10 Plants That Grow Well in Arizona Full Sun

Arizona is known for its wide expanses of desert. As these areas have arid, well-draining substrates, they support the growth of plants that favor dry environments. Not all parts of Arizona are made equal, however; there are high-altitude regions with markedly cool conditions and there are plains that are known for their extreme summer heat. The state, which has subtropical deserts and intermountain climates, has hardiness zones ranging from 4b to 10b.

To determine which plants would thrive best in your specific area, it is advisable to consult a heat map or ask a local expert for recommendations. Zones with more than 100 heat days (with average temperatures greater than 30˚C or 86˚F) a year need to be planted with versatile species. Note that some areas with markedly warm summers may also have chilly winters despite having desert-like substrates, so tolerance for both cool and warm temperatures is desired.

Selecting plants for zones exposed to full sun may be quite tricky for the beginner gardener due to potentially extreme climate conditions. Ideally, you should aim to grow heat-resistant species that are native to the area. Some of these produce lovely flowers and vegetables that are able to persist and even thrive in warm temperatures. Consider planting some of these horticultural favorites below.

1) Common purslane (Portulaca oleracea)

Plants with succulent stems and leaves are usually quite versatile as they are able to store water and survive through brief droughts. Common purslane is a fantastic plant for many regions in Arizona as its fleshy foliage tolerates full sun. It can be cultivated as a ground cover or filler plant to add color and texture to bare spaces. Its trailing stems facilitate quick spread in well-draining substrates, aiding in soil aeration and salt removal.

Purslane stems can grow up to 16 inches (41 cm) long and may be brown to red in color. Their leaves arise as pairs or may occur alternately, giving rise to clustered new leaves at the tips of the stems. The delicate yellow blooms are solitary and are perfectly nestled in these clusters. Depending on rainfall trends and daily sun exposure levels, they may appear throughout the year.

Once they are pollinated, the blooms develop into capsules with a generous number of seeds. Their production is vital in many areas as self-seeding is required for this annual to persist. Many cultivars, with various bloom colors, are usually available in plant nurseries that specialize in succulents. Grow these alongside one another for a colorful display.

2) Marigold (Tagetes spp.)

Another annual with fantastic visual appeal, the humble marigold is a useful addition to just about any garden. Its yellow to orange blooms can effectively brighten up both indoor and outdoor spaces. They are thus used as decorative flowers for cultural events. The most common ornamental species include T. minuta, T. erecta, and T. patula. These annuals are now cultivated all across the globe.

Marigolds are considered some of the toughest flowering annuals in their native range. Some of their populations persist in the deserts of Arizona and Texas, where they may occur as short-lived perennials. Able to tolerate full sun and thrive in well-draining substrates, they bring many ecological benefits to both vegetable and flower beds. They contain phytochemicals that can supposedly deter many pests, including opportunistic grazers.

Aim to sow marigolds in early spring so that they can become fully established before temperatures drop in fall. Avoid planting them in humid or shady areas as this may result in reduced flowering rates and lower immunity to potential diseases. Seeds can be sown directly in the garden, given they are provided with light protection from harsh elements. 

3) Globe amaranth (Gomphrena globosa)

This ornamental plant is known for its spherical flower heads, which range in color from deep purple to orange and white. The pigmented portions of these heads are not considered petals as they actually hide the true, tiny flowers. Their colors, along with their chemical profiles, attract many butterflies and bees to private gardens. If your sunny garden requires more pollinators for fruit development, you should try planting a variety of Gomphrena cultivars.

This tough tropical species has stems that grow to about 2 feet (61 cm) long. A single plant can cover a spread of 12 inches (30 cm), so it may be cultivated as groundcover. Young plants may struggle to survive through summers in Arizona. In contrast, mature specimens with well-established roots should be able to thrive in full sun and last through brief dry periods.

Mature amaranths are also a perfect addition to xeriscapes because they can attractively contrast rocky arrangements and stiff borders. Hardy to USDA zones 2 – 8, G. globosa may begin producing buds in summer and may continuously bloom until late fall. It craves full sunshine and is thus known for being a remarkably heat-tolerant plant.

4) Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

This herbaceous perennial is known for being one of the hardiest wildflowers throughout its native range. Nonetheless, it is now quite rare in the wild. Its lavender blooms are eye-catching and are highly effective at attracting numerous pollinators. On lengthy floral stalks that grow to about 47 inches (119 cm) tall, they stand far above the leafy stems. The inflorescence is unique in that it takes the shape of a capitulum with both sterile and hermaphroditic florets.

The purple coneflower naturally occurs in fully exposed biomes, such as prairies, open woodlands, and meadows. Adaptable and suited to a wide range of conditions, it can easily be grown in temperate areas with either dry or moist substrates. Mature specimens are usually able to tolerate warm summers, though a layer of mulch may be required to keep their roots and crown cool.

Purple coneflowers can be planted in Arizona as early as February. They thrive best under full sun exposure, where their shoots can grow upright and tough. A hummingbird favorite, this species is an ideal choice for cottage gardens and flower beds. The blooms can produce a profusion of seeds, which may germinate aggressively in optimal conditions.

5) Cosmos (Cosmos spp.)

These members of the sunflower family (Asteraceae) can produce blooms at a remarkable rate each spring and summer. They belong to a genus that includes both annuals and perennials, most of which are native to meadows and scrubs in Mexico. Now extremely popular as ornamentals in flower gardens, cosmos come in many attractive hybrids and cultivars.

