There’s no doubt that tropical plants are unusual and tend to stand out in the garden. And you don’t have to be a plant expert to know a tropical when you see one – tall and graceful ferns; colorful and bright flowers in vibrant shades of red, yellow and orange; and wonderfully variegated leaves in unusual shapes and sizes. There are countless fascinating tropicals to add to your garden or to enjoy as indoor plants. Here’s just a taste of some delightful plants that can enhance, add beauty and bring exotic flavors to any garden or home.
- This ‘Siam Ruby’ banana plant has unusual red and green leaves and is a real garden standout.
- With its striking yellow and green leaves, variegated ginger makes a great container plant or works well in the garden.
- Mix it up a bit: Brightly colored coleus adds wonderful splashes of color when used with impatiens.
- What’s in a name? The leaves of the fishtail palm resemble…well, fish tails!
- The pencil tree is a neat succulent that resembles its name.
Photo Credit: Jennifer Manning
- Green striped agave blooms in late summer or early fall.
- How’s this for a cool tropical? Bee hive ginger has interestingly shaped flowers with smaller blooms that resemble bees.
- An elegant and stately palm is flagged by containers of brightly colored crotons and other lush tropicals.
- The sago palm is a wonderful tropical that graces the landscapes of many homes.
- Call it snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue – this swordlike tropical may look biting, but it’s actually easy to grow indoors.
Photo Credit: Jennifer Manning
