Best Evergreen Shrubs For Full Sun (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for some low-maintenance landscaping options that can provide your garden with year-round greenery, evergreen shrubs are an excellent choice. These plants are known for retaining their leaves all year long, providing shade and adding beauty to your yard. If you have an area of your garden that receives plenty of sunlight, you can opt for evergreen shrubs that are suitable for full sun.
Before buying any evergreen shrubs for full sun, there are several factors to consider. First, take note of the soil type and pH level of the area where you plan to plant them. Different evergreen shrubs have different requirements, so it’s best to choose ones that can thrive in the specific conditions of your garden. Second, consider the size and shape of the shrubs you want. If you want to create a low-maintenance garden, choosing compact shrubs that do not require regular pruning is a good choice. Lastly, think about whether the shrubs you want can provide any additional benefits, such as attracting pollinators or providing edible fruits or oils.
Do you want to know which evergreen shrubs are best for full sun? Are you curious about the benefits of having evergreen shrubs in your garden? Or maybe you’re unsure about how to care for these plants and want to learn more before making a purchase. Whatever your questions may be, this article will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision on the best evergreen shrubs for full sun.
10 Best Evergreen Shrubs For Full Sun
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Ideal for outdoor landscaping, adding color and texture to gardens, with evergreen foliage and pinkish-purple flowers in full sun.
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This product is ideal for outdoor landscaping with full sun exposure and provides beautiful pink blooms on an evergreen shrub.
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This product is ideal for adding year-round color and interest to outdoor spaces with its red double blooms and evergreen foliage.
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This product is ideal for adding color to outdoor spaces with its purple foliage and flowering shrub.
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Ideal for outdoor landscaping with low-growing and weeping purple foliage, pink blooms in full sun to part shade conditions.
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The product is ideal for landscaping and adding color to outdoor gardens with purple flowering shrubs that thrive in full sun.
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Ideal for outdoor landscaping in full sun to part shade areas, with attractive evergreen foliage.
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This product is ideal for outdoor areas that receive full sun and need evergreen shrubs with unique orange-green foliage.
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Ideal for outdoor gardening, providing a compact evergreen shrub with glossy foliage that thrives in full sun to part shade.
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The product is ideal for adding texture and evergreen foliage to outdoor spaces, thriving in full sun conditions.
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1. Autumn Twist Evergreen Shrub – Pink Bloom
The Autumn Sangria Encore Azalea is a reblooming evergreen shrub that stands out for its extended months of beauty. Unlike traditional azaleas that bloom for only a few weeks, the Autumn Sangria Encore Azalea blooms for months, providing a stunning display of white flowers peppered with purple spots. This fast-growing shrub is perfect for use as a foundational growth plant, and it grows well in mass, with a potential spread of 4.5' H x 4' W.
The Encore Azalea Autumn Twist is a pink flowering bush that is perfect for use as a focal point around the yard and garden to accentuate entries with its dense growth habit. This beautiful plant blooms white and pink flowers in the spring, summer, and fall, providing a host to several visitors, such as butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees.
Unlike other azaleas, Autumn Twist requires little pruning to retain its form, and it does not need to be deadheaded. If you must prune your azaleas, be sure to do so immediately after the spring flowering. Once well established, light pruning may facilitate growth and future flowering. Avoid pruning in the fall as it may remove the buds that have begun setting for the next blooming season.
The Autumn Twist is hardy in zones 6a-10 and is quite tolerant of outdoor conditions. This outdoor plant prefers full sun, but it can tolerate some shade. The healthiest blooms are achieved in ideal conditions, so if possible, plant it in full sun. In the early years, water regularly, especially during dry periods. These plants grow well in acidic soil with a maximum pH of 6.5, but they prefer lower, around 5.5.
The Autumn Twist ships as a 1-gallon potted plant with soil from the Alabama Gulf Coast. While it is not guaranteed to be in bloom upon arrival, it will provide a beautiful display of flowers for months once it has bloomed. Please note that this plant is unavailable to ship to Hawaii and Alaska.
2. Southern Pink Oleander: Full Sun Evergreen Shrub
The Live Oleander Plant from the Southern Living Plant Collection is a stunning addition to any garden. Please note that this plant is not available for shipping to Hawaii and Alaska. Upon arrival, the plant will be shipped in a pot with soil, ready to be planted in your preferred location.
This particular variety of Oleander, known as Nerium 'Planst', is well-suited for USDA zones 8-10. At maturity, it can reach an impressive height and width of 6-8 feet, making it a great option for creating a natural privacy screen or adding height to your garden landscape.
