Want to create a show-stopping container garden that thrives in full sun?
These bold, colorful plants can handle the heat while adding non-stop beauty to patios, balconies, and porches.
Here are some stunning options to brighten up any sunny space!
Sun & Heat-Tolerant Flowers and Foliage for Stunning Containers
1. Summer Snapdragon
Graceful spikes of orchid-like flowers bloom continuously, even in the hottest weather.
Thriving in humid conditions, this sun-loving beauty stands tall in containers without flopping.
With its long-lasting blooms and minimal care needs, it’s a perfect choice for vibrant patio displays.
- USDA Growing Zones: 9–11 (grown as an annual in cooler zones)
- Average Mature Size: 12–24 inches tall, 12–18 inches wide
- Flowers: Yes, pink, purple, white, blue
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Angelonia angustifolia
2. Petunia
Vibrant trumpet-shaped blooms cover these plants from spring to frost with minimal effort.
Regular deadheading keeps the flowers coming, while trailing varieties create a stunning cascade over pots.
Available in nearly every color, they easily brighten up any sunny patio or balcony.
- USDA Growing Zones: 9–11 (grown as an annual in most zones)
- Average Mature Size: 6–12 inches tall, 12–24 inches wide
- Flowers: Yes, pink, purple, white, red, yellow, blue
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Petunia spp.
3. Geranium
Clusters of bold, long-lasting flowers pair perfectly with their thick, fragrant foliage.
Thriving in heat and sun, these classic container plants need little water once established.
Upright or trailing varieties offer versatility in mixed arrangements or solo plantings.
- USDA Growing Zones: 10–11 (grown as an annual in cooler zones)
- Average Mature Size: 12–24 inches tall, 12–18 inches wide
- Flowers: Yes, red, pink, white, purple, orange
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Pelargonium spp.
4. Moss Rose
Succulent-like foliage and bright, delicate blooms make this a standout in dry, sunny locations.
Flowers open during the day and close at night, adding an extra touch of charm.
Perfect for hanging baskets and containers, it spills gracefully over the edges.
- USDA Growing Zones: 10–11 (grown as an annual in most zones)
- Average Mature Size: 4–8 inches tall, 12–24 inches wide
- Flowers: Yes, pink, red, yellow, orange, white
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Portulaca grandiflora
5. Million Bells
Small but mighty, these bell-shaped flowers bloom in abundance without the need for deadheading.
Trailing stems create a waterfall of color, making them ideal for hanging baskets and tall planters.
Thrives in the heat while maintaining a fresh, vibrant look all season long.
- USDA Growing Zones: 9–11 (grown as an annual in most zones)
- Average Mature Size: 6–12 inches tall, 12–24 inches wide
- Flowers: Yes, pink, purple, yellow, red, orange, white
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Calibrachoa spp.
6. Vervain
Delicate clusters of tiny flowers bloom continuously, providing color even in the hottest months.
Drought tolerance and fast-growing habits make it a fuss-free choice for containers.
Sprawling or trailing varieties add movement and texture to mixed arrangements.
- USDA Growing Zones: 7–11 (grown as an annual in cooler zones)
- Average Mature Size: 6–12 inches tall, 12–36 inches wide
- Flowers: Yes, purple, pink, red, white, blue
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Verbena spp.
7. Zinnia
Cheerful blooms in bright, bold colors thrive even in intense summer heat.
Low-maintenance and highly resistant to pests, they are a perfect addition to sunny container gardens.
Compact varieties stay tidy in pots, while taller ones make stunning cut flowers.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3–10 (grown as an annual)
- Average Mature Size: 6 inches–4 feet tall, 6–18 inches wide
- Flowers: Yes, pink, red, orange, yellow, white, purple
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Zinnia elegans
8. Salvia
Striking spikes of flowers stand tall above fragrant foliage, attracting pollinators all summer long.
Tolerant of heat and drought, these hardy plants are as tough as they are beautiful.
Whether in rich blues, reds, or purples, they add a vertical element to container designs.
- USDA Growing Zones: 5–10 (varies by species)
- Average Mature Size: 12–36 inches tall, 12–24 inches wide
- Flowers: Yes, red, purple, blue, white, pink
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Salvia spp.
9. Stonecrop
Fleshy, drought-resistant leaves store water, making this an excellent choice for low-maintenance container gardens.
Tiny star-like flowers appear in late summer, adding even more interest.
Spreading or upright varieties offer different textures and shapes to suit any space.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3–10 (varies by species)
- Average Mature Size: 6–24 inches tall, 12–24 inches wide
- Flowers: Yes, pink, yellow, red, white
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Sedum spp.
10. Celosia
Flame-like or feathery blooms bring dramatic texture and vibrant hues to containers.
Thriving in heat and humidity, these plants maintain their bold color for months.
Compact varieties stay neat in pots, while taller types create eye-catching focal points.
- USDA Growing Zones: 9–11 (grown as an annual in most zones)
- Average Mature Size: 6 inches–3 feet tall, 6–18 inches wide
- Flowers: Yes, red, orange, yellow, pink, purple
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Celosia argentea
11. Canna Lily
Lush, tropical foliage pairs with towering blooms to create a bold statement in containers.
Heat-loving and sun-craving, these plants thrive in warm climates and provide an exotic touch.
Vibrant flowers contrast beautifully with their large, banana-like leaves.
- USDA Growing Zones: 8–11 (grown as an annual in cooler zones)
- Average Mature Size: 2–6 feet tall, 1–3 feet wide
- Flowers: Yes, red, orange, yellow, pink
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Canna indica
12. Gazania
Daisy-like blooms open in full sunlight, closing in the evening or on cloudy days.
Drought resistance and compact growth make this a great option for hot, dry conditions.
Striking color patterns on the petals add a unique touch to any container garden.
- USDA Growing Zones: 9–11 (grown as an annual in cooler zones)
- Average Mature Size: 6–12 inches tall, 6–12 inches wide
- Flowers: Yes, yellow, orange, pink, white, red
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Gazania rigens
13. Black-Eyed Susan
Golden-yellow petals with dark centers create a cheerful, sun-loving display.
Thriving in heat and drought, these hardy flowers bloom for months with minimal care.
Upright and compact, they make a bold statement in containers or mixed arrangements.
- USDA Growing Zones: 3–9
- Average Mature Size: 1–3 feet tall, 1–2 feet wide
- Flowers: Yes, yellow with dark brown or black centers
- Thrives In: Full Sun
- Botanical Name: Rudbeckia hirta
