Find plants for every light condition
Whether you have a sunny garden, shady corners, or something in between, discover plants perfectly suited to your garden's light conditions.
Browse by Sun Exposure
Select a light condition to explore plants with customizable filters
Full Sun
6+ hours of direct sunlight daily
Perfect for sun-loving plants like roses, lavender, and vegetables
Full Sun to Part Shade
4-6 hours of direct sunlight
Versatile plants that adapt to varying light conditions
Part Shade
3-4 hours of direct sunlight
Ideal for hostas, ferns, and woodland plants
Part Shade to Full Shade
2-3 hours or dappled light
Thrives with filtered or indirect light throughout the day
Full Shade
Less than 2 hours of direct light
Perfect for shade gardens and north-facing locations
Understanding Sun Exposure
Understanding your garden's sun exposure is crucial for plant success. Different areas of your garden may receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the day, and plants have evolved to thrive in specific light conditions.
Full Sun plants need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. These are typically Mediterranean herbs, most vegetables, roses, and many flowering perennials.
Part Shade plants prefer 3-6 hours of sun, often morning sun with afternoon shade. This protects them from intense heat while still providing enough light for growth and flowering.
Full Shade doesn't mean no light at all. These plants thrive with filtered light, dappled shade, or less than 3 hours of direct sun. Think of woodland plants like hostas, ferns, and astilbes.
Tips for Measuring Sunlight
Track sun patterns: Observe your garden at different times of day throughout the seasons. Trees and buildings cast different shadows as the sun's angle changes.
Morning vs afternoon sun: Morning sun is gentler than afternoon sun. Plants labeled "part shade" often prefer morning sun with afternoon protection.
Start with observation: Spend a day noting which areas get sun at different hours. This helps you match plants to the perfect spot.