Tropical Plants Guide

Tropical plants are plants that are native to tropical climates like the Amazon rain forest. There are many different kinds of tropical plants, and many of them have vibrant color schemes and patterns.

Wodyetia bifurcata is a type of palm tree that produces clusters of large red fruits. It can be found in tropical parts of Queensland, Australia. It isn't on any endangered species' lists, but it can be considered threatened.

Banisteriopsis caapi is a shrub that can be found in tropical forests in South America. In Peru and parts of Brazil, people are known to make a medicinal drink out of it, but it can be very dangerous and toxic.

Cerbera odollam is also known as the Indian Suicide Tree, and is found in French Polynesia and parts of Asia. The lime-like fruits that the tree bears contain a toxin called cerberin, which can make your heart stop.

Macadamia integrifolia is a large evergreen tree that produces macadamia nuts. The edible nuts are popular in many desserts or simply by themselves.

Acai is a very tall and slender form of palm tree that produces the Acai Berry. The Acai Berry is a popular medicinal remedy that is believed to aid in weight loss.

The Amorphophallus lambii Mayo is a rare bulb like flower that grows in the tropical region of Borneo. The plant also emits the smell of decaying flesh as opposed to a sweet floral scent.

Vanilla is an orchid that vines around other plants for support in tropical areas. The flowers pollinate one another to create the vanilla seed pod that is used in commercial flavoring.

The Bird of Paradise is a highly exotic and unique looking flower that is closely related to the banana plant. Also called the "Crane Flower", it originates in the tropical regions of South Africa and thrives well in warm, humid regions like Florida. It grows to nine inches tall. The Tree bird of paradise grows to nearly thirty feet in height. Growing this magnificent flowering plant requires nutrient and humus rich soil and plenty of peat moss to retain moisture.

The Glorisa Lilly is native to Uganda and is a climbing plant that thrives in humid climates. Its blossoms resemble flames of red and gold. This plant does best near water sources such as a koi pond, or a man-made stream. Plant it against a trellis or at the base of flowering trees.