Offerings of dwarf shrubs are plentiful from growers, so there are many to choose from. They’ve become trendy and desired. If for full sun, consider Kaleidoscope or Confetti abelia. I love the colorful foliage of these, plus their small, white flowers. There are many planted along the walls of Oakland Cemetery. Then there’s Pugster Blue butterfly bush, Diamond Spire gardenia, and loropetalum- Purple Daydream or Dwarf Crimson Fire. Purple Pixie dwarf loropetalum has a weeping form, which is neat. Soft Touch hollies offer soft foliage and resist common pests and diseases.
And what about ornamental grasses? Pink muhly stays a bit more compact, and carex is nice, but prefers partial shade.