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.

1. This ‘Siam Ruby’ banana plant has unusual red and green leaves and is a real garden standout.
2. With its striking yellow and green leaves, variegated ginger makes a great container plant or works well in the garden.
3. Mix it up a bit: Brightly colored coleus adds wonderful splashes of color when used with impatiens.
4. What’s in a name? The leaves of the fishtail palm resemble…well, fish tails!
5. The pencil tree is a neat succulent that resembles its name.

Photo Credit: Jennifer Manning

1. Green striped agave blooms in late summer or early fall.
2. How’s this for a cool tropical? Bee hive ginger has interestingly shaped flowers with smaller blooms that resemble bees.
3. An elegant and stately palm is flagged by containers of brightly colored crotons and other lush tropicals.
4. The sago palm is a wonderful tropical that graces the landscapes of many homes.
5. 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