Top 6 Heat Tolerant Shrubs

August 1, 2023

Transform your garden into a summer oasis with these top six shrubs that love the sun. Learn how to choose and care for these heat-tolerant plants. Read more.

If you’re looking to add some vibrant and heat-loving shrubs to your garden, you’re in luck. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to six of the best shrubs that thrive in the summer sun. Discover how to select and care for these resilient plants to create a stunning summer oasis in your outdoor space.

Understanding the Importance of Sun-Loving Shrubs.

Sun-loving shrubs are a great addition to any landscape, as they not only add beauty and color but also thrive in the summer sun. These shrubs are specifically adapted to tolerate the intense heat and sunlight, making them perfect for creating a vibrant and lush garden during the hot summer months. Understanding the importance of these sun-loving shrubs will help you make informed decisions when selecting and caring for them in your garden.

Choosing the Right Heat Tolerant Shrubs for Your Sun-Drenched Yard or Garden.

When selecting shrubs for the sun-drenched parts of your landscape, it’s important to consider a few key factors. First, assess the amount of sunlight your garden receives throughout the day. Some shrubs can tolerate full sun, while others may prefer partial shade. Next, consider the soil conditions in your garden. Certain shrubs thrive in well-drained soil, while others may require more moisture. Finally, think about the overall aesthetic you want to achieve in your garden. Consider the size, shape, and color of the shrubs to ensure they complement your existing landscape. By carefully selecting the right shrubs for your sun-drenched garden, you can create a beautiful and thriving oasis for the summer season.

Abelia Shrubs – Most varieties do well in USDA Hardiness grow Zones 5 through 9. Most varieties are also semi-evergreen. That means in colder climates, they may lose some of their outer foliage. Once established, they are drought tolerant and can take on the harsh afternoon summer sun. Small white blooms form in summer and can last for weeks. Abelia shrubs are compact and rarely need pruning, making them a great choice for borders or along any sun-soaked walkway or driveway. Compare Abeli shrub prices here.
Dwarf Hinoki Cypress – This is one of the easiest evergreens to grow. They are often used in larger containers around a patio or pool. It is popular for its lush, almost exotic foliage. Professional landscapers use them as corner pieces in front of a home. They are not just sun & heat tolerant but can also handle cold temps and are deer resistant. They are slow growers that get 2 to 3 feet wide and 4 to 6 feet tall. They are rated for USDA Hardiness Grow Zones 5 through 8.
Ligustrum, also known as Privet – Often used for privacy hedges, these are a variety of fast-growing evergreen shrubs. Most have fragrant blooms in spring and a few varieties will bloom again in late summer. There are Ligustrum varieties that grow anywhere from 4 to 15 feet tall. They are drought resistant, thrive in full sun and deer keep away from them.
Loropetalum – Also known as the Chinese Fringe Flower, these fast-growing shrubs are more of a southern staple rated for USDA Hardiness Grow Zones 7 through 10. Although new varieties are being introduced almost every year, it wouldn’t be surprising if a variety is introduced soo that can handle winter temperatures in colder growing zones. Depending on the variety, Loropetalum shrubs offer green to purple foliage & blooms that dangle ranging from pink to purple.
Cotoneaster – So here’s an option for more northern climates. With varieties that can handle extreme cold (USDA Hardiness Grow Zone 3), Cotoneaster shrubs are deciduous shrubs that thrive in the summer sun. They offer showy spring flowers followed by red, holly-like, berries that last for months. Durable and rugged are words often used to describe Cotoneaster shrubs.
Weigela – Weigela shrubs come in a wide array of varieties and serve many uses. From a low to medium hedge, to accent pieces in containers. These colorful evergreen shrubs can thrive in full sun in almost every part of the United States (USDA Hardiness Grow Zones 4 – 10). They are popular for their glossy, deep red evergreen leaves and bright pink, rose-like flowers. Like others on this list, Weigela shrubs can handle neglect.

Providing Proper Care and Maintenance for Heat Tolerant, Sun-Loving Shrubs.

Once you have selected the perfect sun-loving shrubs for your garden, it’s important to provide them with the proper care and maintenance to ensure their health and longevity. Here are some tips to help you keep your shrubs thriving in the summer sun:

Watering: Sun-loving shrubs typically require regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Water deeply and thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your shrubs to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulch also adds nutrients to the soil as it breaks down.
Pruning: Regular pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and size of your shrubs. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Fertilizing: Sun-loving shrubs benefit from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Use a slow-release fertilizer specifically formulated for shrubs, following the instructions on the packaging.
Pest and Disease Control: Monitor your shrubs for any signs of pests or diseases, such as aphids, scale insects, or powdery mildew. Treat any infestations promptly using organic or chemical controls, depending on your preference.
Winter Protection: Some sun-loving shrubs may require winter protection in colder climates. Consider covering them with burlap or providing a layer of mulch around the base to insulate the roots from freezing temperatures.

By providing proper care and maintenance, you can ensure that your heat-tolerant shrubs thrive and enhance the beauty of your garden throughout the summer season.

Enhancing Your Garden with Colorful Blooms and Foliage.

Adding colorful blooms and foliage to your garden can instantly enhance its beauty and create a vibrant and inviting space. Here are some tips for choosing and caring for plants that will bring a burst of color to your outdoor oasis:

Select a Variety of Plants: Choose a mix of annuals, perennials, and shrubs that offer different colors, textures, and heights. This will create visual interest and ensure that your garden looks beautiful throughout the season.
Consider Bloom Times: Select plants that bloom at different times of the year to ensure a continuous display of color. This will ensure that your garden always has something in bloom, no matter the season.
Pay Attention to Sunlight Requirements: Different plants have different sunlight requirements, so make sure to choose plants that are suitable for the amount of sunlight your garden receives. This will help ensure that your plants thrive and produce vibrant blooms.
Provide Adequate Watering: Proper watering is crucial for the health and vitality of your plants. Make sure to water your plants regularly, especially during dry periods, and avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Mulch and Fertilize: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Additionally, fertilize your plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Prune and Deadhead: Regular pruning and deadheading will help promote new growth and prolong the blooming period of your plants. Remove any dead or faded flowers to encourage the production of new blooms.

By following these tips, you can create a garden filled with colorful blooms and foliage that will be the envy of your neighborhood. Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of your outdoor space all season long.

Creating a Summer Oasis with Heat Tolerant, Sun-Loving Shrubs.

Transform your garden into a summer oasis with these top six shrubs that love the sun. Adding colorful blooms and foliage to your outdoor space can instantly enhance its beauty and create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. By choosing and caring for these heat-tolerant plants, you can create a garden that will be the envy of your neighborhood. Follow these tips to ensure your sun-loving shrubs thrive and bring a burst of color to your outdoor oasis all season long.

You can now compare the lowest prices on over 265 bushes and shrubs from our top-rated online nurseries.

About the Author

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Doug Hall

President at Target Marketing Solutions

Doug Hall owns BuyEvergreenShrubs.com and has over 14 years experience working with some of the largest online plant nurseries. Doug has consulted for, visited and evaluated quality from over 50 plant nurseries. He also has extensive direct marketing experience.