The Ultimate Guide To Best Plants For Full Sun Exposure
Garden Plant Care

Create a Vibrant Garden With These Sun-Rich Plants

Discover the best plants that thrive in full sun, from sunflowers to lavender.

October 25, 2024 at 4:38 AM PST
Garden Plant Care

Create a Vibrant Garden With These Sun-Rich Plants

Discover the best plants that thrive in full sun, from sunflowers to lavender.

October 25, 2024 at 4:38 AM PST

When it comes to gardening, one of the key factors to consider is the amount of sunlight your plants will receive. While some plants thrive in shady areas, others require full sun to reach their full potential. If you have a sunny spot in your garden that you’re looking to fill with vibrant flora, you’re in the right place. This guide is all about the best plants for full sun and adding a pop of color to your outdoor space.

Narrowing Down What Full Sunlight Is

Full sun typically refers to an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. In these bright conditions, plants that are categorized as full sun plants will flourish, producing lush foliage and vibrant blooms.

You should consider the soil type, making sure it is well-draining and enriched with nutrients for the best plant growth. A majority of plants needing full sun require more watering and pruning to fully thrive.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers in the Field on Sunny Day
DAPA Images

Sunflowers are symbols of happiness and positivity, known for their bright yellow color and ability to follow the sun, a phenomenon called heliotropism. This makes them a popular choice for adding cheer to any garden.

Beyond their ornamental beauty, sunflowers are cultivated for their seeds, which are nutritious and edible. Sunflower oil, extracted from these tasty seeds, is a widely used cooking oil, making this plant super versatile.

Some varieties can grow over 12 feet tall, making them impressive showstoppers in garden beds. They also provide shade for shorter plants, adding to their functional appeal.

Lavender

Lavender field at sunset
xalanx

Lavender is cherished not only for its stunning purple blooms but also for its calming aroma. The essential oil extracted from lavender is popular in aromatherapy, known for its stress-relieving properties.

This resilient plant thrives in poor soils and is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens. Its silvery foliage beautifully complements its vibrant flowers.

Historically, lavender has been used since ancient times. Romans and Greeks added it to baths for its soothing scent, while in medieval times, it was believed to ward off evil spirits.

Daylilies

daylily flower in the garden shining in bright sun
BING-JHEN HONG

The name daylily reflects the plant’s blooming habit. Each flower lasts just one day. However, a single plant can produce dozens or even hundreds of blooms throughout its flowering season.

In various cultures, daylily buds and flowers are considered a delicacy, often used in salads or as garnishes. It’s important to research which species are safe for consumption.

Daylilies are incredibly resilient and thrive in poor soil conditions. Once established, they require little to no maintenance, making them a great addition to any garden.

Blanket Flower

Indian blanket flower in bright sun
daniloforcellini

Native to North America, blanket flowers are named for their resemblance to the vibrant red and yellow colorful patterns of Native American blankets. They are excellent for pollinator gardens, attracting bees and butterflies.

Unlike many perennials that have a short bloom time, blanket flowers continue to bloom from late spring until fall, providing long-lasting color in the garden.

These hardy plants are heat-loving and can tolerate the hottest, driest conditions, making them ideal for xeriscaping or regions with scorching summers.

Black-Eyed Susans

Close up of a Black Eyed Susan flower
hongquang09

Black-Eyed Susans are low-maintenance perennials that thrive in full sun. Their daisy-like flowers with dark centers add a touch of charm to any sunny garden space. These are perfect plants for full sun and are a favorite among pollinators, particularly bees and butterflies.

Their seed heads provide food for birds in the fall, making them a great addition to wildlife-friendly gardens. In the language of flowers, Black-Eyed Susans represent justice and encouragement, adding meaningful symbolism to home gardens.

Russian Sage

Russian Sage in garden of dessert home
ivanastar

Russian sage features delicate lavender-blue flowers and aromatic, silvery foliage, adding texture and height to garden borders. Its airy form contrasts beautifully with denser plants.

This plant is rarely bothered by pests or deer, making it a fantastic low-maintenance option for gardens that experience wildlife disturbances.

Bloomin late summer to fall, Russian sage provides color and interest when many other plants begin to fade, extending the visual appeal of your garden.

Coneflowers

Sun setting on purple coneflower garden with bee on flower
bradleyhebdon

Coneflower is very well-known for its medicinal properties, particularly Echinacea, which is commonly used in herbal supplements to boost the immune system and combat colds.

These vibrant flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including butterflies, bees and hummingbirds. Additionally, birds like goldfinches feed on their seed heads in the fall.

Coneflowers are prolific self-seeders, allowing them to spread and establish themselves throughout your garden with minimal effort, making them ideal for naturalizing an area.

Sedum

Close up of Sedum Autumn Joy plants for full sun
Shawn Konopaski

Sedum, especially stonecrop varieties, is known for its thick, fleshy leaves that store water, making them incredibly drought-resistant. They are perfect for rock gardens or container plantings.

Many sedum species are cold-hardy, thriving in harsh winter conditions. They need very little soil, which is why they are often chosen for green roofs or the not-so-great gardener.

Late-season varieties like ‘Autumn Joy’ provide a burst of color, with their flowers transitioning from pink to bronze as the season progresses, adding valuable interest in the fall.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many hours of sunlight do plants for full sun need?

Full sun plants typically need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Some plants may tolerate partial shade, but they will perform best in full sun.

Can full sun plants grow in containers?

Yes, many full sun plants can grow in containers, provided the containers have good drainage and are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Some good container plants include zinnias, lavender and rosemary.

How do I protect plants for full sun from extreme heat?

To protect full sun plants from extreme heat, make sure to water them deeply and regularly, especially during prolonged heatwaves. Mulching around the base of the plants can also help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.




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