'
Width: 3' - 4'Foliage Color: GreenAttributes: Attracts Pollinators, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Hedge, Winter Interest


But using the search engine might allow you to find something that fits your needs even better. All of the PlantSelect varieties have proven themselves to do well in our climate and it's a wonderful resource.

I hope this helps!

Boulder County Master Gardeners