The New Tropical Gardener’s Guide To Lush Foliage Plants

September 3, 2024

Enjoying the Pleasures of Your Tropical Garden

There is nothing in the outdoors quite as flamboyant as the tropical garden, and its essential element is its lush tropical foliage planted in layers. This luxuriant foliage garden recreates the way it all grows in nature and creates a rich tapestry of color, scent, and texture. This density of foliage is unique to the tropical garden; its characteristic richness of layering does not have time to develop in the northern gardens we all knew so well!

If you are new to tropical gardening this list of the foliage plants native to the tropics will get you well on your way. Gardeners everywhere love a walkway with soft edging, tropical plants are particularly effective for this.

Today, I am presenting you with foliage that is hardy in Zones 9-11. Many of these foliage plants will work in colder climates as summer annuals and some as house plants.

(I publish articles on tropical plants that can be used seasonally in temperate climate gardens. Read more if you like that lush look in your summer garden.)

Canna Lilys

Summer Blooming Bulbs

Adjusting To Tropical Spaces And Lush Foliage

It takes a while for those of us who have gardened for a lifetime in northern climates to adjust our eyes to the immoderate wealth of tropical foliage that we find in our new homes in sultry regions. We are a pair of northern gardeners now digging in South Florida sand.

The experience challenges us, it’s not just the different appearance of things, it is also the never-ending gardening season. The new tropical gardener who plans ahead does not need to be overworked; but do not expect to take a few months off in our tropics. (And the bugs never quit!)

How To Comprehend The Lush Foliage Of The Tropical Garden

The tropical garden depends on its rich selection of large-leafed foliage plants for its fatal charm; it helps the new tropical gardener to have a list of likely plants to start out with. We came to Florida some years ago and learned by making mistakes. The following information is the advice I wish I had when I started. I hope it helps if you are new to a tropical region.

Unlike those plants selected for blooms, the vivid foliage of these plants is on show for us all day every day.

For a little more information read this:

Florida Regional Gardens: North, Central and South

My Starter List Of Tropical Foliage Plants

Welcome to the Lush World of Tropical Foliage Plants!

Embarking on your tropical gardening journey can be exciting and rewarding. With their vibrant colors and striking leaf patterns, tropical foliage plants bring a touch of the exotic to any garden. These plants are both visually stunning and relatively easy to care for, making them perfect for starting out.

Why Choose Tropical Foliage Plants?

Tropical foliage plants thrive in warm, humid environments, making them ideal for gardeners in tropical climates. Their lush, green leaves can transform your garden. From the bold, architectural leaves of the elephant ear to the delicate, feathery fronds of the fern, there’s a tropical foliage plant to suit every taste and garden style.

Getting Started “Right Plant, Right Place”

Selecting the Right Plants: Start by choosing plants well-suited to your garden’s light and space conditions.
Preparing the Soil: Tropical plants prefer well-draining soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mix of peat, perlite, and compost works well. We garden in South Florida where soil is not soil as we knew it. We have amended our garden soil, a section at a time and now it is pleasant to dig in.
Watering and Humidity: These plants love humidity. Regular watering and misting can help maintain the moisture levels they need to thrive. Consider grouping plants together to create a micro-humid environment
Light Requirements: While some tropical plants will tolerate low light, most prefer bright, indirect sunlight. (This is why tropical foliage plants are so popular with indoor gardeners.) Make sure to place your plants in spots where they can get their optimal light. Move the grower pots around, make sure the light is right; then plant.

Here is your starter plant list for your new tropical space. Our garden space is small, we will not use the very large bird of paradise or bananas, the other plants fit comfortably around the house and pool.

The tropical foliage plants under discussion are native to Southeast Asia, Africa, the Pacific regions, and South America. Our goal is always to try and duplicate those environments.

1. **Elephant Ear (Colocasia and Alocasia)**

Elephant ears will create a bold statement in your garden. Their key features are the enormous striking leaves, their tropical appeal, varieties offering colors and patterns, and their versatility. Use them in beds, borders, or containers. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil and prefer partial shade.

Main Categories Of Elephant Ears

Elephant ear plants, known scientifically as Alocasia, Colocasia, and Xanthosoma, are all famous for their large, heart-shaped leaves that resemble the great ears of the elephant. Here are a few key points about them:

Striking Foliage: Their leaves can grow up to 3 feet long and 2 feet wide, making them a dramatic addition to any garden.
Tropical Appeal: They thrive in warm, humid environments, adding a lush, tropical feel to landscapes.
Variety: There are many species and cultivars, offering a range of leaf colors and patterns, from deep green to variegated.
Versatility: They can be grown in the ground or containers, making them suitable for various garden settings.

