Gardenias can take full sun, but need some shade. Maybe a couple of hours. They need moist soil that is not very acidic. Indian Hawthorne is another plant that flowers and is good in full sun.

Depending on the look you want and size limitations you could plant a more waxy leaved holly like Burford or dwarf Burford holly if you like that look. Junipers and arborvitae do very well in full sun but not partial shade. If height is not a factor you can use things like saucer or star magnolia for some spring color. Check out the NCSU extension website for more ideas. Search for drought tolerant shrubs