Border is mildly sloping, Full Sun, 14' deep and 35' long.

I intended to plant 11 Edward Goucher abelias, 2 groupings of Miscanthus Morning Light, and have a few Pipa's Red Chinese Fringe Flower bushes. I'm adding Russian Sage and purple coneflowers. I feel that the border needs to be "anchored" or framed by some evergreen shrubs or possibly a small tree. I'm also not quite sure whether to plant 3-5 Pipa's all together or scatter a few throughout the border. I'd appreciate any suggestions. I'm trying to avoid plants that will need tons of watering after installation due to our drought.