Top Full Sun Perennials for Zone 8

Best Zone 8 Full Sun Perennial Plants

Zone 8 gardens benefit from a long growing season and mild winters, making it an ideal environment for a wide variety of full sun perennials. These plants thrive in the abundant sunlight and can withstand the occasional heat waves common in this zone. Here are eight outstanding full sun perennial plants that will bring beauty and interest to your Zone 8 garden year after year.

1. Coneflower (Echinacea)

Echinacea, commonly known as Coneflower, is a hardy and versatile perennial native to North America. Known for its distinctive, daisy-like flowers with raised central cones, Coneflower comes in a variety of colors including purple, pink, white, and yellow.

Sunlight: Full sun
Height: 2-4 feet
Bloom Time: Summer to early fall

Care: Plant in well-draining soil and water regularly during the first growing season. Once established, Coneflower is drought-tolerant. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers, but leave some seed heads for winter interest and to attract birds.

2. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida)

Rudbeckia fulgida, commonly known as Black-Eyed Susan, is a cheerful and robust perennial that brings a splash of golden color to Zone 8 gardens. This North American native features daisy-like flowers with prominent dark centers, blooming profusely from midsummer to early fall.

Sunlight: Full sun
Height: 2-3 feet
Bloom Time: Midsummer to early fall

Care: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. Once established, Black-Eyed Susan is drought-tolerant. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering and prevent self-seeding.

3. Blazing Star (Liatris spicata)

Blazing Star, also known as Gayfeather, is a stunning vertical accent for Zone 8 gardens. This native North American perennial produces tall, elegant spikes adorned with dense clusters of purple or white flowers.

Sunlight: Full sun is ideal for optimal growth and flowering
Height: Typically reaches 2 to 4 feet tall
Bloom Time: Mid to late summer

Care: Plant in well-draining soil and water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Blazing Star is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during dry spells.

4. Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum x superbum)

Leucanthemum x superbum, commonly known as Shasta Daisy, is a classic perennial that brings a cheerful, cottage-garden feel to Zone 8 landscapes. This hybrid features pristine white petals surrounding golden centers, creating a timeless and elegant look.

Sunlight: Full sun
Height: 1 to 2 feet
Bloom Time: Summer to early fall

Care: Plant in well-draining soil. Shasta Daisies are drought-tolerant once established and only need watering during periods of less than one inch of rainfall. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continued flowering.

5. Garden Mum (Chrysanthemum spp.)

Garden mums are classic fall flowers that come in a variety of colors including red, orange, yellow, purple, and white. They bloom reliably each autumn and add a burst of color to the late-season garden.

Sunlight: Full sun
Height: 1-3 feet, depending on variety
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall

Care: Plant in well-draining soil and water consistently, especially during hot, dry periods. Pinch back stems in early summer to promote bushier growth and more blooms.

6. Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’

Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ is a popular and resilient perennial, prized for its attractive succulent foliage and long-lasting blooms. This variety of Sedum spectabile is known for its unique flower heads that change color as the season progresses.

Sunlight: Full sun
Height: 18-24 inches (45-60 cm)
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall

Care: Plant in well-draining soil; tolerates poor soil conditions; water sparingly once established; cut back in early spring; divide every 3-4 years if desired; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

7. Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.)

Coreopsis, also known as Tickseed, is a cheerful and resilient perennial that brings a burst of sunny color to Zone 8 gardens. These daisy-like flowers bloom profusely in shades of yellow, orange, or red, creating a vibrant display throughout the summer months.

Sunlight: Full sun is essential for Coreopsis to thrive and produce abundant blooms
Height: Typically ranges from 12 to 36 inches, depending on the variety
Bloom Time: Late spring through fall, with peak blooming in summer

Care: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, Coreopsis is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.

8. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Lavender is a fragrant, drought-tolerant perennial that thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Its aromatic foliage and purple flower spikes add both visual appeal and a soothing scent to Zone 8 gardens.

Sunlight: Full sun
Height: 1-3 feet, depending on variety
Bloom Time: Late spring to summer

Care: Plant in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and promote bushier growth. Lavender benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells. By incorporating these sun-loving perennials into your Zone 8 garden, you can create a vibrant, low-maintenance landscape that thrives in full sun conditions. Remember to provide adequate water during establishment and choose a variety of plants with different bloom times to ensure season-long color and interest in your garden.

Care Tips for Full Sun Perennials in Zone 8

Conclusion

Remember, the key to success with these perennials lies in proper planting and initial care. Ensure well-draining soil, provide consistent watering during the first growing season, and follow the specific care instructions for each plant. With these practices in place, your Zone 8 garden will flourish with minimal ongoing maintenance.