**Explanation:**

To survive in an area with limited sunlight, a plant species would need certain characteristics that enable it to maximize the amount of sunlight it can receive and utilize for photosynthesis. These characteristics include:

**1. Large leaves:**
Large leaves would provide a larger surface area for capturing sunlight. More surface area means more chlorophyll-containing cells, which can absorb sunlight and convert it into energy through photosynthesis. By having large leaves, the plant can optimize its light absorption and maximize its energy production even in areas with limited sunlight.

**2. Short stems:**
Short stems would allow the plant to grow closer to the ground, where it can receive more direct sunlight. In areas with limited sunlight, the available light may be blocked or filtered by taller plants or structures. By having short stems, the plant can position its leaves closer to the ground, reducing the distance the sunlight has to travel and increasing its chances of receiving sufficient light.

**3. Thick cuticle:**
A thick cuticle is a waxy layer that covers the outer surface of leaves and stems. It helps to reduce water loss through evaporation and protect the plant from environmental stresses. In areas with limited sunlight, the plant may also experience limited water availability. By having a thick cuticle, the plant can minimize water loss and maintain its water balance, allowing it to survive in such conditions.

**4. Bright flowers:**
While bright flowers may attract pollinators, they do not directly help a plant species survive in an area with limited sunlight. Bright flowers are typically associated with attracting insects or birds for pollination, but they do not contribute to the plant's ability to capture and utilize sunlight for photosynthesis. Therefore, bright flowers are not a characteristic that would directly aid a plant in surviving in an area with limited sunlight.

In conclusion, among the given options, **large leaves** would be the characteristic that would best help a plant species survive in an area with limited sunlight. Large leaves provide a larger surface area for light absorption and increase the plant's chances of receiving sufficient sunlight for photosynthesis.