How to tell the difference Between Colocasia, Alocasia, And Xanthosoma

Growth habit of various elephant ear plants

Alocasia

Leaf Shape: Alocasia leaves are typically arrowhead or shield-shaped and tend to point upwards.
Petiole Attachment: The petiole (leaf stem) attaches at the base of the leaf, creating plant’s upright appearance.
Growth Habit: Alocasia plants often have a more upright growth habit and are commonly grown indoors.
Veins: The veins on Alocasia leaves are often very prominent and can be a different color from the rest of the leaf.

Colocasia

Leaf Shape: Colocasia leaves are also heart-shaped but tend to droop downwards.
Petiole Attachment: The petiole attaches slightly below the leaf base, causing the leaves to hang down.
Growth Habit: Colocasia plants are more commonly grown outdoors and can tolerate wetter conditions, sometimes even growing in water.
Edibility: Some species, like Colocasia esculenta (taro), are grown for their edible tubers.

Xanthosoma

Leaf Shape: Xanthosoma leaves are typically arrow-shaped and can be waxy with heavy veining.
Petiole Attachment: The petiole attaches at the base of the leaf, similar to Alocasia, but the leaves often point more outward than upward.
Growth Habit: Xanthosoma plants are also commonly grown outdoors and can be quite large.
Invasiveness: Some species, can be invasive. Check with your County Extension service for your area.

Each plant brings a unique look and feel to a garden, so choosing the right one depends on your specific taste and growing conditions.

This one is called Hawaiian Punch.

A Bonus Tip! Plant The Bulbs

You can buy elephant ear plants, but it is very economical and fun to grow them from their large bulbs. In colder climates, you can store the bulbs for the winter. These bulbs are typically large, round, and have a rough, bumpy texture. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to plant them: If you are a northern gardener accustomed to planting bulbs in the fall you will find that tropical bulbs have the same advantages; Elephant Ears: Bold Tropical Style For The Garden

Identifying the Bulb

Top and Bottom: The top of the bulb usually has concentric circles or a slightly pointed tip, while the bottom is rougher with small root nodules.

Planting Elephant Ear Bulbs

Choose the Right Time: Plant elephant ear bulbs in the spring after the last frost when the soil temperature is at least 65°F (18°C).
Prepare the Soil: Select a location with well-draining, rich soil. Loosen the soil to about 8 inches deep and mix in compost or mulch to increase nutrients.
Dig the Hole: Dig a hole about 4-6 inches deep. If planting multiple bulbs, space them about 3 feet apart to allow room for growth.
Plant the Bulb: Place the bulb in the hole with the top (pointed end) facing up. The top of the bulb should be about 1 inch below the soil surface.
Cover and Water: Cover the bulb with soil and water thoroughly. Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged.

Care Tips

Watering: Keep the soil moist, especially during the growing season. Elephant ears thrive in moist conditions and may need watering 2-3 times a week.
Fertilizing: Use a high-nitrogen fertilizer every 3-4 weeks to promote lush growth.
Sunlight: Provide partial to full shade, depending on the variety. Some, like the Black Magic variety, can tolerate more shade.
Winter Care: In colder climates, dig up the bulbs before the first frost and store them in a cool, dry place until spring.

**2. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)**

If a plant can rise from its roots in the soil, reach toward the sky, and symbolize flight and freedom, it is the bird of paradise. Its name is inspired by the tropical forest bird known for its exotic plumage, as the plant itself reaches skyward with its own vibrant ‘feathers.’

Bird Of Paradise-Two Different Plants That Suggest Birds In Flight!

White Bird Of Paradise

The first, we call ‘White Bird of Paradise’ it comes to us from South Africa it is Strelitzia nicolai and it has its own family called Strelitziaceae.

This is the big one, with the banana-like leaves and white and blue flowers. It can reach 20′-30′ in height and 10′ wide. Grow it in Zones 9b-11 Once it reaches 2-3 years old you can prune it to control its size and maintain good airflow. This is one of the plants most likely to provide an important tropical feeling in your garden.

There is a slightly smaller but still large white bird of paradise called Strelitzia alba.

This impressive plant features banana-like leaves and striking white and blue flowers. It can grow to a height of 20-30 feet and spread up to 10 feet wide. Suitable for Zones 9b-11, it can be pruned after 2-3 years to control its size and maintain good airflow. This plant is a fantastic choice for adding a tropical feel to your garden.

