Social Moms

Best Small Shrubs For Full Sun (2024 Update)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you’re looking for small shrubs to add to your garden, there are several factors you should consider before making a purchase. One of the most important considerations is the amount of sunlight the shrub requires. If you have an area in your garden that receives full sun, you’ll want to choose a shrub that can thrive in these conditions. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best small shrubs for full sun and what you need to know before adding them to your garden.

Before you buy a shrub for your garden, it’s important to consider the size of the plant, soil conditions, and water requirements. You’ll also want to think about whether the shrub is evergreen or deciduous, as well as its growth habit and maintenance needs. When choosing a shrub for full sun, you’ll want to select a species that can withstand the heat and sunlight, and won't require excessive amounts of water.

When considering small shrubs for full sun, here are a few questions to keep in mind: What are the light and soil requirements for this species? What is the mature size of the plant? Will it require pruning or other maintenance? Are there any common pests or diseases that affect this shrub? By doing your research and selecting the right shrubs for your garden, you can create a beautiful and thriving landscape that will enhance your outdoor space for years to come.

10 Best Small Shrubs For Full Sun

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for outdoor landscaping in full sun to part shade environments with its low-growing and weeping evergreen shrub characteristics.
2
This plant is ideal for adding color and texture to outdoor landscapes with its pink blooms and purple foliage.
3
Ideal for outdoor landscaping, pink flowering shrub lovers, full sun areas, and those seeking reblooming plants.
4
The product is ideal for outdoor landscaping with fragrant white flowers that bloom throughout the year in full sun.
5
The product is ideal for outdoor landscaping, specifically in full sun areas, and adds vibrant pink flowers to the space.
6
The product is ideal for white flowering shrubs that can thrive in full sun, are evergreen, and can live perennials.
7
It is an ideal plant for outdoor landscaping with pink blooms, evergreen leaves, and full sun exposure.
8
Ideal for adding a pop of color to any outdoor space with its bubble-gum pink double-form blooms.
9
The product is ideal for outdoor landscaping and adding white blooms to a garden in full sun.
10
This product is ideal for outdoor landscaping due to its evergreen shrub with green and white foliage that thrives in full sun.
The product is ideal for outdoor landscaping in full sun to part shade environments with its low-growing and weeping evergreen shrub characteristics.
This plant is ideal for adding color and texture to outdoor landscapes with its pink blooms and purple foliage.
Ideal for outdoor landscaping, pink flowering shrub lovers, full sun areas, and those seeking reblooming plants.
The product is ideal for outdoor landscaping with fragrant white flowers that bloom throughout the year in full sun.
The product is ideal for outdoor landscaping, specifically in full sun areas, and adds vibrant pink flowers to the space.
The product is ideal for white flowering shrubs that can thrive in full sun, are evergreen, and can live perennials.
It is an ideal plant for outdoor landscaping with pink blooms, evergreen leaves, and full sun exposure.
Ideal for adding a pop of color to any outdoor space with its bubble-gum pink double-form blooms.
The product is ideal for outdoor landscaping and adding white blooms to a garden in full sun.
This product is ideal for outdoor landscaping due to its evergreen shrub with green and white foliage that thrives in full sun.

1. Southern Living's Purple Pixie: Colorful Low-Growing Shrub

The Loropetalum chinense 'Peack' PP18441 is a must-have for any gardening enthusiast. This beautiful plant is unfortunately unavailable in Hawaii and Alaska, but can be shipped to other locations in a pot with soil for easy planting.

This particular plant is well-suited for USDA Zones 7-10, making it a great addition to gardens in those regions. It has a mature size of 1-2 feet in height and 4-5 feet in width, making it a great option for adding texture and color to any landscape.

The Loropetalum chinense 'Peack' PP18441 is part of the Southern Living Plant Collection, a trusted brand known for their high-quality plants. This particular variety has stunning pink blooms that contrast beautifully with its dark foliage.

