Best Climbing Vines for Full Sun: 6 Beautiful Varieties

A house with climbing vines growing around its walls is a delightful sight. And while it may take several years for homeowners to get to those eye-catching results, that doesn’t mean you can’t do it too on your property. 

And the best part is that there are several climbing vines varieties you can select from, meaning you can unleash your creativity there! But, of course, you must also take into account your local climate and growing conditions. For instance, if you can only offer a sunny spot, you will not be able to grow shade-loving climbers. 

Luckily, there are plenty of options out there. But to help you get some inspiration, we put together this “Best Climbing Vines for Full Sun” essential guide. Here, you’ll find a list of our favorite varieties that don’t mind getting plenty of sunlight during the day.


Best Climbing Vines for Full Sun

Best Climbing Vines for Full Sun

Whether you prefer flowering vines or lush perennials, the essence doesn’t change. Most plants enjoy staying under the full sun. Because many of the plants we included here are tropical, if you live in a cold region, you may only be able to grow them as annuals. However, that shouldn’t stop you from adding them to your garden! 

Bougainvilleas

Best Climbing Vines for Full Sun

This list wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t add bougainvilleas. You have probably already seen this tropical climbing vine (at least in pictures), and you may be familiar with its massive blooms.

But the best part is that you can find it in several varieties (and colors). You could add more than one in your garden to “spice” things up a little. 

Because these plants are native to tropical regions, they enjoy plenty of sunshine and need hot temperatures to survive. However, with plenty of direct sunlight, you may also be able to grow them in USDA hardiness zones lower than 9. 

Mexican Flame Vine 

If you need a splash of vivid color in your garden, the Mexican flame vine might be your best solution. This climbing perennial is perfect for hot regions. And its bright orange flowers attract plenty of beneficial pollinators. 

Don’t worry if temperatures seem to rise too much: this plant won’t suffer from them! Because of its messy looks, the Mexican flame vine performs better in informal settings, where you can use it as a cover wall. 

Dipladenia

Dipladenia might look delicate, but it is far from being fussy. Indeed, this elegant plant adapts to various soil conditions. To produce masses of white blooms requires several hours of direct sunlight. So, avoid planting it in the shade. While the plant does well as a cover wall, you can also train it to climb around your pergola or a trellis. 

Wisteria 

Best Climbing Vines for Full Sun

If you don’t live in the south, you may prefer to get a hardier plant. Wisteria is one of the best climbing vines to add to any location.

However, remember that you’ll have to prune it regularly to prevent it from taking over your garden. With proper care, wisteria can help you transform your outdoor spaces into a magical place full of masses of purple blooms. 

And while this plant doesn’t mind the shade, it will give you the best results under direct sunlight. 

Clematis Rouge Cardinal

Not a lot of Clematis plants will thrive under the full sun. However, the Clematis Rouge Cardinal is an exception to the rule. This unique-looking plant produces eye-catching deep crimson blooms with a velvety texture. Under ideal growing conditions, you can expect this vine to get up to 12 feet tall. 

Don’t forget to plant it in suitable soil, which should be well-drained and moist (but not soggy). 

Moonflower

Moonflower might be a misnomer! Indeed, this plant loves the sun and can add a romantic touch to your garden. After all, the vine’s leaves are heart-shaped.

And while they alone could be the protagonist of the plant, the story doesn’t end here. Indeed, the moonflower also produces gorgeous bell-shaped blooms that open in the morning and close at night. 

While this plant adapts to various conditions in the summer, you’ll have to protect it from temperatures below 55°F. In essence, you’ll only be able to grow it as a perennial in USDA hardiness zones 10-12. But don’t let that discourage you from enjoying this gorgeous climbing vine!