Tropical plants are often associated with warm, humid climates, but luckily there are some species that can thrive in cooler temperatures!
These plants are a great option for gardeners who want to add a touch of the tropics to their outdoor space, even in colder climates.
In this article, I will introduce you to 11 cold-hardy tropical plants that can survive in temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit. From colorful flowers to exotic foliage, these plants will bring a touch of the tropics to your outdoor space.
11 Cold Hardy Tropical Plants for Your Garden
If you live in a colder climate but still want to enjoy the beauty of tropical plants, you’re in luck! There are many cold-hardy tropical plants that can survive in temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C). Here are 11 cold-hardy tropical plants that can add a touch of the tropics to your garden.
1. Palms
Palms are a classic tropical plant that can thrive in colder climates, adding elegance to any garden. While most palms are typically associated with warm and tropical regions, there are a few varieties that can tolerate colder temperatures and grow successfully in different USDA climate zones.
Some cold-hardy palm varieties include:
- Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus Fortunei): The Windmill Palm is a cold-hardy palm that can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C.) Native to the Himalayas, it can withstand freezing temperatures and is suitable for USDA zones 7 to 11.
- Needle Palm (Rhapidophyllum h\Hystrix): The Needle Palm is a cold-hardy palm perfect for cold climates. Native to the southeastern United States, it thrives in USDA zones 7a to 11. This palm can withstand temperatures as low as -5°F (-21°C).
- Dwarf Palmetto (Sabal Minor): The Dwarf Palmetto is a cold-hardy palm that can withstand temperatures as low as 0°F (-18°C). It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found growing in USDA zones 7b to 10b.
2. Bamboo
Bamboo is an excellent choice for adding a unique tropical look to your garden, even in colder climates. While many bamboo species prefer warmer environments, some varieties are hardy enough to survive colder temperatures. Some cold-hardy bamboo varieties include:
- Fargesia (Fargesia sp.): Fargesia bamboo is a cold-hardy bamboo species is well-suited for USDA zones 5 to 9. With its graceful appearance and vibrant green foliage, it adds a unique touch to gardens.
- Golden Bamboo (Phyllostachys Aurea): Golden Bamboo is suitable for colder climates and can thrive in USDA zones 5 to 9. With its tall and upright growth habit, Golden Bamboo showcases vibrant green canes that turn golden-yellow in sunlight, creating a striking visual display.
- Black Bamboo (Phyllostachys Nigra): Black Bamboo is another cold-hardy bamboo that brings a unique element to garden landscapes. It thrives in colder climates, as low as -10°F (-23°C,) and can be grown in USDA zones 7 to 11. With its distinctive jet-black canes, this bamboo species adds an exotic touch to any setting.
3. Hardy Banana
Hardy banana plants are a fantastic way to bring a tropical feel to your garden, even in regions with colder winters. One popular variety known for its cold tolerance is the Sikkimensis Banana.
- Basjoo Banana (Musa Basjoo): Basjoo Banana is a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a tropical touch to their landscapes, even in regions with chilly winters. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C), making it suitable for USDA zones 5 to 10.
- Sikkimensis Banana (Musa sikkimensis): The Sikkimensis Banana is a cold-hardy banana plant that can survive temperatures as low as 0°F (-18°C). It is known for its large, paddle-shaped leaves and can be grown in USDA zones 7 to 11.
4. Jelly Palm
Jelly Palm, also known as Butia capitata, is a cold-hardy palm that not only adds a tropical touch but also produces edible fruit. It can withstand chilly temperatures and thrive in colder climates.
The Jelly Palm can survive in temperatures as low as 5°F (-15°C). It is commonly grown in USDA zones 8b to 11, making it suitable for various regions with milder winters.
5. Bird of Paradise
Bird of Paradise is a unique tropical plant renowned for its striking orange and blue flowers. While it typically thrives in warm climates, there are cold-hardy varieties available that can withstand colder temperatures.
The Bird of Paradise can tolerate temperatures as low as 24°F (-4°C). It can be grown in USDA zones 9b to 11, making it suitable for regions with relatively mild winters.
6. Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is a stunning tropical plant known for its vibrant and colorful flowers. While it prefers warm climates, there are cold-hardy varieties that can withstand colder temperatures.
- Barbara Karst (Bougainvillea ‘Barbara Karst’): The Barbara Karst variety is a cold-hardy bougainvillea that can tolerate temperatures as low as 25°F (-4°C). It is commonly grown in USDA zones 9 to 11.
- Raspberry Ice (Bougainvillea ‘Raspberry Ice’): Raspberry Ice is another cold-hardy bougainvillea variety that can survive temperatures as low as 30°F (-1°C). It can be grown in USDA zones 9b to 11.
