The Best Plants for Direct Sun

Different plants have different light requirements. Some can tolerate shade, others thrive in full sun and still others grow best in partial sun or shade. Knowing what type of sunlight a plant needs is vital so that you plant it in the right spot. If your yard or garden receives direct sunlight for most of the day, there are plenty of different plants from which to choose.

Lavender is valued for its flowers, but can also be used in cooking. This member of the mint family thrives in many different types of soil and can handle direct sun. Lavender plants produce purple flower spikes. Cut the flowers and use them in fresh flower arrangements or dry them. Lavender is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8.

Iris plants produce large, showy blooms that will add a pop of color to your garden. These frilly blooms can be up to six inches wide, depending on the variety you choose. Irises come in a variety of colors, including yellow, pink, blue and peach. Plant irises in well-drained soil and where they will receive full sun. These plants are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 10, depending on the variety.

Bellflowers should be planted in rich, moist and well-drained soil. They can handle full sun, but may need some shelter in extremely hot climates. Bellflowers produce bell-shaped flowers on tall stalks that come in shades of white, blue, purple and pink. Bellflowers are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8.

Dianthus plants will be an unusual-looking addition to your yard or garden. These flowers have petals ringed in fringe and can be shades of pink, red or white. In some varieties, the fringe is a different color than the rest of the flower. These plants need well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. They should be placed where they receive full sun. Dianthus flowers are hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9.