Beat the Heat: Best Flowers for Southern Gardens

Let’s be honest — not every flower can handle a North Carolina summer. Between the scorching sun and the thick humidity, plenty of blooms call it quits by mid-July. But the good news? Some flowers actually thrive in southern heat — and once you know what to plant, summer gardening gets way easier.

These are the flowers I reach for every year at Brawley Seed Co. when customers ask, "What won’t die in the heat?" If you're looking for the best flowers for southern heat, here are my personal favorites — tested and loved in real gardens right here in Mooresville.

Lantana 'Bandana Mango'

Lantana: A Classic Flower for Southern Heat

If I had to pick one plant that screams "southern summer champion," it’s lantana. The more heat and sun it gets, the better it blooms. Plus, it brings in pollinators like crazy — butterflies and bees can’t get enough. Great in beds or containers.

Portulaca (Moss Rose): Tough Blooms for the Southern Summer

Talk about low-maintenance! Portulaca thrives in poor soil, loves neglect (yes really), and its vibrant blooms open wide on sunny days. I plant this in spots where other flowers might struggle. It’s perfect for rock gardens, containers, or the edges of hot driveways.

Portulaca

Purple Scaveola

Mezoo Trailing Red

Scaevola (Fan Flower)

Scaevola is one of the most underrated performers in our garden center. Its fan-shaped purple or blue blooms stay strong through the most intense heat and humidity. It trails beautifully, making it perfect for containers and hanging baskets.

Mezoo Trailing Red

A unique trailing succulent that holds up beautifully in southern summers. With glossy leaves and tiny red flowers, Mezoo adds fun texture and is nearly impossible to kill. I use it a lot for filler in hot, sunny containers.

Blue Daze Evolvulus

Lemon Coral Sedum

Red Bedding Vinca

Evolvulus (Blue Daze)

If you're looking for cool-toned color to contrast all the hot reds and yellows of summer, Blue Daze is a winner. It’s drought-tolerant, heat-tolerant, and keeps its blooms going even on sticky August afternoons.

Lemon Coral Sedum

This one’s all about the foliage. Bright lime-green and ultra-tough, Lemon Coral Sedum gives amazing texture and color that doesn’t fade in full sun. It’s one of the best plants for heat and drought tolerance in the South.

Vinca (Annual Bedding Vinca / Catharanthus roseus)

Not to be confused with the groundcover type, this annual bedding vinca is a superstar in full sun. It blooms all summer long, even in the hottest parts of the yard, and barely flinches at high humidity. It’s a favorite with our customers — and for good reason.

Mixed planters combinations

Mixed Planter of Heat Tolerant plants

Summer Planters in Blue and Green

Tips for Growing the Best Flowers for Southern Heat:

• Water deeply and early in the day — shallow watering won’t cut it when it’s this hot.

• If you're planting in the ground, consider mulch. Mulch helps retain moisture and keeps roots cooler.

• Deadhead (remove old blooms) on plants that need it — it encourages more flowers.

So if you’re ready to refresh your garden with plants that actually want to be here in the heat, come see us at Brawley Seed Co. We’ve got these varieties (and plenty more) ready to roll. Bring a sun hat — you’ll want to spend some time browsing. ☀️🌼

Life's a garden, dig it!

Kari Brawley