Looking for the best plants for large pots in sun? Well then, you might love this list.
The following options are hardy, easy to grow, and low-maintenance. They do best in large pots from 10” to 28” across, and most of them prefer full sun.
Without further ado, let’s dive into it!
1. Agave
Height: maximum 15 ft (depending on the type of agave)
Recommended pot size: 10ft
Agave plants are striking succulents prized for their bold architectural forms and low-maintenance care. These plants are renowned for their ability to thrive in hot, sunny conditions, making them ideal choices for landscapes with ample sunlight.
When planting agaves in pot, make sure not to water so often and that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
2. Lemongrass
Height: 3-5 feet
Recommended pot size: at least 14 inches across
Lemongrass is easy to plant.
Lemongrass gives you a lot of benefits. They are beautiful, a great herb in your daily meals, and can repel ticks and mosquitos through their aroma.
You can either plant only lemongrass in a pot or mix them with some flowers or plants of lower height to increase visual effect. Just ensure that the other plants you choose have similar growing requirements to the lemongrass, such as sunlight and watering needs.
3. Dahlias
Height: from 15 inches to over 6 feet
Recommended pot size: 12- to 14-inch diameter
Dahlias is a perennial plant that will come back again in late spring. They are known as an easy-to-grow ornamental plant that blooms beautifully from mid-summer through fall.
Dahlias' flowers are varied in shape and color.
4. Petunias
Height: 6-18 inches
Recommended pot size: 12 inches
Petunias require at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily for the best results. In shade, they don't bloom and often become spindly.
The ideal growing conditions for Petunias are well-drained, moist, and moderately fertile soil. In general, they are easy to grow - both in containers, pots, hanging baskets, or in the ground.
What makes Petunias stand out is their flowers which are an interesting blend of chartreuse and hot pink. But many gardeners also use them as a natural pest control solution. Petunias repel tomato worms, aphids, leafhoppers, and beetles.
5. English Lavender
Height: 24-36 inches
Recommended pot size: 12-16 inches
There are many English lavender varieties, but Hidcote and Munstead are the easiest to grow, the most versatile, and require little to no maintenance.
English lavender can grow in cold and hot climates, but they need full sun for the best flowering, usually in late spring to early summer.
Their flowers are vibrant purple, which will be a great accent in your garden.
6. Portulaca
Height: 3 to 12 inches tall.
Recommended pot size: 12-20 inches
Portulaca produces vibrant and cheerful flowers. The wide range of colors, including pink, red, yellow, orange, and purple will add a splash of beauty to your gardens and landscapes.
They are easy to care for. It thrives in hot, sunny conditions and doesn’t require much attention. Its drought tolerance makes it a great choice for water-wise gardening.
These plants need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight. Don’t put them in shade as flowers won’t open in low light conditions.
7. Agapanthus (Lily of the Nile or African Lily)
Height: 2-3 ft
Recommended pot size: 12-18 inches
Agapanthus thrives in warm temperatures. Keep the plant in an area where temperatures range between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) during the growing season. In winter, protect the plant from frost by bringing it indoors or providing frost protection.
Water deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically about once or twice a week, depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and pot size.
8. Dwarf Citrus Trees
Height: 8-10 ft
Recommended pot size: 20-25 inches
With smaller size than regular citrus trees, dwarf citrus trees are suitable for growing in pots, making them an excellent choice for balconies, patios, or small gardens.
However, keep in mind that you still have to prune dwarf citrus trees regularly to maintain their small size. Otherwise, they may outgrow their designated space in your garden. Pruning can is also essential for maintaining the health and productivity of your dwarf citrus tree.
9. Lantana
Height: 18-24 inches
Recommended pot size: up to you
Lantana is great for large pots, especially if you choose a compact or dwarf variety.
It’s known for its ability to tolerate heat and drought, making it an excellent choice for sunny locations.
When planting lantana in pots, make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant's root system and provide proper drainage. Additionally, regular watering and occasional pruning will help keep the lantana healthy and thriving in its container environment.
10. Hibiscus
Height: 2- 10 ft depending on the variety
Recommended pot size: more than 24 inches
If you're planning to grow hibiscus, it's essential to choose a sturdy pot that can support its potential size. Cement, ceramic, or clay pots are excellent options for this purpose.
Keep in mind that tall hibiscus varieties can tower up to 5-6 feet (1.5-1.8m) in height, adding an impressive vertical element to your garden or patio.
11. Rosemary
Height: 3-5 feet
Recommended pot size: at least 12 inches
Rosemary is native to the Mediterranean, so they thrive happily in warm, humid environments with full sun and well-drained, sandy soil. On the contrary, they cannot tolerate below 30 F temperatures and hate boggy ground or heavy clay.
While rosemary can grow wild up to 5 feet tall, you can prune it to control its height.
Taking care of rosemary is very easy because it doesn't require regular fertilizing like other herbs. It just needs consistent watering during the growing season.
12. Kangaroo Paw
Height: 2-10 ft.
Recommended pot size: at least 1 gallon
Kangaroo Paws is a perennial plant that's easy to grow and can do well as pot plants. They prefer full sun exposure and slightly acidic soils with good drainage.
During early spring and summer, Kangaroo Paws need a little bit more watering than usual to extend the longevity of the blooms.
Their flowers are varied in color and size, from green and red through various shades of yellows and reds to the green and black of the Macropidia fuliginosa.
13. Portulaca
Height: 8 inches
Recommended pot size: 12 inches
Portulaca is just 8" tall but can spread up to 2' to create a dense mat, making it not only a great potted plant but also ideal for forming a lovely ground cover in rock gardens.
As a great plus, Portulaca blooms in different colors that blend nicely with its thin, green leaves for a lively, colorful blanket.
For the best results, grow Portulaca in well-draining soil with full sun exposure. Remember to remove dead flowers often to prolong their blooming.
14. Canna Lilies
Height: 3-5 feet
Recommended pot size: at least 16 inches in diameter
If you're living in warm zones 7 through 10, then Canna Lilies is a great choice. This perennial plant requires full bright sun exposure, monthly fertilizing, and moderately moist soil. They can't do well in dry conditions.
If grown in large pots or containers, make sure they have good drainage. Canna Lilies are low-maintenance and easy to grow.
Tips: To keep the blooming longer and stimulate the plant to produce more flowers, snip off the dead flower stalks.
15. Million Bells
Height: 8-9 inches
Recommended pot size: 12 inches
Million Bells are a beginner-friendly plant but require ample fertilizer during the growing season. It's best to feed them every two weeks using a water-soluble fertilizer to help the plant grow healthily and bloom longer.
Besides, ensure the soil is moderately moist, organically rich, and well-drained. Place them in full sun for the best results.
It's also recommended to plant three per 12" pot as this creates a beautiful circle.
16. Arborvitae
Height: 40–60'
Recommended pot size: 20 gallons
Many gardeners love Arborvitae because it's low-maintenance, classic, and elegant. They can hold their shape for very long with little pruning.
One of the most popular varieties is Emerald Green, known for its narrow pyramid shape up to 15' tall.
While full sun is best, Arborvitae can do well in part shade.
I tried my best to filter out the easiest-to-grow plants for large pots in sun so that even beginners can start with no difficulties. But the choice is up to you, especially your preference, the place you intend to place the plant in, and the weather conditions in your area.
Hopefully, you find my list helpful. Thanks for reading!
