Plants for full sun will find happy homes in south and west-facing gardens. Sun-loving plants tend to be bright and vibrant florals who soak up rays and transform them into sensational colours and scents.
The right plant, right place principle in garden design helps avoid disappointment having plants fail on you. So buying plants specifically for their preferred conditions is a smart long-term investment.
"Some gardens, such as south-facing ones, are exposed to lots more sunlight and heat than others, so it is important to choose plants that will thrive in bright conditions," says Charlotte McGrattan, Hillier Garden Centres Head Nursery Stock Buyer.
Plants for full sun to choose for bright garden conditions
"There is a wider variety of plants for full sun than ones, which like shadier environments, so there is plenty of opportunity to incorporate fantastic colour, texture, and interest to your garden landscaping," says Charlotte McGrattan.
1. Kniphofia
Also known as red-hot pokers, this perennial plant is a great choice for a warm and exotic border.
“Kniphofia flower throughout much of the year – from March to November – so are ideal for adding colour into gardens through all seasons but winter. Colours are wild and varied – from red and orange, through to yellow and green, and even brown and pink," says garden designer Melanie Hick.
"Growing up to 210cm, they are also ideal for adding some height and creating zones in gardens, or even as garden screening from neighbours," she says.
Try Kniphofia Tawny King | Red Hot Poker at Primrose.
Melanie Hick will design a show garden at the prestigious RHS Hampton Court Flower Show 2024. The “Climate-Forward Garden” will embody the core principles of MHGD, depicting a front garden re-imagined for today’s ever-changing climate.
Shop low-maintenance plants for sun
You'd struggle to find a hardier variety of agapanthus. This perennial will power on in a sunny spot growing large flower heads on stately stems.
This is a striking, low-growing rose that is long-flowering and resilient. It's perfect for sprawling over slopes and banks and love to soak up the sun.
Masses of flowers on tall stems are produced for a long period from late spring to autumn. Performs best in a sunny spot in well-drained soil.
2. Sunflowers
The clue is in the name here, as these iconic blooms will not fail to brighten up any sunny spot. They are easy to grow from seed too making them a good budget garden idea.
"Aptly named, sunflowers love the sun and need around 8 hours of direct sunlight per day ideally. In fact, the large flowers will turn to follow the sun throughout the day. As your sunflower begins to grow tall, I recommend tying it to a supporting cane with string,” says plant expert at Hedges Direct Jamie Shipley.
Jamie Shipley is currently a Managing Director at Hedges Direct Ltd - a position he has held since 2018 - and has a robust skill and extensive knowledge of the Horticulture and Landscaping industries.
3. Leptospermum scoparium
The trick to adding vibrant hues to the garden is Leptospermum scoparium, or ‘Red Damask’. A dense medium-sized shrub which will flower from late spring.
"Those who love adding flashes of colour to their patio planting will adore this variety, as it provides deep pink-reddish flowers, set off beautifully against narrow, dark-green leaves, says Melanie Hick.
"Try these pops of bright colour against a backdrop of muted, warm hues,” suggests Melanie.
We like Leptospermum scoparium 'Red Damask' at Dobies.
4. Panicum virgatum
“Commonly known as switchgrass, this deciduous, perennial grass grows to 1.8m tall, ideal for adding ground coverage where needed. Not only that, but it adds some pretty colour too, with airy sprays of tiny, purple-green flowers produced from mid-summer to early autumn," says Melanie.
"The leaves turn a beautiful rich reddish-purple colour later in the year. Switchgrass is proof that low-maintenance garden plants can be both functional and beautiful. It originates from North America, where it is dominant in prairie land – ideal for a sustainable, climate-forward garden,” she says.
5. Achillea
"Most achilleas are hardy perennials,' says experienced gardening writer Graham Rice. "Their divided foliage is split two or three times into slender filaments. It makes a rich green mound from which, in summer, upright stems emerge, to carry flat heads of flowers so small you can hardly see that they are, basically, daisies.
"Plant in a sunny site, or one shaded by a fence or wall," he adds. "Achilleas are unhappy in overhead shade. They’ll grow well in most soils, although good drainage is definitely preferable – especially for grey-leaved varieties."
6. Bearded iris
“Iris germanicas (bearded iris) are eye-catching flowers with their unique petal structure and shape and make a great feature bloom in a hot and sunny environment. These blooms are perfect for south-facing gardens as they thrive in a sunlit spot where the soil is a little drier,” says Charlotte McGrattan.
The thick root system of border irises stores water, so they need full sun and free-draining soil. Irises attract bees and butterflies with their vibrant flowers. Although irises like well-drained soil, they can grow in sandy or clay soils as long as the drainage is good. Their adaptability makes them great for all kinds of gardens," says Jane Dobbs, garden expert at Allan's Gardeners.
Responsible for leading the gardening team at Allan's Gardeners, a landscaping and garden maintenance. She has 10 years experience as a gardener.
7. Lavender
"The lavender plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight every day, so it's perfect for sunny locations," says Jane Dobbs.
"Lavender is highly drought-tolerant once it's established. These plants for full sun will thrive in well-drained soil and can withstand dry conditions like gravel gardens. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant that does not require frequent watering."