There is also a slightly smaller, yet still large, white bird of paradise known as Strelitzia alba.”

Brightly Colored Bird Of Paradise Plant

Bird-of-paradise or crane flower (Strelitzia reginae) is a native of South Africa and is closely related to the banana. The herbaceous plant derives its common names from the unique flower it bears, which resembles a brightly colored bird in flight.

Another Species Referred To As Bird Of Paradise

Red Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima)

This is a fast-growing shrub found in parts of tropical America. It performs best in a desert environment.

Mexican Bird Of Paradise (Caesalpinia mexicana)

Hardy in Zones 8-11 this plant blooms in yellow and can reach 10′ high.

Yellow Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia gilliesii)

You can use this yellow blooming plant in Zones 8-11.

The Caesalpinia species have smaller flowers, and love a little less humidity and sun.

3. Banana Plant (Musa)

Banana plants with lush tropical foliage

“Nothing evokes the tropics quite like the banana plant. Here, we focus on the ornamental varieties, which come in a range of sizes and colors and are more cold-hardy than their fruiting counterparts.

In Zones 9-11, you can grow banana plants either ornamentally or for food. When growing banana plants for ornamental purposes, consider the following ideas:

Focal point: Use a single banana plant as a centerpiece
Backdrop: Plant bananas behind other plants or features
Shade garden: Group 3–5 banana plants together to create shade
Windbreak: Use bananas to block summer winds
Privacy screen: Plant bananas to create a barrier

Ornamental Banana Plant Varieties For Foliage

Ensete ventricosum (Red Abyssinian Banana):
- This striking plant belongs to the Ensete genus.
- It features red and green leaves and grows up to 12-15 feet tall and 8-10 feet wide.
- Although its bananas are not edible, it makes a lovely centerpiece for tropical gardens.
- Look for the variety “Maurelii” for strong red coloration.
- Also known as Red Abyssinian banana.
Musa acuminata “Zebrina,” “Rojo,” and “Siam Ruby”:
- These red-leaved ornamental bananas are part of the Musa genus.
- They thrive in humid locations, making them suitable for parts of Florida.
- Consider growing them in large pots that can be moved indoors during winter.

Remember to provide well-draining soil, ample sunlight, and regular watering for successful growth!

**4. Canna Lily (Canna spp.)**

Cannas are renowned for their vibrant flowers and large, paddle-shaped leaves. Thriving in full sun and moist soil, they are an excellent choice for adding color and texture to your garden.

The Canna Lily is often used as a tropical accent in cooler-climate gardens. We saw them abundantly displayed in large planters at Blenheim Palace while enjoying lunch with the tame pheasants.

Select cannas both for the flowers and the foliage that comes in various colors and patterns. I made this little image of canna’s we use that look like stained glass.

These are images of popular canna leaves, note the luminosity as the sun shines through the leaf and the patterns you can use in your garden.

Important Varieties Of Canna Lily

Here are some important varieties of canna lily:

These varieties offer a range of colors and sizes, making them versatile additions to any garden.

You might like this image if you are a northern gardener and love the canna.

These huge terracotta pots of canna’s are placed throughout the gardens of Blenheim Palace. We saw them on a cold and rainy September near Oxford UK.

5. Bromeliads

Bromiliads showing both flower and foliage in vivid color

The image on the left shows bromeliads in flower, on the right we see colorful foliage, and the tiny flowers are inside the water cup.

“Bromeliads are tropical or subtropical plants that thrive outdoors in Florida’s warm, humid environment. In North Florida, and beyond, it’s best to grow them in containers and move them indoors during freeze or frost events. Most bromeliads prefer shade or partial shade, though some can tolerate full sun. Always check the specific requirements of the varieties you choose.

Despite their preference for moisture and humidity, bromeliads are highly tolerant of low-moisture conditions and can survive prolonged periods of drought. The main issue with bromeliads is root rot, which is caused by excessive moisture. The sandy, well-drained soils found throughout most of Florida are ideal for growing bromeliads. If you encounter heavy soils, amend them with 2 to 3 inches of organic matter (such as peat, leaf mold, or compost) mixed into the planting bed. Potted bromeliads perform best with a light, porous potting mix.

These plants are excellent for adding a splash of color with their bright, long-lasting flowers and unique foliage.

These bromeliads on the table are for sale at our annual garden sale. We operate this every year to benefit our volunteer Master Gardener services in our community. They are always a popular option because you can use them in beds, borders, containers, and hanging baskets.