Please note that while this plant is a prolific bloomer, we cannot guarantee that it will be in bloom upon arrival. However, with proper care and maintenance, you can expect to enjoy its beautiful flowers throughout the growing season.
Your Live Oleander Plant will be shipped from the Alabama Gulf Coast, ensuring that it arrives in optimal condition. With its lush green foliage and elegant blooms, this plant is sure to be a showstopper in your garden. So why wait? Add the Live Oleander Plant to your cart today and start enjoying its beauty for years to come!
3. Dwarf Red Blooming Evergreen Shrub – Full Sun
The Encore Azalea Autumn Fire is a must-have for anyone looking for a reblooming evergreen shrub that will provide months of beauty. Unlike other azaleas that only bloom for a few weeks, the Autumn Fire produces deep red blooms that will keep coming back time and time again. This fast-growing shrub can reach a height of 2.5 feet and a width of 3 feet, making it an excellent foundational plant for any garden.
One of the standout features of the Autumn Fire is its dense growth habit, which makes it an ideal focal point for any yard or garden. The deep red blooms that appear in the spring, summer, and fall attract a variety of visitors, including butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees. And the best part? This azalea requires little pruning to maintain its shape and doesn't need to be deadheaded.
If you do decide to prune your Autumn Fire, it's best to do so immediately after the spring flowering. Once the plant is well-established, light pruning can help facilitate growth and flowering in future seasons. However, you should avoid pruning in the fall, as this can remove buds that have already started to set for the next blooming season.
The Autumn Fire is hardy in USDA zones 6a-10 and can tolerate part shade, although it prefers full sun for optimal blooms. When the plant is young, it's important to water regularly, especially during dry periods. Like all azaleas, the Autumn Fire thrives in acidic soil with a maximum pH of 6.5, but it prefers even lower levels, around 5.5.
This potted plant ships as a 2-gallon size from the Alabama Gulf Coast. While it's not guaranteed to be in bloom upon arrival, you can rest assured that this beautiful shrub will quickly become a standout feature in your garden. Please note that this plant is not available for shipping to Hawaii and Alaska.
4. Purple Pixie: Low-Weeping Evergreen Shrub
The Loropetalum Chinese PEACK pp#18441 is a striking plant that will add a pop of color to any garden. This plant is not available in Hawaii and Alaska and will be shipped in a pot with soil. It is important to note that this plant thrives in USDA zones 7-10 and can grow up to 1-2 feet in height and 3-4 feet in width.
One of the most attractive features of the Loropetalum Chinese PEACK pp#18441 is its vibrant pink ribbon blooms, which make it an eye-catching addition to any landscape. Additionally, the foliage of this plant stays purple all year, making it a great choice for those who want to add some color to their garden even in the winter months.
The Loropetalum Chinese PEACK pp#18441 is part of the Southern Living Plant Collection, which is known for its hardy and beautiful plants that are ideal for southern gardens. To ensure that this plant thrives, it is recommended to plant it in well-conditioned soil and provide direct access to sunlight. It is also important to mulch the bed and water the plant 3-4 times a week.
5. Autumn Royalty Purple Shrub – Full Sun Outdoor Plant
The Encore Azalea Autumn Royalty is a stunning evergreen shrub that offers reblooming purple flowers for months instead of weeks. This fast-growing plant can reach sizes of 4.5' W x 4' H, making it an excellent foundational growth plant that thrives in mass plantings.
The deep pink flowers of the Autumn Royalty make for a fantastic focal point around the yard and garden, and their dense growth habit accentuates entries beautifully. These beautiful blooms attract several visitors, including butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees, making it a perfect addition to any garden.
One of the best features of the Autumn Royalty is that it requires little pruning to retain its form and does not need to be deadheaded. However, if you choose to prune it, be sure to do so immediately after the spring flowering. Once established, light pruning may facilitate growth and flowering in future seasons. It is important to avoid pruning in the fall, as doing so will remove buds that have begun setting for the next blooming season.
This hardy outdoor plant is quite tolerant and can live in full sun, but it prefers partial shade if possible for optimal blooms. The Autumn Royalty is hardy in zones 6-10 and can live in acidic soil with a maximum pH of 6.5, but it prefers lower, around 5.5. In the early years, it is essential to water regularly, especially during dry periods.
Shipped as a 1-gallon potted plant with soil from the Alabama Gulf Coast, the Autumn Royalty is not guaranteed to be in bloom on arrival. It is important to note that this plant is unavailable to ship to Hawaii and Alaska.
6. Glossy Evergreen Shrub For Southern Living.
The Ternstroemia gymnanthera Sotall PP#13680, from the Southern Living Plant Collection, is a stunning addition to any garden or landscape. This plant is not available in Hawaii and Alaska, and ships in a pot with soil for your convenience.