7. Mandevilla
Mandevilla is a beautiful tropical vine that can add a touch of elegance to any garden. Certain mandevilla species have the ability to tolerate colder temperatures, as low as 20°F (-7°C). They are commonly grown in USDA zones 9 to 11.
8. Canna Lily
Canna Lily is a tropical plant famous for its stunning flowers that come in various colors. Although they are native to warmer climates, there are cold-hardy varieties available for colder regions.
- Tropicanna (Canna ‘Tropicanna’): The Tropicanna canna lily variety is cold-hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F (-18°C). It can be grown in USDA zones 7 to 11.
- Wyoming (Canna ‘Wyoming’): The Wyoming canna lily variety is also cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C). It is commonly grown in USDA zones 5 to 11.
9. Passionflower
Passionflower is a unique tropical plant that produces stunning flowers and edible fruit. Some passionflower varieties can survive in colder climates.
- Maypop (Passiflora Incarnata): The Maypop passionflower is cold-hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C). It is commonly grown in USDA zones 5 to 9.
- Blue Crown (Passiflora Caerulea): The Blue Crown passionflower variety is also cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C). It is commonly grown in USDA zones 6 to 10.
10. Toad Lily
Toad Lily is a unique tropical plant that produces beautiful flowers in shades of purple, pink, and white. It has impressive cold tolerance and can survive in extremely low temperatures.
Toad Lily can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C). It is commonly grown in USDA zones 4 to 9.
11. Hibiscus
Hibiscus is a stunning tropical plant known for its large and colorful flowers. While some hibiscus varieties are not cold-hardy, there are hardy varieties available for colder climates.
- Rose Mallow (Hibiscus Moscheutos): Rose Mallow is a cold-hardy hibiscus variety that can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C). It is commonly grown in USDA zones 4 to 9.
- Hardy Hibiscus (Hibiscus spp.): Hardy hibiscus varieties, such as Hibiscus syriacus, are cold-tolerant and can withstand temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C). They are commonly grown in USDA zones 5 to 9.
What are Cold Hardy Tropical Plants?
Cold hardy tropical plants are a type of tropical plant that can survive in colder temperatures than their non-cold-hardy counterparts.
These plants have adapted to grow in areas where winter temperatures can drop below freezing, making them a great option for gardeners who want to add a tropical flair to their landscapes, even in colder climates.
Many cold hardy tropical plants are native to areas with high altitudes, such as mountainous regions, where temperatures can be cooler.
These plants have developed strategies to survive in these harsh conditions, such as growing smaller leaves to reduce water loss and protecting themselves from frost damage by producing antifreeze-like compounds.
Cold hardy tropical plants can add a unique and exotic touch to any garden, and with the right care and attention, they can thrive in colder climates.
When selecting cold hardy tropical plants for your garden, it’s important to consider factors such as soil type, sunlight, and water requirements to ensure they have the best chance of survival.
How to Grow Cold Hardy Tropical Plants
Growing cold hardy tropical plants in a garden located in zone 6 can be a challenge, but it is not impossible.
With the right location, soil, and maintenance, even cold climates can be made suitable for tropical plants like hostas and Colocasia esculenta, also known as jumbo elephant ear.
Here are some tips on how to grow cold hardy tropical plants successfully.
Choosing the Right Location
When choosing a location for cold hardy tropical plants, it is important to find a spot that receives enough sunlight. Most tropical plants require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive. Additionally, it is important to choose a location that is protected from strong winds, which can damage the plants.
Soil and Fertilizer
Cold hardy tropical plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is recommended to amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility. Fertilizer can also be used to provide the plants with the necessary nutrients. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal.
Watering and Maintenance
Watering is crucial for cold hardy tropical plants, especially during the hot summer months. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plants. Additionally, regular maintenance is necessary to keep the plants healthy and free from pests and diseases.
Overwintering
In colder climates, cold hardy tropical plants may require special care during the winter months. It is recommended to mulch the plants heavily in the fall to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. Some plants may also need to be brought indoors or placed in a greenhouse to survive the winter.
Final Thoughts
Cold hardy tropical plants offer an excellent way to bring a touch of the tropics to your garden, even in colder climates. With a wide range of options available, there is sure to be a plant that suits your tastes and needs.
Some of the most popular cold hardy tropical plants include the Windmill Palm, which is known for its ability to withstand temperatures as low as -10°F. Another great option is the Firecracker Plant, which produces stunning red flowers throughout the summer and fall.
When selecting cold hardy tropical plants for your garden, it is important to consider factors such as the plant’s hardiness zone, soil requirements, and sunlight needs. By doing so, you can ensure that your plants will thrive and provide you with years of enjoyment.
Overall, cold hardy tropical plants are a great addition to any garden, providing a unique and exotic touch that is sure to impress. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, adding a few of these plants to your landscape is a great way to create a beautiful and inviting outdoor space.