Complete Gardening
Transform your garden into a lush, tropical paradise with these 20 stunning big leaf plants.
From the dramatic Elephant Ear to the exotic Bird of Paradise, each plant offers unique features that will captivate your senses and elevate the aesthetic of your outdoor space.
Whether you prefer vibrant colors, textured foliage, or bold patterns, this collection has something for every garden enthusiast.
1. Elephant Ear (Colocasia & Alocasia)
Imagine stepping into a garden where the leaves tower over you like living umbrellas. Elephant Ear plants, with their colossal, heart-shaped leaves, create this magical effect. These plants thrive in warm, moist areas, making them perfect for creating a tropical vibe in your garden.
The leaves can grow impressively large, making them a standout feature in any landscape. The rich green hues and dramatic size add a sense of exotic wonder. Just ensure they receive plenty of water and a bit of shade to keep them at their best. They are a true statement piece for any garden.
2. Banana Plant (Musa spp.)
The Banana Plant is the epitome of tropical flair with its long, wide leaves that dance in the breeze. These plants not only lend an iconic look to your garden but also provide a sense of adventure and wanderlust.
Their lush foliage is reminiscent of distant, exotic lands. While they are not the easiest to manage, their striking presence makes them worth the effort. To keep them thriving, provide ample sunlight and regular watering. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical retreat or just love their aesthetic, Banana Plants are a must-have.
3. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
With a name as exotic as its appearance, the Bird of Paradise is a true spectacle. Its bold foliage and striking flowers are a feast for the eyes. The vibrant orange and blue blooms resemble a bird in flight, adding dynamic beauty to any garden.
This plant thrives in sunny spots and rewards you with its dazzling display when well-cared for. The leaves themselves are a lush, deep green, offering a perfect backdrop to the flowers. A symbol of paradise, this plant can transform your garden into an escape from the ordinary.
4. Hosta
Hostas are the unsung heroes of shade gardens, with broad, textured leaves that come in an array of greens and yellows. These plants are perfect for adding depth and interest to areas where sunlight is sparse.
Their lush foliage creates a soothing, serene atmosphere, making them ideal for peaceful garden corners. Hostas are low-maintenance and thrive with minimal sunlight, which makes them a versatile choice. Whether used as ground cover or a focal point, their elegant leaves offer a touch of class and tranquility.
5. Philodendron (Tree varieties like Philodendron selloum)
Philodendrons, particularly tree varieties like Philodendron selloum, add a touch of grandeur to any garden. Their deeply lobed, glossy leaves are not just visually appealing but also create a sense of tropical exuberance.
These plants are relatively easy to care for, thriving in indirect sunlight and well-drained soil. The sculptural quality of their leaves adds an artistic element to your garden design. Whether planted in pots or directly in the ground, Philodendrons offer a lush, verdant escape that invites you to relax and enjoy the greenery.
6. Gunnera manicata
Known as the ‘giant rhubarb,’ Gunnera manicata is a plant that commands attention. Its enormous leaves can reach up to 4 feet wide, creating an impressive canopy that transforms any garden into a jungle-like paradise.
This plant thrives in moist, rich soil and is perfect for adding drama to water features or damp garden areas. The lush, green leaves offer both shade and visual intrigue, making it a favorite among those looking to create a bold statement. Embrace the wild, untamed beauty of Gunnera manicata in your garden.
7. Fatsia japonica
Fatsia japonica is a plant that effortlessly combines elegance with a hint of the exotic. Its large, hand-shaped evergreen leaves are a testament to nature’s creativity, adding texture and allure to any garden.
These plants thrive in shady spots, making them versatile companions for less sunny areas. The rich, glossy leaves maintain their beauty year-round, providing consistent visual interest. Whether used as a backdrop or a focal point, Fatsia japonica brings a touch of the tropics with its unique leaf shape and resilient nature.
8. Taro (Colocasia esculenta)
Taro plants, with their large, heart-shaped leaves, are a close relative of the Elephant Ear. These plants not only add grandeur to your garden but also a culinary twist, as some varieties have edible roots.
Thriving in moist, well-drained soil, Taro creates a lush atmosphere reminiscent of a rainforest. The striking green foliage adds a tropical flair, making it a favorite for water garden enthusiasts. If you’re looking to combine beauty with utility, Taro offers the best of both worlds, enhancing your garden with texture and taste.
9. Rhubarb (Rheum rhabarbarum)
Rhubarb is more than just a culinary delight; its lush, oversized leaves can turn any garden into a verdant haven. The broad foliage creates visual interest, while the vibrant red stalks add a pop of color.
Perfect for cooler climates, Rhubarb thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade. It offers a delightful blend of beauty and utility, providing a bountiful harvest of edible stalks. Whether you’re a foodie or a garden enthusiast, Rhubarb brings a sense of abundance and a touch of the exotic to your garden landscape.
10. Castor Bean Plant (Ricinus communis)
The Castor Bean Plant is a bold choice for those looking to make a statement. Its stunning, tropical foliage and spiky, red seed pods are visually striking but handle with care, as the plant is toxic.
