The thread title says it all, except for needing something at least five feet high that does not spread.
Well, i think the Elaeagnus pungens is too big. Did I mention that the plot is a raised bed with a tree stuck in the middle? ;-D The bed is about 8 x 5. It is in a co-op complex and most of us have a tree or large bush to contend with and this requires quite a bit of creativity. The 'corner' is bounded by a wall on the east side and a trellis fence on the south side. It is the only part of the bed that is bone dry all year. that's why I think that the mahonia might be perfect but seems to need more moisture and sun?
There is a silver-leaved Cotoneaster that might work well, or else a yew if you don't want flowers. Some ferns, mostly polystichums, can take these conditions too. If you want a vine on that trellis, you might consider Akebia, although all the flowers would probably be on the outside of the fence facing the sun, if the layout is as I understand. One key element of success in such conditions is getting the plants established. Fall planting is best; if you plant in spring or summer they need lots of watering through their first season.
