15 Cold Hardy Tropical Plants: For Cold Climates

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. Each plant type has unique characteristics and can add a different look and feel to your garden.

When choosing cold, hardy tropical plants for your garden, it is important to consider the amount of sunlight and heat the plant will need. If you live in a climate where it gets cold in the winter, you may need to provide some protection for your cold hardy tropical plants. With proper care, cold hardy tropical plants can thrive in almost any climate. These plants are a great way to add beauty to your garden all year round.

15 Cold hardy tropical plants

Bamboo

Bamboo is a beautiful and versatile tropical plant that can add a touch of the tropics to any garden. Bamboo is a fast-growing plant, so choosing a variety appropriate for your garden’s size is important. Bamboo is tolerant of most soil types but prefers well-drained soil. Bamboo does not tolerate wet feet, so plant it in an area that does not stay soggy after rain.
Bamboo can be propagated by division. The division is the easiest and quickest way to propagate Bamboo. To divide Bamboo, dig up an existing clump and replant the new divisions in the desired location. It is best to divide Bamboo in early spring or late fall when the plant is actively growing.
Once established, Bamboo is quite drought tolerant. However, young plants will need regular watering until they are well established. Fertilize Bamboo plants once per year with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Be careful not to fertilize over, as this can burn the plant’s roots.

Colocasia

Colocasia is a tuberous plant, and its starchy roots are also edible. The plant grows best in full sun and humid conditions. In colder climates, Colocasia can be grown as an annual. It is a fast-growing plant, and its large leaves make it an ideal candidate for creating a tropical garden in a cold climate. Colocasia is relatively easy to care for and will thrive in most soil types as long as the soil is well-drained. The plant does not tolerate drought well, so it should be watered regularly during dry periods.

Hibiscus

Hibiscus is one of the most popular cold hardy tropical plants. They are available in many colors, and their large, showy flowers make them a favorite among gardeners. Hibiscus are relatively easy to care for and can be grown in various climates. Hibiscus is a great choice to add color to your garden.

Their large, beautiful flowers come in many colors, including pink, red, white, and yellow. Hibiscus is also relatively easy to care for. It is best to grow Hibiscus as annuals in colder climates or bring them indoors during winter. With proper care, Hibiscus will thrive in your garden and provide you with beautiful blooms all summer.

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Hardy Banana

Hardy Bananas are a type of Banana that can withstand colder temperatures, making them ideal for growing in cooler climates. Hardy Bananas are generally easier to care for than other types of Bananas. They’re tolerant of heat and cold and don’t require as much water as other Banana varieties.

Hardy Bananas can be planted directly in the ground or containers, making them versatile plants that can be grown anywhere. Growing Hardy Bananas is a great option if you live in a cool climate and want to enjoy fresh Bananas year-round. You can grow delicious, healthy Bananas in your backyard with little care.

Hostas

Many cold hardy tropical plants will thrive in your garden, even when the temperature dips below freezing. They are perfect for adding a lush green backdrop to your garden and come in various shapes and sizes. Hostas are very easy to care for and tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.

They prefer moist, well-drained soil and filtered sun but will also grow well in the shade. If you have a colder climate, choose a variety of Hostas known as winter hardy in your region. With their stunning foliage and easy-care requirements, Hostas are an excellent choice for adding a touch of the tropics to your cold climate garden.

Ferns

Ferns are a type of plant that can prosper in both cold and tropical climates. Ferns are great for cold climates because they can tolerate lower temperatures and still thrive. They also don’t require a lot of sunlight so they can grow well in shady areas. Ferns add a touch of green to any landscape and can help create a lush, tropical look.

You should consider a few things when growing Ferns in colder climates. First, ensure the planting area is well-drained, so the roots don’t rot. Second, water regularly but do not over-water, as this can lead to fungal diseases. And finally, protect young plants from frost by covering them with mulch or burlap sacks during the colder months.

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African Lily

African Lilies are evergreen or deciduous herbs with basal rosettes of strap-shaped leaves and terminal racemes or panicles of showy, often fragrant flowers. African Lilies are grown as ornamental plants in gardens and parks in temperate regions. Propagation is by seed or division in spring.

Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is a beautiful vining plant that is commonly seen in warm climates. However, if you live in an area with chilly winters, you can still enjoy the beauty of this tropical plant by planting a cold hardy variety. There are many different types of Bougainvillea, but not all are cold hardy.

No matter what type of Bougainvillea you choose, plant it in well-draining soil and give it plenty of room to grow. These vines can get quite large, so make sure you have enough space for them to spread out. And don’t forget to give them plenty of sunlight. Bougainvillea needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.

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Japanese Silver Grass

Japanese Silver Grass is an easy-to-grow ornamental grass that adds beauty and interest to the landscape. It tolerates various soils and growing conditions, making it a versatile plant for the home garden. This tough plant is also tolerant of drought and salt spray, making it an ideal choice for coastal gardens. Japanese Silver Grass requires little care once established, making it a low-maintenance plant for busy gardeners.

Bird of Paradise

The Bird of Paradise grows best in warm climates and cannot tolerate temperatures below freezing. However, some varieties are cold hardy than others and can survive in colder temperatures. When choosing a location for your plant, ensure it receives plenty of sunlight. To thrive, the Bird of Paradise needs at least six hours of sunlight daily.

It also prefers well-drained soil that is high in organic matter. If your soil is not high in organic matter, you can amend it by adding compost or manure before planting. Water your plant regularly, ensuring the soil stays moist but not soggy. During the hotter months, you may need to water your plant more often than during the cooler months. Finally, fertilize your plant monthly using a balanced fertilizer designed for tropical plants.

Yucca

Many Yucca species are widely cultivated as ornamental plants in gardens across the globe due to their attractive features, such as large rosettes of stiff, sword-shaped leaves and showy clusters of white or cream-colored flowers. While most Yucca species are native to warm climates, a few are adapted to cold weather. The plant grows in arid, sandy areas and is tolerant of drought and heat. The flowers are white or cream-colored and grow in clusters on tall stalks. Yucca is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much water or fertilizer.

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Mandevilla

Mandevilla vines can produce beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers in various colors, including white, pink, and red. The flowers of Mandevilla are very popular with hummingbirds and butterflies. While Mandevilla vines are typically found in warm climates, a few varieties are cold hardy, and can tolerate colder temperatures. Choose a variety specifically marked as cold hardy if you want to grow Mandevilla in a cold climate. When planting Mandevilla, give it plenty of room to grow since it can quickly become overgrown.

Umbrella Plant

The Umbrella Plant is one of the most popular cold hardy tropical plants because it can tolerate temperatures as low as -6°C. It is also drought-tolerant and does not require much maintenance. They are very easy to care for and can tolerate various temperatures, making them ideal for those in cold climates. Umbrella plants have long, narrow leaves that resemble blades of grass. The flowers of the Umbrella plant are small and inconspicuous. They are typically white or green and have a sweet fragrance.

Passion Flower

Plenty of cold hardy tropical plants can thrive in cooler temperatures. Passion Flowers are a great option for gardeners in colder climates. Passion Flowers are beautiful, exotic-looking plants that produce colorful flowers. They’re also relatively easy to care for and can be grown in various climates.

While native to tropical and subtropical regions, Passion Flowers can tolerate cooler temperatures and even light frost. Consider Passion Flowers if you’re looking for a cold hardy tropical plant to add to your garden. With its beautiful flowers and easy-care requirements, it’s sure to add some tropical flair to your landscape.

Pineapple Lily

The pineapple Lily has long, strap-like leaves and a tall stalk that bears a cluster of small, white flowers. It requires full sun but will also grow in partial shade. The plant is relatively drought-tolerant and does not require much water once it is established. It can be propagated from seed or division.

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Conclusion

There are many benefits to growing cold hardy tropical plants in cooler climates. One benefit is that these plants are often very low maintenance. They don’t require much water or fertilizer and are typically resistant to pests and disease. Another benefit is that cold hardy tropical plants can add a touch of beauty to your landscape without the hassle of having to bring them indoors during the winter. And since they’re rugged and adaptable, they can often survive colder temperatures than other tropical plants. In conclusion, cold hardy tropical plants are a great option for those in cold climates.

15 Cold Hardy Tropical Plants: For Cold Climates

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