Cosmos plants thrive best under full sunlight, where their blooms eagerly grow towards the source of light. They may tolerate light shade as well, though temperatures need to be fairly warm for them to survive. Known for being drought-tolerant, they may even persist in conditions of neglect. They are thus considered low-maintenance options for homeowners who might struggle to find time to care for their garden.

As there is a wide variety of cosmos cultivars, there’s one that meets just about every garden need. Taller types are perfect for borders or as a backdrop for floral beds. Some of the most popular species include C. sulphureus, C. bipinnatus, and C. atrosanguineus.

6) Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.)

Fantastic ornamentals due to the colors of their modified leaves which cradle delicate blooms, bougainvillea species are hardy to USDA zones 9 – 10. They can be grown in pots and pruned to retain their size and shape. They can also be situated close to a meshed fence, where their shoots can be encouraged to trail as vines. The colorful leaves, which are called bracts, come in an array of pinks, reds, peach, cream, and yellow.

The most popular bougainvillea cultivars are hybrids between B. glabra and B. peruviana. Many of these are recipients of the RHS Award of Garden Merit due to their low-maintenance needs and ease of cultivation. In Arizona, they can be grown either indoors or outdoors as partial to full sun exposure is tolerated.

Full sun and warm temperatures, coupled with a consistent watering schedule, are the best conditions for rapid growth. Fertilization should also encourage the production of large bracts and blooms. At their peak flowering period, mature bougainvillea can drastically add color and texture to outdoor gardens. Their heavily laden shoots should not be pruned before the flowering period, however, to produce bracts.

7) Desert rose (Adenium obesum)

The desert rose is popular with many horticulturists because it can be cultivated using bonsai techniques. Its succulent shoots can expand to a considerable width and eventually resemble the appearance of a tree trunk. Leaves are restricted to the tips of younger branches as the older leaves are lost over time. Tough, dark green, and smoothly margined, they can form a lovely canopy.

Mature desert rose specimens are able to produce a profusion of relatively long-lived blooms. With petals that are vividly pink and fine enough to billow in the wind, they may be used in floral decorations and exotic arrangements. In regions with warm conditions, such as the deserts of Arizona, blooms may arise all-year round.

Desert rose thrives best in well-draining substrates and under full sun exposure. It appreciates being watered and fed with a balanced fertilizer through spring and summer. As it is a tough succulent, it is moderately resistant to many pests and diseases. Remarkably versatile, it can be cultivated in shallow pots or directly in the ground for maximum growth.

8) Common sunflower (Helianthus annuus)

The sunflower is unrivaled in its adoration of the sun. Its starry blooms grow toward the strongest source of light, opening up to reveal bright petals and a dense head of disk flowers. Cultivated for ornamental, culinary, and ecological purposes, it is a truly useful plant with a rich history and cultural importance. It’s no surprise that it is the subject of one of Van Gogh’s most famous paintings, “Lausanne”.

Sunflowers are able to produce tough taproots that penetrate far into the substrate, aiding in erosion prevention. This makes them ideal for cultivation in sloping areas where other plants may struggle to remain upright in well-draining soil. Their seeds need to be sown in fully sunlit areas. Under bright light, they should be able to quickly germinate and develop into robust seedlings.

As a heliotropic species, H. annuus is able to position its flowers so that it moves as the sun rises and sets. Earlier in the day, the blooms may face east. They gradually move to face the west as the sun sets. This phenomenon occurs before the seeds become large enough to weigh down the flowers.

9) Lantana (Lantana camara)

Known for its multi-colored and delicate inflorescences, L. camara is an adaptable plant that can thrive in a wide range of habitat types. Once its roots are fully established and spread out, it can persist through harsh conditions and produce densely packed branches. Its uniquely scented flowers attract hummingbirds, finches, bees, and butterflies. Once they are pollinated, they may change in color.

Lantana struggles to persist in shady areas, so it should be cultivated in the most brightly lit sections of the garden or home. In optimal conditions, its shrubs can become remarkably productive and may spread vegetatively at a quick pace. To prevent it from becoming a noxious weed, its roots can be restricted to large containers or pots.

This species is fairly common in some parts of Arizona as its mature specimens can survive with little water even when they are exposed to full sun. Despite its capacity to survive through brief droughts, it should nevertheless be watered regularly to ensure that the roots remain in good shape. Frequent watering should be done in summer to promote lengthy flowering periods.

10) Sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas)

If you thought you couldn’t grow vegetables in the desert landscape of Arizona, think again. Sweet potatoes can actually be cultivated to harvest size in low deserts. They favor full sun exposure and can survive through long warm days as long as ample water is provided. In fact, tubers need warm temperatures (above 65˚F) to produce new fleshy roots.

In Arizona, the best time to plant sweet potatoes is in spring (from March to June). Each plant should be provided with enough space for its roots to spread out. Watering frequency should be adjusted according to ambient temperatures and the occurrence of rainfall. During the hottest months, the roots may require a generous amount of water at least 3 times a week.

This tasty vegetable is a lovely addition to desert gardens as its harvest-sized tubers are nutritious, rich in moisture, and packed with vitamins. It makes for a great crop to grow close to the kitchen as it can be consumed on its own or incorporated into sweet treats. Its surface features are also quite lovely; the flowers, which resemble those of other morning glory (Ipomoea) species, arise on vines that can be trained to grow around a fence or trellis.