Tropical House Plants: Bringing the Jungle Home

Most common houseplants originated in tropical/subtropical regions under rainforest canopies—making them perfectly suited to life under our roofs. They thrive in our warm homes year-round; the only missing element is high humidity, which we can easily add.

Under the Tropic Sun: Croton

Crotons from Malaysia, Pacific Islands, and Northern Australia need bright light and high humidity. Their slick, shiny leaves shed heavy tropical rains—in nature, 100+ inches annually with 80% humidity.

Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)

Broad, marbled leaves made 'Tropic Snow' a decades-long favorite. Despite Brazilian origins, it adapts to average humidity and moderate light—low-maintenance with bold foliage.

Bromeliads: Yes, They Grow on Trees

In Central/South American rainforests, bromeliads grow epiphytically on branches. Their rosette of stiff leaves forms a water-holding cup. Scarlet Star (Guzmania lingulata) is popular and less humidity-demanding than others.

Many epiphytes exist—some ferns also grow nestled high in tropical Asian and South American trees.

Bird of Paradise

Slow-growing, takes years to bloom. Out of flower, its large leathery leaves resemble banana plants. Needs high humidity and sunshine—best in greenhouses, challenging in most homes.