If you’ve got a south-facing balcony, you know it can get pretty toasty out there! But don’t worry—plenty of plants absolutely love soaking up those rays. Here’s a look at some sun-loving favorites that will turn your balcony into a stunning outdoor oasis.
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++Bougainvillea
Looking for a massive explosion of color? Bougainvillea is your best friend. These vibrant beauties thrive in full sun, and the more light they get, the more spectacular their blooms become. Just keep an eye on your watering can—while they love the heat, they don’t like to dry out completely. Keep the soil consistently moist, and they’ll reward you all summer long.
++Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum)
Who says balconies are just for flowers? Tomatoes are a fantastic choice for sunny spots. Not only do they provide lush greenery, but there’s nothing quite like the taste of a sun-ripened homegrown tomato. The more sun they get, the sweeter and more aromatic the fruit becomes. Depending on your space, you can go with big heirloom varieties or grow compact cherry tomatoes in pots.
++African Daisy (Osteospermum)
If you love the look of classic daisies but want something that can handle the heat, the African Daisy is a winner. Since they’re native to South Africa, they are total pros at dealing with high temperatures and direct sunlight. They come in gorgeous colors, often with contrasting centers. Just make sure they have good drainage—mixing a little sand into your potting soil helps prevent “wet feet.”
++Oleander (Nerium oleander)
For a touch of Mediterranean elegance, you can’t go wrong with Oleander. It’s a timeless classic that looks amazing in large pots. With its deep green leaves and beautiful pink or white blossoms, it’ll make you feel like you’re vacationing in Italy. They are tough, sun-loving plants that add a great structural element to any balcony.
++Olive Tree (Olea europaea)
Olive trees are becoming super popular for patios and balconies. You can let them grow into a rugged, gnarled shape or buy a “standard” (a little tree with a round top) and keep it neatly trimmed. They crave sunlight, making a south-facing balcony the perfect home. If your tree is happy and gets enough sun, it might even produce olives once it’s mature! Just remember to give it some winter protection if temperatures drop.
++English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Lavender is a total multitasker. It looks beautiful with its purple spikes, smells incredible, and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Even better? It actually helps keep mosquitoes and wasps away! You can even harvest the blooms to use in the kitchen—lavender is amazing in everything from roasted meats to shortbread cookies and lemonade.
++Geraniums (Pelargonium)
There’s a reason geraniums are the kings of the balcony box. They are incredibly hardy and bloom non-stop all summer long. Whether you choose the upright or the trailing varieties, they create a lush, full look that’s hard to beat. They love the sun and are very forgiving, making them perfect for beginners and pros alike.
%%Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum)
If your balcony gets “desert hot” and you want something low-maintenance, go for succulents like Hens and Chicks. These little guys store water in their thick, fleshy leaves, so they can handle long dry spells without breaking a sweat. They are the ultimate “set it and forget it” plant for busy gardeners who still want some greenery in the sun.