tropical

Dracaena is a lush, tall, leafy plant that creates a tropical look indoors, on a balcony or in the garden. There are many species and cultivars that give a range of leaf colours and patterns. Some also have fragrant flowers. Dracaena varieties The most impressive dracaena variety is the dragon tree (Dracaena draco) (pictured above). This large, spreading, multi-branched tree...

A little bit about the Cascade palm This Mexican native is a hardy and versatile clumping palm, and will be content in your garden or your home.   Botanical name: Chamaedorea atroviren Height 1.5 metres Width: 1.8 metres Ideal position: Cascade palms like a moist, sheltered spot with good drainage. A full sun position is fine, as long as it gets...

A little bit about the Alexander palm This hardy, fast-growing native palm is happy as a potted ornamental plant or in the garden. Its lush green foliage features fronds with a silver under surface that catches the light, especially when the sun is low.   Botanical name: Archontophoenix Alexandere Other names: Alex palm, king palm Height: 10 – 24 metres...

A little bit about the Majestic palm With its bright green symmetrical leaves and slightly swollen base, this fast-growing Madagascan palm feels right at home in Sydney.   Botanical name: Ravenea rivularis Height: 6 – 12 metres Width: 3.5 – 4.5 metres Ideal position: Likes full sun and isn't great as an indoor plant. Suitable for: your garden or in a...

Cordylines are tough, leafy plants that bring a subtropical flavour to gardens even in cool climates.

Their common name comes from their striking flowers – bright, plumed blooms perched on long stems that look like the crests of tropical birds peeking through the leaves.