2. Evergreen Beauty: Pink Blooming Chinese Fringe Shrub

Looking for a stunning addition to your garden or landscape? Check out the Loropetalum chinense Ruby from Plants by Mail! With its gorgeous reddish-purple foliage and delicate pink flowers, this plant is sure to turn heads.

Please note that this item is currently unavailable in Hawaii and Alaska. The Loropetalum chinense Ruby will arrive in a pot with soil, ready to be planted in your desired location.

This plant is suitable for USDA Zones 7-10, and can reach a mature size of 4-5' H x 4-5' W. It is a hardy and low-maintenance option for those looking to add some color and texture to their outdoor space.

Plants by Mail is committed to providing high-quality plants and exceptional customer service. Order your Loropetalum chinense Ruby today and enjoy the beauty it brings to your garden for years to come.

3. Pink Reblooming Evergreen Shrub For Outdoor Living.

The Encore Azalea Autumn Princess is an evergreen shrub that is sure to provide a vibrant and visually pleasing addition to any garden. With its salmon pink flowers and deep green foliage, this plant stays beautiful all year long. The foliage even gets darker in cooler months with hues of burgundy, adding to its aesthetics. One of Autumn Princess's unique features is that it reblooms in the spring, summer, and fall, providing long-lasting blooms.

This plant is commonly used as a hedge shrub or specimen in woodland borders, in mass plantings, in foundation plantings, or containers around entryways. It's sure to capture the attention of family and friends with its striking blooms and attract butterflies as well.

Once established, the Autumn Princess is a low-maintenance plant that demands attention wherever it is planted. Although not necessary, you can prune this azalea after the spring bloom to promote future growth. This plant is hardy in USDA Zones 6B-10B and requires 4-6 hours of sunlight to provide optimum growth and flowering. It's recommended to water thoroughly twice per week until established, then water once per week.

This plant ships as a 2-gallon potted plant with soil from the Alabama Gulf Coast. Please note that it's not guaranteed to be in bloom on arrival. This plant is unavailable to ship to Hawaii and Alaska. With its lovely foliage and long-lasting blooms, the Autumn Princess is a great addition to any garden.

4. Fragrant Blooming Shrub – Sweet Olive Osmanthus

Plants by Mail is proud to offer the Osmanthus fragrans, a fragrant and beautiful live plant that will add a touch of elegance to any garden or landscape. Please note that due to state regulations, this plant is not available for shipment to Hawaii and Alaska.

This plant is a perfect addition to any garden thanks to its USDA zone 7-10 rating, meaning it can thrive in a variety of climates. At maturity, the Osmanthus fragrans can grow to be 10-15 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for those looking to add some height to their landscape.

When you receive your Osmanthus fragrans, you will find it shipped in a pot with soil, which means it is ready to be planted immediately. This plant is easy to care for, and with proper maintenance, it will continue to flourish for years to come.

5. Autumn Sangria Pink Azalea Shrub – 3 Gal.

The Autumn Sangria Encore Azalea is a stunning reblooming evergreen shrub that produces large, deep pink flowers for months instead of weeks. This fast-growing azalea can reach widths of 4' W x 4.5 H and makes an excellent foundational growth plant, thriving in mass plantings.

As a pink flowering bush, the Autumn Sangria Azalea is perfect as a focal point around the yard and garden, adding a pop of color with its dense growth habit. The deep pink blooms attract a variety of visitors such as butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees, making it a wonderful addition to any garden.

Unlike many other azaleas, the Autumn Sangria requires little pruning to retain its form and does not need to be deadheaded. However, if pruning is desired, it should be done immediately after the spring flowering. Light pruning may facilitate growth and flowering in future seasons, but it is best to avoid fall pruning as you may remove buds that have already begun setting for the next blooming season.

The Autumn Sangria is hardy in zones 6-10 and can tolerate full sun, but it prefers partial shade for optimal blooms. It is important to water regularly, especially during dry periods, in the early years of growth. Like all azaleas, it grows well in acidic soil with a maximum pH of 6.5, but it prefers lower, around 5.5.

