Full sun areas in New Zealand receive six or more hours of direct sunlight daily, often combined with wind, reflected heat, and limited soil moisture. These conditions are common in coastal gardens, open rural landscapes, hill slopes, and modern urban developments.
Many New Zealand native plants evolved in open environments, such as shrublands, braided river systems, alpine regions, and coastal cliffs. These species are well adapted to intense sunlight, seasonal drought, and nutrient-poor soils.
Shrubs form the backbone of full sun native gardens, providing structure, shelter, and habitat.
Corokia cotoneaster – Naturally found in dry, open habitats. Its wiry branching and small leaves reduce moisture loss, making it ideal for hot, sunny, and windy sites.
Corokia Bronze Knight and Corokia Red Wonder – Selected forms with strong colour and excellent drought tolerance once established.
Dodonaea viscosa (Green & Purple) – Extremely hardy shrub suited to full sun and dry clay or sandy soils. Deep roots allow it to cope with prolonged dry periods.
Olearia paniculata – A robust shrub or small tree adapted to exposed coastal and inland sites. Thick leaves protect against sun and wind.
Coprosma acerosa – Low-growing and sun loving, ideal for hot sites and coastal gardens.
These shrubs require minimal maintenance once established and respond well to light pruning.
Trees in full sun must tolerate heat, wind, and variable moisture levels.
Cordyline australis – One of the most adaptable NZ natives, thriving in full sun from wetlands to dry hillsides.
Sophora microphylla – Naturally found on sunny river terraces and open forest margins; deep roots and small leaves make it drought tolerant.
Plagianthus regius – Fast growing in sunny sites, particularly on clay or alluvial soils.
Pittosporum tenuifolium – Performs well in sun once established, offering shelter and structure.
These trees provide long-term canopy and help moderate harsh microclimates.
Structural plants thrive in open sun and provide texture and movement.
Phormium tenax – Tolerates full sun, drought, wind, and wet conditions; excellent for stabilising soils.
Austroderia richardii – A strong architectural grass for open landscapes.
Poa cita and Poa astonii – Naturally adapted to dry, sunny environments and poor soils.
Full sun gardens thrive when planted with species adapted to exposure. New Zealand native plants for full sun offer resilience, low water use, and long-term success.
