I have a side yard with a block wall that is 6' tall in my yard and about 5' tall on the other side so it provides little to no privacy. Need to plant for privacy and a local guy suggested Silver Sheen but I am not sure if it can take our summers and our winds. I like the fast growing part and it looks beautiful so if it can work that is the way I would like to go. As far as trimming goes - would once a year be enough? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.