With a mature size of 15-20 feet in height and 5-6 feet in width, this plant is perfect for those looking to add height and depth to their garden. It is hardy in USDA Zones 7-10, making it a great option for those living in these regions.
The Ternstroemia gymnanthera Sotall is a beautiful evergreen plant that produces small, fragrant, white flowers in the spring. These flowers give way to small, red berries that attract birds and other wildlife to your garden. The plant's foliage is a deep green color and has a waxy texture that adds to its overall appeal.
This plant is relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a variety of soil types. It prefers full sun to partial shade and requires moderate watering. With proper care, the Ternstroemia gymnanthera Sotall can live for many years and provide you with stunning beauty and a unique touch to your landscape.
7. Southern Living Fire Chief Evergreen Shrub
Introducing the Fire Chief Arborvitae from Southern Living, a stunning evergreen shrub known for its vibrant foliage that remains colorful year-round. This plant is expected to mature between 2-4 feet in height and width, showcasing moderately woven, needle-like foliage that boasts bright golden spring colors and deep red hues during fall.
The Fire Chief Arborvitae is a showstopper, commanding attention with its striking foliage during the end of summer and beginning of fall. It's perfect for lining walkways or creating low-growing privacy hedges along patios. This arborvitae's unique and showy foliage also makes it an excellent choice for container growing near entryways, serving as an attention-grabber and conversation starter. Additionally, birds, white-tailed deer, and rabbits all show interest in these conifers.
This sun-loving and compact evergreen thrives in full sun during the day with just a touch of late-day dappled sunlight. Its year-round color makes it versatile for a variety of uses. Unlike other arborvitae shrubs and boxwoods, the Fire Chief Arborvitae does not require pruning to maintain its compact, rounded form.
This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5a-8b and ships as a 2.5 quart potted plant with soil from the Alabama Gulf Coast. Customers should note that this plant is unavailable for shipping to Hawaii and Alaska. Upon receiving the American Arborvitae, it's important to water it heavily, deeply watering two times per week during the first growing season to promote healthy root formation.
8. Glossy Evergreen Shrub For Southern Gardens.
The Bronze Beauty Cleyera is a compact and charming evergreen plant that can enhance the beauty of your garden. Despite its small size, it can have a large impact, thanks to its year-round interest and rich bronze tones. Once fully mature, it reaches heights of 8-10' and widths of 5-6', making it the most petite Cleyera.
This versatile plant can be used for various purposes such as hedges, mass plantings, container growing, or as a specimen. It is an evergreen plant, which means it retains its foliage all year round, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a plant that provides year-round interest.
To ensure the best growth conditions, the Bronze Beauty Cleyera prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun. The soil should be rich, moisture-retaining, and acidic. Alkaline soil may cause a reduction in the bronze and green foliage, leading to foliage with yellow tones. During the first growing season, watering the Cleyera 2-3 times per week is recommended. Once established, it is a water-wise plant and requires supplementary watering only during times of extreme drought.
The Bronze Beauty Cleyera is hardy in USDA Zones 7-10 and prefers partial shade. It is essential to water the plant thoroughly twice a week until established, after which it will only require watering once a week. Over-watering and alkaline soil are not tolerable for this plant.
This plant ships as a 3-gallon potted plant with soil from the Alabama Gulf Coast. It is crucial to note that the plant is not guaranteed to be in bloom on arrival. Unfortunately, this plant is unavailable for shipping to Hawaii and Alaska.
9. Compact Sun-Shrub: Soft Touch Holly
The Soft Touch Holly is a delightful and versatile shrub that is an excellent addition to any garden or landscape. With its dense and soft glossy green foliage, this shrub boasts a round growth habit and reaches a mature size of 2-3' H x 3-4' W. It is a fast-growing shrub that is often used to maintain green areas in home gardens and landscapes around the world.
In the spring, the Soft Touch Holly blooms small, very white flowers, and once the cooler weather arrives, it bears glossy blackberry-like fruits. This attractive feature is a magnet for birds and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy watching these beautiful creatures.
Soft Touch Hollies tolerate pruning well, making it easy to keep them at a certain size or shape. While heavy pruning is best reserved for late winter or early spring, you can let the shrub grow naturally with no pruning as well.
The Soft Touch Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 6a-8b, making it a great option for those living in those areas. For a healthy shrub, it is best to place it where it can receive full sunlight, although it will also do well in a location where it receives partial shade at certain times of the day. During the first few months, it is advisable to water the shrub several times a week, and once it takes root, you can begin to water less.
