Got a sunny spot that’s begging for a burst of color? Hanging baskets can turn any porch, patio, or pergola into a show-stopping space—if you choose the right plants. While many folks worry that the blazing sun will scorch their blooms, the truth is, some plants thrive under all that sunshine.
From cascading flowers to trailing greens, here are 10 stunning plants that don’t just survive in full sun—they absolutely shine in it.
1. Petunias
Why they love the sun: Petunias are sun worshippers. Give them 6+ hours of sunlight, and they’ll explode with color.
What makes them great: With ruffled petals in nearly every color imaginable—purple, pink, red, white, even striped—they’re a classic choice for sunny hanging baskets. Bonus: Many varieties are self-cleaning, so you won’t have to deadhead constantly.
Pro tip: Use slow-release fertilizer in your potting mix for non-stop blooms.
2. Calibrachoa (Million Bells)
Why they love the sun: These mini petunia lookalikes are heat-tolerant and bloom like crazy all summer long.
What makes them great: They trail beautifully, filling your basket with a waterfall of vibrant color. Plus, they’re low-maintenance and don’t need much fussing.
Pro tip: Water regularly, but don’t let the soil get soggy—Calibrachoa hates wet feet.
3. Lantana
Why they love the sun: Lantana can handle the hottest, sunniest spots without blinking.
What makes them great: Besides their bold, multi-colored clusters of flowers, these tough plants attract butterflies like magnets. They’re also drought-tolerant once established.
Pro tip: Trim back leggy stems to keep your basket full and tidy.
4. Verbena
Why they love the sun: Verbena flourishes under direct sunlight and heat, blooming non-stop from spring to frost.
What makes them great: Their delicate clusters come in pinks, purples, reds, and white. They trail nicely, too, adding a soft, romantic touch to any basket.
Pro tip: Give them a midseason haircut to encourage fresh new blooms.
5. Portulaca (Moss Rose)
Why they love the sun: This plant doesn’t just love full sun—it needs it to bloom.
What makes them great: These succulent beauties bloom in hot pink, orange, yellow, and red. They’re drought-resistant, perfect for hot climates, and have a low, spilling habit ideal for baskets.
Pro tip: Don’t overwater—Portulaca stores moisture in its fleshy leaves.
6. Trailing Geraniums (Ivy Geraniums)
Why they love the sun: Ivy geraniums perform best with plenty of sun and good air circulation.
What makes them great: Big, showy blooms spill over the edge of hanging baskets with elegant vines. They add a touch of old-world charm to patios and balconies.
Pro tip: Feed them every couple of weeks to keep those blooms coming.
7. Bacopa
Why they love the sun: Bacopa loves full sun, though it can handle a bit of afternoon shade in super-hot regions.
What makes them great: Its dainty white, lavender, or blue flowers cover the plant like confetti. It trails beautifully and blends well with bolder plants in mixed baskets.
Pro tip: Don’t let the soil dry out completely—Bacopa needs consistent moisture.
8. Nasturtiums
Why they love the sun: These cheerful annuals adore sunny spots and don’t mind a little heat.
What makes them great: Not only are they pretty, with vibrant red, yellow, or orange blooms, but they’re also edible! The peppery leaves and flowers add a spicy kick to salads.
Pro tip: Avoid over-fertilizing—nasturtiums bloom better in lean soil.
9. Sweet Alyssum
Why they love the sun: Alyssum thrives in sun-drenched baskets and handles heat surprisingly well.
What makes them great: These tiny, honey-scented flowers form delicate clouds of white, lavender, or pink. They’re perfect as a filler or soft trailing edge in combo baskets.
Pro tip: Give them a trim midseason to keep them from getting leggy.
10. Scaevola (Fan Flower)
Why they love the sun: Originating from Australia, Scaevola is a sun-loving survivor that handles heat and humidity like a champ.
What makes them great: Unique fan-shaped flowers in blue, purple, or white spread out like little fans across the stems. The trailing habit adds texture and visual interest to baskets.
Pro tip: Water regularly, and don’t let the roots dry out completely.
Tips for Hanging Basket Success in Full Sun
Before you plant, keep these quick tips in mind:
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Use quality potting mix – Lightweight, moisture-retaining, and nutrient-rich.
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Water often – Full sun dries out baskets fast. Check daily in hot weather.
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Fertilize regularly – Full-sun plants are hungry bloomers.
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Deadhead when needed – Some plants (like geraniums) bloom better when spent flowers are removed.
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Rotate baskets – If one side starts looking tired, a simple turn can even things out.
Final Thoughts
Hanging baskets in full sun don’t have to be a gamble. In fact, with the right plants, you’ll have an overflowing masterpiece that turns heads all summer long. Whether you go for bold blooms like petunias and lantana or soft trails of sweet alyssum and bacopa, the key is picking sun-loving stars that were made for the spotlight.
So go ahead—grab your baskets, fill them up, and let the sunshine do its thing!