Southern California Privacy Hedge: Drought-Tolerant, Flowering, 5-6 Feet in 2-3 Years

True flowering evergreen hedges are rare. Most flowering shrubs are deciduous or sparse in winter. Strategy: plant a dense evergreen hedge (e.g., Carolina cherry laurel, privet, wax myrtle) for privacy, and add flowering shrubs (ceonothus, lavender, salvia) in front for color. Realistic timeline: 2–3 years for 5–6 ft with 3-ft plants and good care. Consult a local nursery—San Diego climate is unique.