Important Varieties Of Bromiliads

Here are some major varieties of bromeliads:

Aechmea: Known for their striking flower spikes and hardy nature.
Guzmania: Popular for their bright, long-lasting flowers.
Neoregelia: Often grown for their colorful foliage rather than their flowers.
Tillandsia: Also known as air plants, they don’t require soil to grow.
Vriesea: Recognized for their sword-shaped leaves and vibrant flower spikes.
Billbergia: Known for their tubular flowers and ease of care.
Cryptanthus: Often called Earth Stars due to their star-shaped rosettes.
Dyckia: Hardy bromeliads with spiky leaves, often grown in rock gardens.
Puya: Includes some of the largest bromeliads, with some species growing up to 30 feet tall.

These varieties offer a range of colors, shapes, and sizes, making them versatile additions to any garden.

**6. Crotons (Codiaeum variegatum)**

Crotons are famous for their colorful, variegated leaves, you will find them in shades of red, yellow, green, and orange. They thrive in bright, indirect light and well-drained soil.

Important Varieties Of Croton

Here are some important varieties of croton plants:

These varieties offer a wide range of colors and leaf shapes, making them excellent choices for adding vibrant foliage to your garden or indoors.

7. Caladium (Caladium )

Caladiums are a small foliage plant and available in many colors. The image on the left is called ‘white queen’ we use it for summer color in our warm season garden when most annuals are not productive. Use them in the ground or in pots like those on the right (on our front porch).

Buy caladiums in the bulb directly from the growers. A contrified Florida town, Lake Placid, is called the ‘Caladium capital of the world’ because farms in the little town blessed with rich, acidic, and mucky soil, produce 95% of the entire world’s supply. You order the ones you want online and they ship to your planting zone at exactly the right time to plant. We order ours at the beginning of the year and they show up in March on the door step.

Caladiums are tropical perennials known for their vibrant, heart-shaped leaves that come in a variety of colors, including green, white, pink, and red. These plants are native to South and Central America and thrive in warm, humid environments.

Here Are Some Key Points About Caladiums:

Caladiums are often used to add a splash of color to shady garden beds or containers. They can also be grown indoors as houseplants given the right conditions.

Do you have any specific questions about growing or caring for caladiums? 🌿

8. Monstera (Monstera deliciosa)

Monstera deliciosa, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, is a popular tropical perennial known for its unique and dramatic foliage. Here are some of its key features:

Monstera Plant Key Features

Leaves: The plant is characterized by its large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves that develop distinctive holes and splits as they mature. This natural fenestration resembles Swiss cheese, which contributes to its common name.
Growth Habit: It is a climbing evergreen shrub that uses aerial roots to climb trees in its natural habitat. Indoors, it typically reaches 6-8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters) in height with proper support.
Flowers and Fruit: While it rarely flowers indoors, the plant produces arum-like flowers and an edible fruit in its natural environment. The fruit has a sweet taste reminiscent of a mix of banana, pineapple, and mango ¹.
Light and Soil: Monstera deliciosa thrives in dappled or partial light and prefers well-drained, peat-based soil. It grows best in humid and warm environments.

Maintaining Your Monstera Plants

Light: Place your Monstera in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate low light, but its growth will be slower, and the leaves may not develop their characteristic splits and holes.
Watering: Water your Monstera when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Humidity: This plant loves high humidity. If your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water to increase humidity around the plant.
Temperature: Keep your Monstera in a warm environment, ideally between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature changes.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix, such as one designed for indoor plants or aroids. Adding perlite or orchid bark can help improve drainage.
Fertilizing: Feed your Monstera with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every month during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding in the fall and winter.
Pruning: Trim any yellow or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy. You can also prune to control its size and shape.
Support: As a climbing plant, Monstera deliciosa benefits from a support structure like a moss pole or trellis to encourage vertical growth.

9. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) is popular for its elegant appearance and air-purifying qualities. It is hardy in Zones 11-12. As Zone 9b gardeners we and our neighbors took the risk of cold nights and grew them, it was however a gamble. Here are some key features:

Foliage: It has glossy, dark green, elongated leaves that grow directly from the plant’s base. The leaves are typically 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) long and about 3-6 inches (7-15 cm) wide.
Flowers: The Peace Lily produces a unique white flower-like spathe (a modified leaf) surrounding a central spadix that contains tiny true flowers. These blooms can appear sporadically throughout the year, especially in spring and summer.
Growth Habit: It has a clumping growth habit, with leaves and flowers emerging directly from the soil. The plant can grow to a height and width of 1 to 4 feet (30-120 cm) indoors.
Light and Care: Peace Lilies thrive in low to medium light conditions, making them ideal for indoor spaces with limited natural light. They prefer moist but well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, but not overwatered.
Air Purification: They are known for their ability to remove toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air, improving indoor air quality.
Toxicity: It’s important to note that Peace Lilies are toxic to both humans and pets if ingested, causing irritation and other symptoms.

