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NZ Native Plants for Full Sun

What to Grow, Where, and Why

Full sun conditions — areas that receive 6+ hours of direct sunlight per day — can be hot, dry, and exposed. Native plants adapted to these bright conditions often have small or waxy leaves, deep roots, and strong resilience to heat and drought. These species thrive where many others struggle, offering vibrant, hardy options for sunny gardens or open landscapes.

What Makes Full Sun Sites Unique

  • Sunlight: Intense UV exposure, especially during summer.

  • Heat: Higher soil and air temperatures can increase water loss.

  • Soil: Often drier and quicker draining than shaded areas.

  • Exposure: Can be windy or open, with little natural shelter.

What to Plant in Full Sun Areas

Site Type

Best Plant Choices

Why These Work

Sunny garden beds & borders

Leptospermum scoparium (Mānuka), Coprosma acerosa, Hebe stricta, Austroderia richardii

Compact shrubs and grasses with sun- and drought-tolerant traits.

Dry, open hillsides

Kunzea ericoides (Kānuka), Ozothamnus leptophyllus (Tauhinu), Poa cita (Silver tussock)

Thrive in exposed, sun-drenched slopes; stabilise soil and require little watering.

Sunny coastal areas

Disphyma australe, Coprosma repens, Muehlenbeckia astonii

Salt- and sun-tolerant plants for full sun and windy, sandy environments.

 

Signature Full Sun Native Plants

  • Leptospermum scoparium (Mānuka) – A hardy shrub with fragrant flowers, perfect for sunny, well-drained sites.

  • Ozothamnus leptophyllus (Tauhinu) – Silvery, drought-tolerant shrub ideal for hot slopes and full sun exposure.

  • Poa cita (Silver Tussock) – Attractive grass for dry, open landscapes; low-maintenance and sun-loving.

  • Hebe stricta – Upright, easy-care shrub with purple or white flowers; great for sunny borders.

  • Coprosma acerosa – Low-growing, hardy groundcover with wiry stems and sun-loving foliage.

Planting Tips for Full Sun

Tip

Advice

Planting time

Early autumn or spring is best — avoid peak summer unless irrigation is available.

Soil preparation

Ensure good drainage; amend heavy soils with sand or compost if needed.

Mulching

Apply mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and reduce root stress from heat.

Watering

Water regularly during establishment; many sun-loving natives need little water once mature.

Spacing

Allow airflow between plants to avoid heat stress and fungal issues.

 

Why Choose Natives for Full Sun?

  • Naturally adapted to high UV and dry soils

  • Require minimal maintenance once established

  • Attract native pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds

  • Stabilise soil on exposed slopes or open ground

  • Blend beautifully into natural or native-themes garden designs