We have sagos by our pool. They were here when we bought the house and are at least 30 years old. There are many pups. I wish we didn't have them. They are huge and hubby can't get close enough to get the blossoms out. Lantana will provide low color and is drought friendly.

I would agree with Suzi. If it were up to me, I wouldn't choose sagos either. If you are looking for something structural and upright, there are easier choices. However, if you really like the look, they aren't terrifically dangerous to dogs. Everything has its downside.

Thanks guys great comments...

Pennisetum setaceum 'Purpureum' has needed very little water in my heavy soil.

Phormium, Hesperaloe, Yucca.

Ya know I really like the New Zealand Flax, Phormium, and the Hesperaloe! Those are all going the direction I'm thinking and add color and interest, but I can plant them solidly and make a fun statement. Yes, I'll pursue those! Thanks!

I agree with skipping the sagos. Just my opinion, they become oversized and unattractive. Leaves and other debris stick in them and is difficult to remove. They can stick you in the eye if gardening around them. Not a fan.

Wow! Thanks I had no idea! Any ideas of burgandy, yellow or orange plants/flowers that could graduate in size. Perhaps flax (if there is a burgandy 3-4' version)in the background, then like the Mexican feather grass in front of that, then maybe blue fescue....or maybe instead of flax purple fountain grass?

Google Fire Spinner ice plant. It's bright!

Aloes come in all sizes and most have orange flowers.

Look at something like Blue Boy yucca for cooler contrast.

Sticks of Fire euphorbia.

Larger echeverias and sempervivums.

These are great suggestions. Really like the Blue boy and euphorbia. and the fire spinner ice plant. Don't see those around here (i'm in the bay area) so love the idea of finding some different plants not in our neighborhood, but looked up, and they are in the nurseries! Thanks!!

Pink Trumpet Vine..missed the bloom though.