"As a perennial, lavender will grow year after year, providing your garden with constant beauty and structure," says Jane.
8. Marigolds
Another sun lover which will bloom from late spring all the way up until the first frost in autumn. They're one of the most long blooming flowers you can have in your garden and they're perfect for beginners.
"The marigold plant repels aphids, nematodes, and certain types of beetles. You can protect your garden from these pests by planting them around vegetables and other plants," adds Jane Dobbs.
"Marigolds also release compounds that suppress harmful nematodes in soil, improving soil health. The resilience, vibrant colour, pest-deterrent properties, and ease of care make marigolds a great choice for sunny gardens," says Jane.
9. Salvia
Salvia loves full sun and it's great for sunny spots in your garden where other plants might struggle. It likes well-drained soil and can handle dry conditions" says Jane Dobbs.
"Salvia blooms from late spring to autumn, giving your garden a long-lasting colour. You'll find blue, purple, red, pink, and white flowers. Salvia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. Salvia has beautiful flowers and interesting foliage that adds texture and interest to any garden," Jane adds.
Some varieties like Salvia 'Amistad' at Crocus are scented and most types are easily propagated from cuttings or seeds.
10. Dahlia
"For dahlias to grow and bloom, they need full sun. They bloom for a long time, usually from mid-summer until frost. Having an extended blooming season ensures constant colour and interest in your garden," says Jane Dobbs.
"Dahlias grow pretty easily with the right conditions. Well-drained soil, regular watering, and a balanced fertiliser now and then are all they need."
"Whether it's pom-pom, cactus, or dinner plate varieties, dahlias produce big, showy flowers," says Jane.
11. Echinacea
“For a succession of bright colours to liven up a sunny spot in your garden, Echinacea is a great choice. These are herbaceous flowering plants that love the sun and are commonly called coneflowers," says garden designer and TrexPro Karl Harrison, from Karl Harrison Landscapes.
"Hot Lava or Sombrero Salsa red are the most vibrant and Purpurea “Double Decker” are the most fun, you can also have Pow Wow White which have white petals and a curious yellow centre."
"Make sure you water them twice a week and remove the dead flowers to encourage more to surprise you later in the season," says Karl.
12. Rudbeckias
Rudbeckia, or Black-eyed Susan as they are also known, have bright yellow or orange flowers with dark centres. They will grow best when planted in full sun and can be grown as part of your flowerbed schemes or in containers.
"Late season perennials, such as rudbeckia, are rich in pollen," says landscape designer Paul Hervey-Brookes. "It means that as well as providing flowers for you they can also be a valuable food source for pollinators."
13. Bay Laurel
“This dense evergreen shrub is bursting with fragrant glossy leaves and can thrive in a variety of conditions - including full sun. Bay Laurel originates from the Mediterranean region so it flourishes in the sun and is resilient against droughts," Jamie Shipley - gardening expert and Managing Director at Hedges Direct.
"The lush foliage - which shines in the sun - grows at a rate of 30-60 cm a year and is perfect for creating a privacy screen or fast-growing hedges in a Mediterranean-style garden, giving you more privacy and an attractive garden feature year-round. Remember, that if your Laurel is grown in full sun it will need regular watering especially when it’s still establishing," says Jamie.
14. Sedums
If you're looking for a drought-tolerant plant that is easy to look after, you can't go wrong with sedums. In these times of increasing temperatures and reduced rainfall, these sun-loving varieties are ideal for climate-friendly planting schemes.
Opt for a spot that drains well and gets plenty of sunshine. Sedums are good options for rock gardens, containers and even green roofs.
"The classic green roof plant is the sedum," says Country Homes & Interiors magazine. "Drought-tolerant, shallow-rooted, quick to spread and evergreen, these succulents are the ideal rooftop dweller."
15. Agapanthus
Agapanthus, or African lilies, have long, strappy leaves and tall stems topped with large flower heads (typically blue or white in colour) and they will reach around a metre in height.
These sun-worshippers work in a variety of settings, so can be planted in beds or containers, although they do prefer soil that is free draining.
As they flower from the middle of summer into autumn, they are perfect for adding some late-season colour and interest to your planting scheme.
According to the RHS, "too much shade, cold weather and lack of winter protection are common reasons for agapanthus to fail to flower."
FAQs
What is the easiest plant to grow in full sun?
Once established, these fuss-free plants for full sun can be more or less left alone. Remember that if these plants are grown in pots they will need regular watering.
- Agapanthus ‘Northern Star’: This deciduous variety is the hardiest, a real trooper, with large deep-blue heads appearing on tall stems. For the best flowers, plant in full sun
- Nepeta: A ground-covering plant with pretty blue flowers and grey foliage that prefers free-draining soil. Shear back after flowering
- Bergenia: Commonly called elephant’s ears, this tough ground-cover plant tolerates exposed spots, but does best in moist, well-drained soil. Spikes of magenta, pink or white flowers appear in spring
- Lavender: Grow sun-loving lavender in threes or as an informal hedge. Once established, additional watering is unnecessary. Trim in September
- Stipa gigantea: A must-have evergreen grass that makes a long-standing display in sun and free-draining soil
If you love our selection of plants for full sun you might be interested in filling out those dark and drab areas of the garden with the best shade plants.
EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.
