Summer heat can be brutal on container plants, especially those not built to handle intense sun and drying winds. Many popular choices, despite their beauty, often wilt, scorch, or die when the temperatures rise—leading to frustration and wasted effort.
I’ve tracked the most common container plants that struggle in summer’s peak and identified 12 species that simply can’t take the heat. But don’t worry—there are plenty of tough, heat-loving alternatives that stay lush, vibrant, and low-maintenance all season long.
In this article, I’ll share which plants to avoid in your containers during hot months—and 10 hardy, sun-loving species that will keep your garden thriving when the mercury soars.
Impatiens
The vibrant colors of Impatiens can quickly fade when exposed to the blazing summer sun. Known for their love of shade, these plants wilt easily if not kept moist and cool. If you’ve ever watched in dismay as your Impatiens drooped under the sun’s harsh rays, you’re not alone. Their delicate structure simply doesn’t hold up in the heat. Consider moving them to a shaded area or swapping them out for a more sun-tolerant species. Their bright blooms are best enjoyed in cooler, more sheltered spots.
Begonias
Begonias, while stunning, can suffer from sunburn in high temperatures. The leaves may develop brown edges, a telltale sign that they’re getting too much sun. These beauties prefer indirect light and can quickly become stressed in direct sunlight. If you’ve noticed your Begonias looking crispy around the edges, it’s time to reconsider their placement. They thrive in shaded areas where they can escape the searing heat. For those who adore Begonias, consider a spot with dappled light to protect their delicate foliage.
Fuchsias
Fuchsias, with their elegant pendulous blooms, are not fans of direct sunlight. These plants are prone to stress and dehydration when temperatures soar. If your Fuchsias appear lackluster and drooping, the culprit is likely too much sun exposure. They flourish in cooler, shaded environments where they can maintain their grace. For gardeners who love the unique beauty of Fuchsias, providing them with partial shade can make all the difference in their seasonal performance. Avoid midday sun to keep them thriving.
Caladiums
Known for their strikingly colorful foliage, Caladiums are often a victim of the summer sun. The intense light can cause their leaves to wilt and lose their vibrant hues. If you’ve noticed your Caladiums looking particularly drab during the hottest months, it’s likely due to sun exposure. These plants prefer the cool comfort of shady areas to maintain their dazzling appearance. Moving them to a more sheltered location can help preserve their beauty. Enjoy their vivid colors in a spot that offers protection from heat.
Pansies
Pansies, with their cheerful faces, often find the summer sun too intense to handle. The heat can cause their petals to wilt and stems to go limp. If you’ve planted Pansies hoping for continuous blooms, the sun might be stealing their glory. They flourish in cooler temperatures and will appreciate some relief from the heat. Swap them out for more heat-tolerant plants or move them to a shaded spot to make the most of their beauty. A little shade can go a long way with these delicate blooms.
Snapdragons
Snapdragons, known for their cheerful blooms, often struggle in the unrelenting summer heat. You’ll notice their colors fade and stems droop when temperatures rise. These plants prefer the cooler beginnings and ends of the growing season, often wilting in peak summer. If your Snapdragons seem lackluster in the sun, they might be yearning for cooler conditions. Consider planting them in spots that receive morning sun and afternoon shade. This approach will let you enjoy their beauty without them wilting away.
Primroses
Primroses, while a bright addition to any garden, often suffer in the summer heat. Their petals can quickly fade, and the plant may show signs of stress if exposed to direct sunlight. These flowers thrive in the cooler, early months of the year and may struggle to maintain their vigor in summer. For those who love Primroses, providing them with a shaded area or swapping them out for more sun-tolerant plants can help. They need relief from the sun’s intensity to perform at their best.
Tubular Begonias
Tubular Begonias, though striking, are often casualties of the summer heat. When placed in direct sunlight, their leaves may scorch, leading to unsightly damage. If you’ve noticed your Tubular Begonias looking worse for wear in the sun, the heat might be to blame. These plants fare better in shaded spots where they can avoid the midday sun’s harshness. For gardeners keen on keeping their Begonias beautiful, ensuring they have ample shade can prevent sunburn and maintain their splendor.
Hydrangeas
Despite their grand appearance, Hydrangeas can fall prey to the summer sun’s intensity. Their flowers may wilt, and leaves droop if they’re caught in direct sunlight. These garden favorites thrive in cooler conditions and can become stressed under the sun’s unrelenting gaze. If your Hydrangeas aren’t looking their best, consider providing them with morning sun and afternoon shade. This setup can help them maintain their elegance without succumbing to heat stress. Hydrangeas love hydrated, sheltered environments.
Coleus
Known for their vibrant foliage, Coleus plants can struggle when subjected to intense summer heat. Their leaves may fade in color and droop when exposed to too much sunlight. If your garden features Coleus looking a bit dull, consider relocating them to shadier areas. These plants enjoy cooler, more protected spots where their vivid colors can truly shine. Maintaining their vibrancy requires shielding them from the harsh sun, allowing their natural beauty to take center stage in your garden.
New Guinea Impatiens
New Guinea Impatiens, while more sun-tolerant than their standard cousins, can still suffer in extreme heat. Their leaves may become scorched if exposed to prolonged, direct sunlight. These plants thrive in areas with dappled light or partial shade, where they can avoid the sun’s harshest rays. If you’ve noticed your New Guinea Impatiens looking a bit crispy, it may be time to find them a more sheltered spot. Providing them with the right environment can preserve their vibrant appearance.
Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums, with their cheerful blooms and edible leaves, often struggle in the height of summer. Their leaves may wilt and flowers fade when exposed to intense sunlight. These plants prefer cooler conditions and can crumble under the pressure of extreme heat. If your Nasturtiums look like they’re on their last legs, consider moving them to a shaded area or replacing them with more heat-tolerant varieties. Their vibrant colors are best appreciated when they’re not competing with the sun’s glare.
Lantanas
Lantanas are the embodiment of resilience in the face of summer heat. These hardy plants thrive under the sun’s rays, offering a burst of color with minimal fuss. Their flowers attract pollinators, adding life to any garden. If you’re looking to replace sun-sensitive plants, Lantanas offer a robust alternative that can withstand high temperatures. Their drought tolerance and vibrant flowers make them a favorite among gardeners in hot climates. Plant them in sunny spots, and watch them flourish effortlessly.
Zinnias
Zinnias are a sun lover’s dream, flourishing in high temperatures with ease. Their bright, daisy-like flowers add a splash of color to any garden, drawing in butterflies and other pollinators. If you’re swapping out heat-sensitive plants, Zinnias are a cheerful substitute that won’t wilt in the sun. They require minimal care, making them perfect for low-maintenance gardening. Position them in a sunny location, and the rewards will be vibrant blooms throughout the season. Zinnias thrive where others may falter.
Portulaca
Portulaca, also known as moss rose, thrives in heat and sun-drenched locations. This plant’s succulent-like foliage and vivid blooms make it a popular choice for hot, dry climates. If your garden needs a resilient ground cover, Portulaca offers beauty without the fuss. Its drought-tolerant nature means it can survive with minimal watering, ideal for busy gardeners. Plant it in sunny, well-drained areas where its cheerful flowers can brighten up the space. Portulaca is perfect for those seeking low-maintenance vibrancy.
Lavender
Lavender’s adaptability to heat makes it a classic choice for summer gardens. Known for its fragrant blooms, this plant thrives in sunny, well-drained locations. Its robust nature allows it to withstand dry spells, providing gardeners with beauty and aroma without constant care. For those seeking a low-maintenance option, Lavender offers both visual appeal and practicality. Plant it in sun-drenched areas, and enjoy the calming scent it brings. Lavender’s timeless charm adds elegance to any garden.
Marigolds
Marigolds are a gardener’s best friend when it comes to heat resistance. These vibrant flowers enjoy soaking up the sun, providing bold color contrasts in any garden. If you’re replacing heat-sensitive plants, Marigolds offer an easy-care solution that attracts beneficial insects. Their pest-repelling properties make them a natural choice for companion planting. Position them in full sun, and enjoy their cheerful blooms. Marigolds’ sunny disposition ensures a lively garden atmosphere all summer long.
Sunflowers
Sunflowers are synonymous with summer, standing tall and proud under the sun’s intense rays. These giants of the garden thrive in heat, their cheerful faces turning to soak up every drop of sunlight. If you’re transitioning from sun-sensitive plants, Sunflowers provide a striking alternative that embraces the sun. Their towering presence and vibrant blooms create a stunning focal point in any landscape. Plant Sunflowers in sunny spots, and watch them reach for the sky, embodying summer’s essence.
Geraniums
Geraniums are classic sun worshippers, thriving where many plants falter. Their robust nature and vibrant blooms make them a staple in heat-tolerant gardens. If you’re looking to replace plants that struggle in the sun, Geraniums offer a reliable and colorful solution. They’re ideal for containers and garden beds alike, requiring minimal water once established. Position them in sunny areas to enjoy continuous blooms throughout the season. Geraniums are a gardener’s ally when it comes to heat resilience.
Angelonia
Angelonia, often referred to as the ‘summer Snapdragon,’ thrives in hot conditions with grace. These plants offer a profusion of blooms that add elegance to sun-drenched gardens. For those in need of a heat-resistant alternative, Angelonia’s beauty is matched by its hardiness. Its upright growth and continuous flowering make it a favorite for sunny borders and containers. Plant Angelonia in sunny spots to enjoy its long-lasting charm and ease of care. This plant is as tough as it is beautiful.
Salvia
Salvia’s striking spikes of flowers are a beacon of color in sunny gardens. Known for their heat tolerance, these plants attract pollinators and provide a long-lasting display. If you’re replacing tender plants with hardier ones, Salvia offers a vibrant solution. Its drought-resistant nature makes it ideal for hot, dry climates. Plant Salvia in sunny locations and enjoy its blooms from summer into fall. The plant’s resilience and beauty make it a favorite among gardeners seeking dependable color.
Vinca
Vinca, also known as Periwinkle or Madagascar Periwinkle, is a stalwart in the face of summer heat. These durable plants offer continuous blooms and glossy foliage, thriving where others might wilt. For gardeners seeking a reliable alternative to sun-sensitive plants, Vinca is an excellent choice. Its tolerance for drought and heat makes it a favorite for sunny garden beds. Position Vinca in bright spots, and enjoy its unwavering performance all season long. Vinca adds a touch of elegance with minimal fuss.