3 Cold-Hardy Tropical Plants to Grow at Home
Cold winter weather doesn't necessarily mean you must give up your dreams of having a tropical garden at home. There are several varieties of cold-hardy tropical plants you can grow in the ground or in containers to bring the atmosphere of the tropics anywhere you are. Here are some suggestions for tropical plants that grow well in colder climates:
Hardy Bananas
It doesn't get much more tropical than the banana plant. While the varieties of banana plants you can grow at home aren't likely to produce edible fruit, they still make stunning additions to a tropical garden. Though technically a herbaceous plant rather than an actual tree, some bananas can grow upwards of 12 feet tall in the right conditions. Luckily, this is the case even for colder climates.
The best option for a cold weather winter garden is either the Japanese banana or the Dwarf Cavendish banana. Trimming it down to a stump and mulching heavily during the winter will help it survive in temperatures well below freezing and allow it to bounce back in the spring.
Clumping Bamboo
Bamboo is an extremely resilient and fast-growing plant. While some species can be invasive, clumping varieties won't spread, making them an excellent choice for cold-hardy tropical plants. Some of the biggest advantages of bamboo are its utility and low-maintenance needs. You can plant clumping bamboo around the edges of your yard to create a natural privacy fence. Besides the occasional trimming, bamboo doesn't need much regular maintenance to thrive, and will last through snowy winters with ease.
Canna Lilies
For a colorful addition to your tropical garden, consider planting canna lilies. These cold hardy plants have foliage as bright and aesthetically pleasing as their blooms. Some produce large, variegated leaves in red, pink, orange and even dark purple.
While technically cold-hardy, canna lilies should be dug up from the ground before the first frost. You can save the bulbs inside until it's time to replant them in warmer weather.
While these suggestions are all suitable for colder temperatures, it's always a good idea to research specific plant needs before adding them to your garden. Knowing how best to care for plants will help them thrive and keep your garden lush all year long.
About the Author
Daniel Martin, Higgins Group Private Brokerage, Licensed in CT, Lic. #RES.6767971
With over two decades of experience in Connecticut real estate, Daniel Martin is a seasoned Realtor at Higgins Group Private Brokerage, renowned for his exceptional market insight and unwavering client dedication. A lifelong Connecticut resident, Daniel's deep roots in the community, coupled with his extensive professional background, provide an invaluable advantage to both buyers and sellers across Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
Daniel's distinguished career is marked by consistent achievement, earning him the prestigious Connecticut Magazine 5 Star Realtor award from 2014 to 2025. He is a perennial Top Producer, recognized as both a Top Listing Agent and Top Selling Agent, a testament to his strategic approach and keen understanding of market dynamics. His expertise spans a broad spectrum of real estate needs, including guiding First Time Home Buyers, navigating transactions for Single and Multi-Family Homes, Land, New Construction, New Residential Developments, Condominiums, Downsizing, and Rentals.
Beyond his impressive track record, Daniel's professional affiliations include memberships with the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), Connecticut Association of REALTORS (CAR), Bridgeport Board of Realtors, Smartmls and Greenwich MLS. His foundational education in real estate from Naugatuck Valley Community College, complemented by studies at Connecticut School of Electronics and Housatonic Community College, underpins his comprehensive understanding of the industry.
Daniel's unique blend of customer service acumen and technological proficiency sets him apart. He leverages every available marketing resource to ensure his clients' homes gain maximum exposure and stand out in the competitive market.
When not orchestrating successful real estate ventures, Daniel cherishes time with his family, including his wife, two children, and four grandchildren. A passionate musician and golf enthusiast, he embodies the vibrant spirit of the Connecticut communities he serves. Daniel's network extends globally, allowing him to facilitate referrals anywhere in the world.