This potted plant is shipped in a 3-gallon pot with soil from the Alabama Gulf Coast. While not guaranteed to be in bloom on arrival, this plant is sure to impress once it begins to bloom. Please note that this plant is unavailable for shipping to Hawaii and Alaska.

6. Ivory Glow Evergreen Shrub – Full Sun Perennial

The Encore Azalea Autumn Moonlight is a highly sought-after plant in the gardening community due to its striking appearance. Its large, evergreen stature stands at 5' x 4' when fully matured, and boasts semi-double white flowers and dark green foliage, making it a beautiful addition to any garden.

This fast-growing rhododendron is a great choice for those looking to quickly illuminate their garden space with bright white flowers. As an Encore azalea, it holds its bright green foliage year-round, providing an excellent backdrop for other blooming flowers.

In terms of maintenance, the Azalea Autumn Moonlight is a very low-maintenance plant that still demands attention wherever it is planted. While it is not necessary, it may be pruned after the spring bloom to promote future growth.

This plant is hardy in USDA Zones 7-10, thriving in full sun to partial shade, and requiring 4-6 hours of sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. It is recommended to water thoroughly twice per week until established, then water once per week.

The Encore Azalea Autumn Moonlight is shipped as a 3-gallon potted plant with soil from the Alabama Gulf Coast. While it is not guaranteed to be in bloom upon arrival, it is sure to impress once it begins to bloom. Please note that this plant is unavailable for shipment to Hawaii and Alaska.

7. Snow White Indian Hawthorn (2.5 Gallon) White Blooming Evergreen Shrub – Full Sun Live Outdoor Plant

If you're looking for a beautiful and hardy flowering shrub to add to your garden, consider the Raphiolepis indica Snow White from Plants by Mail. This shrub is a great choice for gardeners in USDA Zones 7-10, as it can withstand the heat and humidity of these regions.

At maturity, the Raphiolepis indica Snow White typically reaches a height and width of 4 feet, making it a great choice for borders, hedges, or as a standalone specimen. This plant comes shipped in a pot with soil, so it's ready to be planted as soon as you receive it.

While this item is currently unavailable in Hawaii and Alaska, it's a great choice for gardeners in other regions looking for a low-maintenance and visually appealing shrub. The Raphiolepis indica Snow White is known for its beautiful white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, adding a touch of elegance to any landscape.

8. Green & White Evergreen Outdoor Shrub

Looking for an ornamental shrub that can add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space? The Ligustrum sinensis Variegata might just be the perfect fit for you. This beautiful shrub is available for shipping in a pot with soil, but unfortunately, it is not currently available in Hawaii and Alaska.

This Ligustrum sinensis Variegata is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, making it a great option for a wide range of climates. When fully grown, this shrub can reach a mature size of 6-8 feet in both height and width, providing a substantial and eye-catching presence in your landscape.

The most notable feature of this shrub is its variegated leaves, which are green with distinct, creamy-white margins. This striking coloration makes it an ideal choice for adding visual interest to your garden or yard.

When it comes to care, the Ligustrum sinensis Variegata is relatively low-maintenance. It prefers full to partial sun and well-drained soil, but can tolerate a range of soil types. Regular watering and fertilization will help ensure healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

Best Small Shrubs For Full Sun FAQs

What are the best small shrubs for full sun that attract pollinators?

There are several small shrubs that thrive in full sun and attract pollinators. One popular option is the butterfly bush (Buddleia davidii), which produces fragrant flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white that are irresistible to butterflies and bees. Another great choice is the dwarf blue butterfly bush (Buddleia davidii 'Buzz Sky Blue'), which is a compact variety that only grows to about 3 feet tall and wide.