The Soft Touch Holly is shipped as a 2.5-gallon potted plant with soil from the Alabama Gulf Coast. Please note that this plant is not guaranteed to be in bloom on arrival. Unfortunately, this plant is unavailable to ship to Hawaii and Alaska.
Best Evergreen Shrubs For Full Sun FAQs
Are there any evergreen shrubs that can be grown in full sun and also attract wildlife?
Yes, there are several evergreen shrubs that can be grown in full sun and also attract wildlife. One popular option is the American Holly (Ilex opaca), which produces bright red berries that attract birds during the winter months. Another option is the Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera), which produces small blue berries that also attract birds. The Sweet Bay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana) is another evergreen shrub that produces fragrant white flowers in the summer and provides habitat for birds and other wildlife. The Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana) is also an evergreen shrub that produces blue berries that attract birds and other wildlife. It's important to choose native species when selecting plants to attract wildlife, as they are best adapted to the local environment and provide the most benefit to wildlife. Additionally, providing a variety of plant species with different bloom times and fruiting periods will help ensure that wildlife have a consistent food source throughout the year.
Are there any evergreen shrubs that produce flowers in full sun?
Yes, there are several evergreen shrubs that can produce flowers in full sun. Here are some examples:
1. Camellia – This beautiful shrub produces large, showy flowers in shades of pink, red, and white. It prefers partial to full sun and well-drained soil.
2. Azalea – Azaleas are known for their vibrant, colorful flowers that bloom in the spring. They prefer partial to full sun and acidic soil.
3. Gardenia – The fragrant, white flowers of the gardenia are a popular choice for many gardeners. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
4. Oleander – This tough shrub produces clusters of colorful, funnel-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, and red. It can tolerate full sun and drought conditions.
5. Viburnum – The viburnum shrub produces clusters of fragrant, white or pink flowers in the spring. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
These are just a few examples of evergreen shrubs that can produce flowers in full sun. When choosing a shrub for your garden, be sure to consider its specific growing requirements and the climate in your area.
What are the best evergreen shrubs for creating privacy in a sunny yard?
If you are looking to create privacy in a sunny yard, evergreen shrubs are a great option as they retain their foliage year-round. Some of the best evergreen shrubs for creating privacy in a sunny yard include:
1. Boxwood: Boxwood is a popular choice for creating formal hedges in sunny yards due to its dense foliage and ability to be pruned into various shapes.
2. Holly: Holly shrubs offer year-round privacy with their spiny leaves and red berries in the winter. They also require minimal maintenance.
3. Privet: Privet is a fast-growing shrub that can reach up to 15 feet tall, making it an excellent choice for creating a dense privacy screen.
4. Arborvitae: Arborvitae is a tall evergreen shrub that can grow up to 30 feet tall, making it an ideal choice for large properties. It also has a narrow, conical shape that makes it perfect for creating a privacy hedge.
5. Juniper: Juniper shrubs come in a variety of sizes and shapes, making them a versatile option for creating privacy in a sunny yard. They also have a pleasant scent and require minimal maintenance.
Overall, the best evergreen shrub for creating privacy in a sunny yard will depend on your specific needs and preferences, including the size of your yard and the level of maintenance you are willing to commit to.
What are the most drought-tolerant evergreen shrubs for full sun?
There are several evergreen shrubs that can tolerate drought and full sun conditions. One of the most popular is the boxwood, which is a slow-growing shrub that can withstand heat, drought, and cold weather. Another option is the yucca, which has thick, waxy leaves that help it retain moisture. It's also highly adaptable to different soil types and can thrive in rocky areas. The oleander is another evergreen shrub that is drought-tolerant and can handle full sun exposure. It produces beautiful blooms in shades of pink, red, and white. Other options include the juniper, which is highly drought-resistant and can thrive in poor soil conditions, and the lavender, which is not only drought-tolerant but also produces fragrant blooms. Ultimately, the best evergreen shrub for your full sun garden will depend on your specific climate and soil conditions, so it's important to do your research and choose a plant that is well-suited to your region.
What are the most popular evergreen shrubs for full sun?
When it comes to choosing the most popular evergreen shrubs for full sun, there are several options available that can add beauty and elegance to your landscape. One of the most popular evergreen shrubs for full sun is Boxwood, which is known for its small, glossy green leaves and dense growth habit. Another popular option is the Dwarf Alberta Spruce, which has a pyramidal shape and soft, green needles that add a touch of elegance to any garden.
Other popular evergreen shrubs for full sun include the Japanese Pieris, with its beautiful pink or white flowers and glossy green leaves, and the Heavenly Bamboo, which features delicate leaves and bright red berries that add color to any landscape. Additionally, the Indian Hawthorn is another great option that offers beautiful pink or white flowers and attractive foliage.
