In full sun, plant failure often comes from moisture stress and overheating. Native plants with small leaves, thick cuticles, and deep roots cope far better than many exotics.
Cordyline Purple Tower – Sun-loving cultivars that provide strong vertical form.
Pittosporum eugenioides – Adaptable and reliable in open conditions.
Corokia Buddleoides – Dense, sun-tolerant shrubs for wind protection.
Coprosma rugosa – Naturally adapted to open, dry sites.
Olearia haastii – Silver foliage reflects sunlight and reduces heat stress.
Libertia ixiodes and Libertia peregrinans – Tolerate sun and dry soils, perfect for borders.
Leptinella squalida – Forms dense mats in open sunny areas.
Acaena inermis Purple – Excellent soil cover in exposed sites.
Most NZ native plants for full sun are drought tolerant once established. Deep watering during the first year encourages strong root development. Mulching is essential to reduce evaporation.
Low-maintenance full sun gardens rely on tough, well-adapted natives that thrive with minimal input.