Other small shrubs that attract pollinators include the dwarf fothergilla (Fothergilla gardenii), which produces fragrant white flowers in the spring and has attractive fall foliage, and the blue mist spirea (Caryopteris x clandonensis), which blooms with blue flowers in late summer and is a favorite of bees and butterflies. The dwarf summersweet (Clethra alnifolia 'Sixteen Candles') is another option that produces fragrant white flowers in mid-summer and attracts bees and butterflies.

When choosing small shrubs for full sun that attract pollinators, it's important to consider the specific needs of your garden and the types of pollinators that are most common in your area. By selecting the right plants, you can create a beautiful and beneficial garden that supports a wide range of pollinators.

What are the best small shrubs for full sun that require minimal maintenance?

When it comes to selecting small shrubs for full sun areas that require minimal maintenance, there are quite a few options available. One of the top choices is the Dwarf Korean Lilac, which is a compact shrub that produces fragrant purple flowers in the spring. Another great option is the Blue Mist Spirea, which is a small shrub with blue-green foliage and clusters of pink flowers in the summer. The Potentilla is another popular choice, known for its bright yellow flowers and tolerance to drought conditions. The Spreading Cotoneaster is another low-maintenance shrub, with small white flowers in the spring and red berries in the fall. Finally, the Boxwood is a classic choice that is both drought-tolerant and easy to care for, with dense evergreen foliage that can be trimmed into various shapes. Ultimately, the best small shrub for your full sun area will depend on your specific location, soil type, and climate.

What are the most drought-tolerant small shrubs for full sun locations?

If you are looking for small shrubs that can tolerate full sun and drought conditions, there are several options to choose from. One popular choice is the dwarf oleander (Nerium oleander), which is a low-maintenance evergreen shrub that produces colorful flowers in shades of pink, red, or white. Another option is the Texas sage (Leucophyllum frutescens), which is a hardy shrub that thrives in hot and dry climates and produces fragrant purple or pink flowers.

Other drought-tolerant shrubs for full sun locations include the bluebeard (Caryopteris x clandonensis), which is a compact shrub with blue flowers that bloom in late summer, and the butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii), which produces fragrant flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white and attracts butterflies and hummingbirds.

When selecting drought-tolerant shrubs for full sun locations, it is important to choose varieties that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions. It is also important to provide these shrubs with adequate water during the establishment period, and then gradually reduce watering as the plants become established.

What small shrubs are best for creating a low hedge in a full sun area?

There are several small shrubs that are ideally suited for creating low hedges in full sun areas. One of the most popular options is boxwood, which is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that can be pruned into a tidy low hedge. Another great option is dwarf yaupon holly, which is a hardy, adaptable shrub that can be easily maintained at a low height. Other options include dwarf lavender, which is both fragrant and attractive, and Korean boxwood, which is similar to traditional boxwood but with a slightly different growth habit. When selecting shrubs for a low hedge, it is important to consider factors such as growth rate, pruning requirements, and overall size to ensure that the plants will be well-suited to your specific needs. Additionally, proper planting and maintenance practices, including regular watering and fertilization, will help ensure the health and longevity of your hedge.

What small shrubs are deer resistant and thrive in full sun?

There are several small shrubs that are deer resistant and thrive in full sun. One such shrub is the dwarf Alberta spruce, which is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that maintains its shape without pruning and is deer resistant. Another option is the boxwood shrub, which is also evergreen and has a dense growth habit that makes it a good choice for hedges or topiaries. The butterfly bush is another deer resistant shrub that thrives in full sun and produces beautiful blooms that attract pollinators. Additionally, the juniper shrub is a hardy evergreen that is also deer resistant and thrives in full sun. It is important to note that while these shrubs are deer resistant, they may still be susceptible to other pests or diseases, so it is important to properly care for them to ensure their health and longevity.

What small shrubs are ideal for container gardening in full sun locations?

