Living in a colder climate doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the lush, tropical look in your garden. With the right plant selections, you can create an exotic paradise, even in zone 5! I’ve compiled this list of my top 10 recommendations for tropical looking plants that can withstand colder temperatures. Read on for the full scoop.
1. Japanese Fiber Banana
With its huge paddle-shaped leaves, the Japanese fiber banana (Musa basjoo) is a classic tropical plant. Although it won’t produce edible fruit in cooler climates it makes a stunning ornamental specimen. This banana can survive temperatures as low as -20°F when heavily mulched. Grow it in full sun for best results.
2. Elephant Ear
Elephant ears (Colocasia esculenta) are a favorite old-fashioned plant that looks right at home in a tropical garden. Their leaves come in a range of shapes and sizes, from heart-shaped to arrow-like, and may be solid green or variegated Grow elephant ears in part sun to full shade. Provide plenty of moisture Most varieties are hardy to zone 7.
3. Canna Lily
With its large, colorful blooms and lush foliage, canna lily offers serious tropical flair. These fast-growers come in a rainbow of flower colors, from vibrant orange to soft pink. The foliage is also quite variable – look for types with purple, bronze, striped or variegated leaves. Grow cannas in full sun and fertile, moist soil. Most are hardy to zone 7.
4. Firecracker Plant
Also known as cigar plant, firecracker plant (Cuphea ignea) is a warm-season annual covered in tubular, orange-red blooms. It has a naturally shrubby, mounding form with delicate green leaves. Use firecracker plant in containers or as an annual bedding plant. It thrives in full sun and is hardy to around 25°F.
5. Mandevilla
Looking for a vine that screams tropics? You can’t go wrong with mandevilla These fast-growing climbers produce an abundance of big, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red and white. The glossy oval leaves provide the perfect backdrop Grow mandevillas in partial sun, in a sheltered spot. Bring pots inside before frost. Hardy to zone 9.
6. Hardy Hibiscus
With dinner-plate sized blooms and lush, fig-like leaves, hardy hibiscus adds gorgeous color and texture to the garden. Its huge, showy flowers come in every shade except blue. Plant it in full sun to part shade and provide plenty of moisture. Some varieties can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F when mulched heavily.
7. Pineapple Lily
Despite its name, the pineapple lily (Eucomis comosa) is not a true lily at all. It produces a tuft of waxy green leaves and a tall stalk covered in white or purple pineapple-like flower clusters. Pineapple lily looks right at home mixed with other tropical plants and can be grown in containers. Site it in partial shade and well-drained soil. Hardy to zone 7.
8. Palms
What’s more tropical than a palm tree? Luckily, some palm varieties can survive temperatures well below freezing. Good options for cooler climates include the Windmill palm, Chinese Fan palm, and Dwarf Palmetto. Plant them in a sheltered, sunny spot with well-drained soil. Protect the crowns with mulch in winter. Most are hardy to zone 7 or 8.
9. Bird of Paradise
Though tender tropicals, some bird of paradise varieties can handle brief freezes with proper care. Give them a very sheltered location in Zone 9B or warmer. Provide warm microclimates and insulation around the crowns. Two of the most cold tolerant options are Giant bird of paradise (Strelitzia nicolai) and White bird of paradise (Strelitzia alba).
10. Yucca
With its spiky, sword-like foliage and tall flower stalks, yucca has a decidedly tropical vibe. These tough, low-maintenance plants thrive in full sun and dry conditions. Some varieties like Adam’s needle yucca tolerate temperatures down to -20°F. Use yucca as a focal point in planting beds or grow it in containers.
As you can see, there are lots of options for achieving a tropical look even in cold winter climates. With a bit of planning and protection, you can surround yourself with lush, exotic plants despite the weather. Just pick the varieties that best match your growing conditions and needs. Your own tropical oasis awaits!
Cold Hardy Tropical Plants / Unique Plants For Cold Climates
FAQ
Can you grow tropical plants in cold climates?
What temperature is too cold for tropical plants?
What are the easiest tropical plants to grow outdoors?
What are cold hardy tropical plants?
Cold hardy tropical plants are a type of plant that can withstand colder temperatures and still thrive. These plants are perfect for adding a touch of the tropics to your garden in colder climates. There are many different types of cold hardy tropical plants available.
Which tropical plants are best for cold climates?
Botanical Name: Canna indica Indian Shots are probably the easiest tropical plants to grow in pots and on the ground. Peach Gigantum, Skyhawk, and Stuttgart are best for cold climates. 7. Banana Botanical Name: Musa basjoo There’s no better tropical looking plants for cold climates than the Banana tree.
What is the best cold hardy plant?
The Fig Tree If you are looking for a cold hardy plant that gives fruits as a bonus, the fig tree also known as the Ficus Carica is the best choice. These cold hardy tropical are adaptable to different climates, soils, and their fruits are the best when picked right off the tree.
Can tropical plants grow in colder climates?
Despite being challenging, growing tropical plants in colder climates are possible. Some of them are cold tolerant. Thus they can withstand low temperatures with minimal issues. However, you must determine the hardiness zones of each plant because they have different tolerances to cold temperatures. Take dwarf palmetto as a great example.
What plants look tropical?
This list of hardy plants that look tropical will help you get started. Hibiscus syriacus or Rose of Sharon is a bush that has beautiful tropical-looking blooms. The flowers are usually 3″ to 4″ across and come in many different colors, including pinks, purples, blues, whites and reds.
Can you grow cold hardy tropical plants yourself?
Growing cold hardy tropical plants is an exhilarating experience. Plants like the hardy banana and canna lily are proof that almost everyone can grow a garden with a tropical look and feel. Try a few of these cold hardy tropical plants yourself for a fun and unique garden experience. Happy growing!