🌞 Which Tropical Plants Survive Full Florida Sun?

Florida sun can be brutal — especially in zones 9–11, where the heat doesn’t quit. But it’s not just Florida gardeners facing the burn. If you’re growing in places like Texas, Southern California, Louisiana, or coastal Georgia, you know that picking the right plants is key to surviving summer.

If you’ve ever tried to grow something that looked great in the nursery but wilted by July, you know how important plant selection is. The good news? There are tropical plants that thrive in the sunniest, hottest parts of your yard — and many of them bloom nonstop all summer.

Whether you're designing a front yard bed or filling pots for a sunny patio, here are five tropical plants that handle full sun and southern heat like pros.

1. Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Tropical Hibiscus)

If you want big, bold flowers that thrive in full sun, tropical hibiscus is a top pick.

• Loves heat and humidity
• Blooms in a wide range of colors — from classic red to peach, pink, and yellow
• Performs well in containers or planted in the ground
• Attracts hummingbirds and pollinators

💡 Tip: For container growing, use a 3–5 gallon pot and a rich, well-draining mix. Water deeply and let the top inch dry between waterings.

🌺 Looking to add one to your garden? We grow several hibiscus varieties that are nursery-tested in Florida heat.
Browse available hibiscus →

2. Plumeria (Frangipani)

Famous for their fragrant blooms and sculptural branches, plumeria trees love sun and heat.

• Excellent for patios or poolside spots
• Flowers often appear before the leaves for dramatic effect
• Can be grown in containers and overwintered indoors in colder zones
• Needs excellent drainage

Many gardeners associate plumeria with Hawaii, but it grows beautifully in Central and South Florida, Texas, and the Gulf Coast.

3. Jasmine Sambac 

Looking for a plant that smells amazing and handles hot sun? Jasmine Sambac fits the bill.

• Produces highly fragrant white blooms, some varieties in clusters
• Grows as a compact, semi-vining shrub
• Thrives in containers or sunny garden beds
• Perfect for patios, entryways, and balconies
• Use this jasmine flower for tea

💡 Good to Know: Jasminum sambac loves sun, but will also tolerate partial shade in extremely hot conditions. It can be moved indoors in winter if needed.

4. Mandevilla

This vining tropical produces nonstop blooms in rich shades of red, pink, and white.

• Fast-growing and dramatic on trellises
• Great for containers or hanging baskets
• Loves full sun and regular feeding
• Blooms from spring to fall in warm zones

Mandevilla adds a vertical element and tropical feel — perfect for entryways, fences, or pergolas.

5. Bougainvillea

Tough, colorful, and sun-thirsty, bougainvillea is one of the most reliable flowering vines for hot climates.

• Nearly drought-tolerant once established
• Produces vibrant bracts (often mistaken for flowers)
• Needs strong sunlight and sharp drainage
• Can be grown as a vine, shrub, or even in bonsai form

💡 Caution: Bougainvillea has thorns, so plant away from walkways or use gloves when pruning.

🌿 Quick Tips for Growing in Full Florida Sun

• Use mulch to help retain moisture in containers or beds. We cannot stress this enough. Mulch is the first wonder of the gardening world.
• Choose pots that won’t overheat (avoid black plastic)
• Water early in the morning to reduce stress
• Use a slow-release fertilizer to keep blooming plants healthy

Looking for Sun-Loving Plants?

We grow and ship tropical plants from our nursery in Central Florida — all trialed in full sun and high heat. Whether you're in Florida, Texas, Georgia, or California, we offer varieties that can take the heat and still bloom strong.

🌿 See what’s in stock: Starter Plant

All plants are carefully packed and shipped across the U.S. with customer support from real growers who care about your growing success.