Overall, there are many different types of evergreen shrubs that thrive in full sun, and selecting the right one for your landscape will depend on your personal preferences and the specific growing conditions of your garden.
What is the best way to care for evergreen shrubs in full sun?
Evergreen shrubs are a great addition to any garden, providing year-round foliage and texture. If you have evergreen shrubs in full sun, it's important to care for them properly to ensure they stay healthy and vibrant. Here are some tips for taking care of evergreen shrubs in full sun:
1. Watering: Evergreen shrubs in full sun require regular watering, especially during hot summer months. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
2. Mulching: Use a layer of mulch around the base of your shrub to help keep the soil moist and cool.
3. Pruning: Prune your evergreen shrubs in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and promote healthy growth.
4. Fertilizing: Fertilize your shrubs in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer to provide the nutrients they need to thrive.
5. Protection: Protect your evergreen shrubs from harsh winter winds by wrapping them in burlap or covering them with a windbreak.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your evergreen shrubs healthy and beautiful year-round.
What size and shape of evergreen shrubs are best suited for full sun areas?
Evergreen shrubs are a great choice for full-sun areas as they can provide year-round greenery and structure to your garden. The size and shape of shrubs you select should depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some options to consider:
1. Boxwood: This classic shrub is available in various sizes and shapes, from small, rounded cultivars to tall, columnar varieties. It can be pruned into formal shapes like spheres or hedges, or left to grow in a more natural, informal way.
2. Juniper: Junipers are a reliable choice for full-sun areas as they are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. They come in a range of sizes, from low-growing ground covers to tall, narrow forms.
3. Yew: Yews are another versatile evergreen shrub that can be pruned into various shapes and sizes, from small balls to tall columns. They prefer well-drained soil and can tolerate full sun if given adequate moisture.
4. Holly: Holly shrubs are known for their glossy, spiky leaves and bright red berries. They can be trimmed into formal shapes or left to grow naturally. Some varieties, like the dwarf Japanese holly, are well-suited for small gardens or container planting.
When selecting evergreen shrubs for full-sun areas, be sure to consider their mature size and growth rate, as well as their soil and moisture requirements.
Which evergreen shrubs have the most vibrant foliage in full sun?
There are several evergreen shrubs that can add vibrant foliage to your garden in full sun. One such shrub is the Euonymus fortunei, also known as the wintercreeper. This shrub has variegated leaves that are green and gold in color, creating a striking visual effect in full sun. Another option is the Photinia x fraseri, commonly referred to as the red tip photinia. This shrub has glossy, dark green leaves that turn a vibrant red color in the spring. The Nandina domestica, also known as heavenly bamboo, is another evergreen shrub that can add visual interest to your garden with its bright red foliage. Lastly, the Loropetalum chinense, or Chinese fringe flower, has deep burgundy leaves that contrast beautifully with its pink flowers. These are just a few examples of evergreen shrubs that can bring vibrant foliage to your garden in full sun.
Which evergreen shrubs require the least amount of maintenance in full sun?
There are several evergreen shrubs that require minimal maintenance in full sun. One of the most popular is the Boxwood shrub. This shrub requires very little pruning and is extremely drought tolerant. It also grows well in a variety of soil types and can tolerate full sun or partial shade. Another low-maintenance evergreen shrub is the Dwarf Japanese Garden Juniper. This shrub is extremely hardy and can withstand harsh weather conditions. It also grows slowly, which means that it requires minimal pruning. Lastly, the Heavenly Bamboo is another evergreen shrub that is easy to maintain. It is drought tolerant and grows well in full sun. It also produces beautiful red berries in the fall, which adds to its appeal. Overall, these shrubs are great options for those who want a low-maintenance yet beautiful landscape.
Which evergreen shrubs thrive in hot and arid climates?
There are several evergreen shrubs that can thrive in hot and arid climates. One popular option is the desert rose, also known as Adenium obesum. This shrub produces vibrant flowers and has a unique, swollen trunk that stores water. Another option is the oleander, which is a highly durable shrub that can withstand extreme heat and drought conditions. The Texas sage, also called Leucophyllum frutescens, is another evergreen shrub that is known for its hardiness in hot and dry climates. It produces small purple flowers and can grow up to eight feet tall. Other options include the bougainvillea, the creosote bush, and the Mediterranean fan palm. When selecting evergreen shrubs for hot and arid climates, it is important to consider factors such as water storage capabilities and heat tolerance. Proper care and maintenance are also essential for ensuring that these shrubs thrive in these challenging conditions.
