Those that live in hot climates often utilize native plants or plants that are drought tolerant. A great example is a cow’s tongue prickly pear (Opuntia lindheimeri or O. engelmannii var. linguiformis, also known as Opuntia linguiformis). Besides having a fabulous tongue in cheek name, prickly pear cow’s tongue is very tolerant of heat and dry conditions, plus it makes a great barrier.
Source: Gardening Know How