There are several small shrubs that can thrive in containers and full sun locations. One great option is the dwarf varieties of lavender, such as 'Munstead' or 'Hidcote'. These shrubs not only add beautiful purple flowers to your container garden but also emit a fragrant scent that can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Another option is the dwarf varieties of rosemary, such as 'Blue Boy' or 'Prostrate'. These shrubs have an aromatic scent and can be used in cooking, making them a functional addition to your container garden. Other small shrubs that can thrive in containers and full sun locations include dwarf cypress, boxwood, and heather. It is important to choose a container that is the appropriate size for your chosen shrub and to ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. Additionally, these shrubs will require regular watering and fertilization to maintain their health and beauty.

What small shrubs for full sun are best for creating a privacy screen or windbreak?

When it comes to selecting small shrubs for creating a privacy screen or windbreak in full sun, there are several options available. One of the best options is the Dwarf Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria ‘Nana’), which can grow up to 4-6 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide. Another great option is the Dwarf Burford Holly (Ilex cornuta ‘Dwarf Burford’), which can grow up to 6-8 feet tall and 6-7 feet wide.

If you're looking for a flowering option, you may consider the Dwarf Oleander (Nerium oleander ‘Petite Pink’), which can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide. Another option is the Dwarf Bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus ‘Little John’), which can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.

It's important to note that while these shrubs can provide a privacy screen or windbreak, they still require proper maintenance and care to ensure their health and longevity. This includes regular watering, fertilization, pruning, and pest and disease control.

What small shrubs for full sun are native to my region?

There are several small shrubs that are native to different regions and climates, so it's important to know where you are located. However, here are some examples of small shrubs that are native to many regions and can thrive in full sun:

1. Dwarf Fothergilla (Fothergilla gardenii): This small shrub is native to the southeastern United States and produces fragrant white flowers in the spring and vibrant fall foliage.

2. Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis): This shrub is native to much of North America and produces unique spherical flowers that attract pollinators.

3. Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius): This shrub is native to much of North America and has attractive exfoliating bark and white or pink flowers in the spring.

4. Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.): This shrub is native to much of North America and produces white flowers in the spring and edible berries in the summer.

5. Coastal Rosemary (Westringia fruticosa): This shrub is native to Australia and has small, aromatic leaves and produces white or pale blue flowers in the spring and summer.

When selecting shrubs for full sun, it's important to consider soil type, moisture requirements, and other environmental factors to ensure they thrive in your specific location.

What small shrubs for full sun offer year-round interest and texture?

There are several small shrubs that can thrive in full sun and provide year-round interest and texture to your garden or landscape. One of the most popular options is the Dwarf Blue Arctic Willow, which features blue-green foliage that turns yellow in the fall. Another great choice is the Blue Star Juniper, which has blue-gray foliage that maintains its color throughout the winter. The Dwarf Globe Blue Spruce is also a great option, offering a compact form with silver-blue needles that provide year-round interest. Additionally, the Dwarf Japanese Barberry offers a pop of color with its red or gold foliage and produces small berries in the fall. Lastly, the Dwarf Nandina is a low-maintenance shrub that features red foliage in the fall and winter, and produces white flowers in the spring. These shrubs are all great choices for adding texture and interest to your full sun garden or landscape.

What small shrubs thrive in full sun and add color to a garden?

There are several small shrubs that thrive in full sun and add color to a garden. One such option is the dwarf flowering almond (Prunus glandulosa), which produces pink or white flowers in early spring. Another option is the dwarf pomegranate (Punica granatum ‘Nana’), which produces bright orange-red flowers in the summer and edible fruit in the fall. The dwarf butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii ‘Buzz’), which produces fragrant purple, pink, or white flowers, is a popular choice for attracting butterflies to the garden. The dwarf barberry (Berberis thunbergii ‘Aurea Nana’) is another option, with its yellow foliage and red berries that persist through the winter. Other colorful choices include the dwarf spirea (Spiraea japonica ‘Little Princess’), the dwarf peach (Prunus persica ‘Bonfire’), and the dwarf lilac (Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’). When choosing small shrubs for a sunny garden, be sure to consider their mature size, growth rate, and water requirements.

Sharing is caring!

Similar Posts