Growing tropical plants in the Pacific Northwest can be rewarding and exciting for gardeners looking to add a touch of exotic beauty to their landscapes. While the region is known for its cool, moist climate, many tropical plants can thrive with proper care and attention.
Mandevilla
One popular tropical plant that can be successfully grown in the Pacific Northwest is the Mandevilla. Known for its vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers, Mandevillas add a splash of color to any garden or patio. These plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Growing them in containers that can be brought indoors during the cooler months is recommended in the Pacific Northwest.
Bougainvillea
Another tropical plant that can thrive in the region is the Bougainvillea. With its stunning bracts in vibrant shades of pink, purple, and orange, Bougainvilleas create a tropical paradise feel. They require full sun and well-drained soil, making them ideal for the Pacific Northwest’s long summer days.
Hibiscus
The Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, commonly known as the tropical hibiscus, is another tropical plant that can be grown successfully in the Pacific Northwest. These plants are known for their large, showy flowers in various colors. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and like the Mandevilla, they can be grown in containers brought indoors during the winter.
Japanese Banana
Consider growing the ‘Musa basjoo’ or Japanese Banana for a unique tropical touch. While it may not produce edible fruit in the Pacific Northwest, the lush foliage of this plant adds a dramatic element to any garden. It is important to provide winter protection by mulching heavily around the base of the plant or wrapping it in burlap to shield it from frost.
Canna Lilies
Canna Lilies are another tropical plant that thrives in the Pacific Northwest. Canna Lilies add a tropical flair to gardens and containers with their vibrant blooms and striking foliage. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Dinosaur Food Plant
If you’re looking for a large architectural plant, the Gunnera manicata, also known as the Dinosaur food plant, can be a great choice. This plant features enormous, umbrella-like leaves reaching up to six feet in diameter. It prefers moist soil and partial shade, making it suitable for our Pacific Northwest climate.
Agapanthus
Agapanthus, also known as Lily of the Nile, is a tropical plant that can add elegance to gardens in the Pacific Northwest. With its tall flower stalks and clusters of blue or white blooms, Agapanthus creates a striking display. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Palms
When it comes to tropical palms, the Fan Palms and Windmill Palms are suitable for the Pacific Northwest. These palms can tolerate cooler temperatures and can withstand some frost. However, it is important to protect them during severe cold weather.
Elephant Ears
Colocasia, or Elephant Ears, are tropical plants that can thrive in the Pacific Northwest. Known for their large, heart-shaped leaves, Colocasia adds a bold and tropical touch to gardens. They prefer full sun to partial shade and moist soil.
With proper care, attention, and protection during colder months, it is possible to grow various tropical plants that add a sense of paradise to gardens in the Pacific Northwest.
Frontier Landscaping can install the beautiful landscape you’ve always wanted. Our expert landscaping installation/construction team will guide you through every phase of the project, from the design process to installing high-quality hardscaping elements, irrigation systems, plant material, and clean-up.
