Tropical Plants for Lush Landscapes

Overview

Tropical plants bring vibrant color and rapid, lush growth. Most tropical regions have wet and dry seasons. Gardeners typically prune at the start of the wet season (late spring/early summer) so new growth is nurtured by gentle rains.

Double Coconut (Lodoicea maldivica)

From Seychelles Islands. Slow-growing fan palm with the plant kingdom's largest seed (looks like two fused coconuts). Germination takes ~1 year; first leaf another year. Reaches 100 feet with 20-foot leaves.

American Mangrove (Rhizophora mangle)

Red mangrove, widespread in tropical saltwater marshes and tidal shores (e.g., southern Florida). Arching aerial roots stabilize soil, absorb water/minerals. Bark yields tannin for medicine, tanning, inks, dyes.

Giant Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai)

Among the most beautiful tropicals. Banana-like green leaves with blue-and-white spiked flowers; gray-blue bract resembles a bird hiding in foliage.

Peacock Plant (Calathea/Maranta)

Broad oval leaves capture low light; reddish-purple undersides adapt to forest floor light. Striking markings (white midrib stripe) occur naturally. Leaves fold at night. Native to South American tropics.

Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica)

From tropical China. Evergreen shrub with shiny dark green, deeply toothed lance-shaped leaves, white flowers with pink centers. Needs well-drained moist soil, full sun; intolerant of cold drying winds. Prone to leaf spot, scale, fire blight.

Panama-Hat Plant (Carludovica palmata)

Palm-like but not a palm (Cyclanthaceae). Named for hats shipped via Panama during California Gold Rush. Excellent fiber source; cultivated as ornamental in tropical gardens.