Peace Lilies are not only beautiful but also relatively low-maintenance, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

10. Ti Plant (Cordyline fruticosa)

Ti plants or cordelyne are known for their striking, colorful foliage. Look for colors ranging from green to red, pink, and purple. They prefer partial shade and well-drained soil. Grow them for tropical color where they can reach 10′ tall. They will do well in containers.

Cordelyne will provide beautiful colors every day and are well suited to the pool where they will not drop blossoms for you to clean up!

Cordelyne is simple to grow, easy to propagate and adds a bright splash of color anywhere in the garden that needs it. We propagate our own plants and plop the pots in different places in the garden and plant them when we find the perfect spot. They make a great gift for friends and neighbors as they are pretty and easy to live with. In Hawaii they symbolize good luck. Easy to love!

11. Philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum)

Philodendrons are versatile plants with large, glossy leaves that can be used as ground cover or climbers. Arborescent philodendrons are relatively hardy. These large, shrub-size plants with big leaves and sturdy, self-supporting trunks. The vining type of philodendron lives outdoors in Zones 10-11. They thrive in indirect light and well-drained soil.

Important Varieties Of Shrub-Like Philodendron

12. Heliconia (Helconia)

Note the blooms and the very long leaves. In our climate, we use the elongated leaves in flower arrangements and table settings.

Heliconias, also known as lobster claws, have unique, brightly colored flowers and large leaves. They prefer full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. They are showy plants with long leaves and brilliant bracts of color. There is only one genus with about 200 species to choose from. These are for color and interest at a lower height in the garden. They will reach 3′ tall and some are 6′.

Heliconias are known for their vibrant and unique flowers. Here are some of the most significant types you might consider for your garden. Sizes and colors vary, pick those that suit your space:

Helconia Varieties To Look For

a. Heliconia rostrata (Lobster Claw)

b. Heliconia psittacorum (Parrot’s Beak)

3. Heliconia bihai (Macaw Flower)

4. Heliconia caribaea (Yellow Heliconia)

5. Heliconia latispatha (Red Torch)

These varieties can bring a splash of color and exotic beauty to your tropical garden. Do you have a favorite among these, or are you considering adding any of them to your garden?

13. Ferns

Many ferns are available to gardeners in Zones 8-11 and many are house plants in lower zones. They are valuable to their ecosystems and are important in ornamental gardens. Here are some examples. The Value of Ferns, Marie Selby Botanical Garden

Varieties Of Ferns To Choose From

a. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)

Description: This fern has large, glossy, apple-green fronds that form a rosette, resembling a bird’s nest.
Care: Prefers indirect sunlight and consistently moist, well-drained soil.

Description: Known for its large, arching fronds, this fern can grow up to 4 feet tall and wide.
Care: Thrives in partial to full shade and needs regular watering.

Care: Prefers shady, moist environments and well-drained soil.

**b. Holly Fern (Cyrtomium falcatum)**

Description: Features dark green, glossy fronds that are leathery and holly-like.
Care: Grows well in partial to full shade and needs regular watering.

**c. Japanese Tassel Fern (Polystichum polyblepharum)**

Description: A shorter fern with arching fronds, ideal for ground cover or container gardening.
Care: Prefers shady spots and well-drained, humus-rich soil.

d. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum SPP)

This fine-textured airy plant is native to North America. Use it as an edging or ground cover. Maidenhair Fern UF/IFAS

e. Staghorn Fern

These ferns not only add a tropical feel to your garden but are also relatively low-maintenance. Do you have a favorite among these, or would you like more information on any specific fern?

f. Tree Ferns

For an impressive tropical statement consider adding a Tree Fern. They can grow to 15-30 feet tall.

Summary,

Tropical gardening will introduce you to a world of beautiful plants and flowers. However, gardening in the warmest part of North America has taught us that the core element of the tropical garden is the large foliage plants. Learn them first; the color, texture, and pattern we can achieve will surprise you. Then it will be time to add the floral touch.

Will you read the linked materials and tell me if you are planting tropical foliage plants and in what zone your garden lies?