Imagine transforming your outdoor space into a haven of lush, green plants with dramatic foliage , punctuated by some vibrantly coloured blooms.
The best way to achieve an exotic style oasis is by creating a jungle-type canopy, layering palms and taller plants with smaller varieties below to achieve the verdant vibe.
Make it sculptural with plants that have big leaves and dramatic shapes, and for maximum impact go for contrast- big leaves next to smaller leaves.
Colourful foliage plants will stand out against the predominant green of the larger varieties of tropical plants.
Tropical plants prefer a free-draining soil, so if you have clay soil it can be improved with a good layer of compost and mulch which will break down to provide essential nutrients to the soil.
The Trachyeapus fortunei (Chinese palm, Windmill palm) is a stunning popular palm with a bold, architectural form. It has large, fan-shaped leaves spiralling out all around the stem.
The Monstera deliciosa (Delicious monster), has big, dramatic leaves, well suited in a tropical garden setting.
Cordyline fruiticosa (Good luck plant), is a gorgeous, red-leaved plant and brings a splash of colour against a green backdrop.
Codinium variegatum (Croton) is a highly ornamental plant in vibrant colours of red, orange and yellow.
Strelitzia reginae, Hisbiscus, Duranta‘Sapphire showers’ and Tiania barbata all have fiery colours of hot pink, mango, purple and orange, as does the Canna lily ‘Black knight’which has bronze foliage and gorgeous red blooms.
Ferns love a moist, shady area and will bring a contrast in leaf textures and shapes. Try the dainty Maidenhair fern or the hardy Knysna fern.
Some groundcover plants like Bergenias and Ajugas will soon spread and fill any spaces between the other plants.
Finally, include a suitable place to sit and enjoy your tropical paradise!