Need plant suggestion
 

Something that will be planted in a sunny area, 4-5 feet tall, can be a flower or just something green, and grows straight up (pretty much)....any suggestions? Thank you!

Try ti plants. They can be trimmed if they get taller than what you want. Also, drive around and look at others’ landscaping. If you like something, knock on the door and ask what the plant is. Most people enjoy talking about their plants.

That question is in league with what color should I paint my home. We are getting ready to have the house painted and I suggest you copy how we made the decision. Drive around and see plants and styles that appeal to you. If, you are in a newer area be sure to look at homes that have had that plant for a while. You go to a box store or a garden center and see a pretty plant. They are grown under ideal conditions, often offered for sale at the most appealing time for that plant-in bloom, showing new leaves etc etc.
Before you buy, look it up on the internet. There are many plants being sold that are not hearty in this area. People buy them and do not realize they die because of a cold winter or a dry whatever. If, you see a plant and no one but one home has it there is a reason. Where we used to live, I had a great peony collection. They are sold here in the box stores. People buy them. Our climate is too hot for them and our soil is not right either-they do sell them every year.

Contact Master Gardener for plants suitable to this area that will do what you want.

I'd recommend a weeping bottle brush. Requires a lot if sun but not complete sun. Very beautiful plant.

Go to a nursery and go to their sunny area.

Just to be aware, I read that the Bottle brush does not do well with frost. TV does usually have a few days of frost, so it would probably need to be covered up. But it sure is beautiful!

A great newer shrub is Sunshine Ligustrum. It has bright yellow foliage. Grows 4-5 feet tall and can be trimmed to keep it lower. Newer growth is the brightest yellow so occasional trimming (once or twice a year) can keep the bush more compact as well as stimulating the brightest yellow foliage. Loves full sun.