These plants thrive in sunny, well-drained soil, offering a touch of the dramatic with their bold leaf patterns. While their beauty is undeniable, caution is advised when planting around pets or children. Their towering presence and unique appearance make them a captivating addition for those seeking an adventurous garden setup.
11. Canna Lily (Canna indica)
Canna Lilies bring a burst of color and excitement to any garden. Their bold leaves and striking flowers in reds and yellows are a visual feast that captures the essence of summer.
These plants thrive in sunny spots with well-drained soil, adding height and vibrant hues to your garden. Some varieties even boast variegated leaves, offering extra visual interest. Canna Lilies are perfect for adding a tropical touch to your outdoor space, turning it into a lively, colorful paradise that beckons you to enjoy the sun.
12. Tetrapanax (Rice Paper Plant)
Tetrapanax, also known as the Rice Paper Plant, is a botanical marvel with its huge, lobed leaves that transport you to a jungle-like wonderland. These plants are perfect for adding a sense of wild adventure to your garden.
Thriving in part-shade and well-drained soil, Tetrapanax creates an exotic atmosphere with its lush foliage. The leaves can reach impressive sizes, adding both vertical interest and texture. For those looking to create a dramatic, immersive garden space, Tetrapanax delivers a sense of untamed beauty and intrigue.
13. Ligularia
Ligularia is a plant that thrives in the moist corners of your garden, showcasing big, round leaves and tall flower spikes that add a touch of whimsy and elegance.
These plants are ideal for areas with consistent moisture, providing lush foliage that creates a soothing, tranquil atmosphere. The contrast between the large leaves and delicate flowers offers a unique visual appeal. Whether near a water feature or in a shaded border, Ligularia enriches your garden with its charming presence and vibrant color palette.
14. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
Hibiscus plants are synonymous with tropical beauty, featuring glossy, broad leaves and vibrant flowers that are a visual delight. The blooms, often in shades of red, pink, or yellow, add a splash of color that brightens any garden.
These plants thrive in sunny locations with well-drained soil, rewarding gardeners with their lush foliage and continuous flowering. Hibiscus brings a sense of lively, exotic charm, transforming your garden into a vibrant oasis. Whether as a hedge or a standalone feature, they’re sure to captivate with their tropical allure.
15. Caladium
Caladiums are nature’s palette, offering heart-shaped leaves in a dazzling array of colors and patterns. Perfect for bright shade areas, these plants bring a burst of color and artistic flair to your garden.
The combination of red, pink, and green hues creates a visual tapestry that enlivens shaded spots. Caladiums thrive in warm, humid conditions and well-drained soil, making them a versatile choice for adding interest and vibrancy. Whether mixed with other plants or in containers, Caladium leaves a lasting impression with its stunning foliage.
16. Monstera deliciosa
Monstera deliciosa, often celebrated for its iconic ‘Swiss cheese’ leaves, brings a touch of the tropics into your home or garden. The distinct split leaves create a bold, architectural silhouette that is both trendy and timeless.
These plants thrive in indirect light and well-drained soil, making them adaptable to indoor and outdoor environments. The large, glossy leaves add a sense of elegance and sophistication, elevating any space they inhabit. Monstera deliciosa is perfect for those who appreciate both form and function in their botanical choices.
17. Palm Varieties (like Windmill Palm)
Palm varieties, such as the Windmill Palm, bring a quintessential tropical vibe to gardens. Their long, fan-like leaves create a sense of movement and relaxation reminiscent of beachside retreats.
These palms thrive in well-drained soil and full sun, providing a hardy yet elegant addition to your outdoor aesthetic. Whether lining a pathway or as standalone features, palms add vertical interest and a laid-back charm. Perfect for those looking to capture the essence of tropical paradises, palms are a versatile and timeless choice.
18. Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)
Dumb Cane is a plant that effortlessly bridges the indoor-outdoor divide with its big, patterned leaves that add a touch of sophistication to any setting. The intricate patterns in shades of green and cream make it a visual delight.
These plants prefer indirect light and well-drained soil, thriving in containers or as part of a lush garden. Dumb Cane offers a perfect blend of style and ease of care, making it ideal for plant enthusiasts of all levels. Its striking foliage is sure to turn heads and enhance the elegance of your space.
19. Rex Begonia
Rex Begonias are a testament to the beauty of foliage, with bold, textured leaves that boast intricate patterns and vibrant colors. These plants are perfect for adding a splash of artistry to indoor gardens or shaded outdoor areas.
The variety of colors and textures available in Rex Begonias makes them a favorite among collectors and garden enthusiasts. They thrive in indirect light and well-drained soil, offering a low-maintenance option for those seeking beauty with ease. Whether in pots or garden beds, Rex Begonias captivate with their unique flair.
20. Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica)
Tropical Milkweed is more than just a pretty face; it’s a vital plant for attracting butterflies with its big leaves and vibrant orange and red flowers. This plant brings life and motion to your garden, creating a dynamic and colorful display.
Thriving in sunny locations with well-drained soil, Tropical Milkweed offers both beauty and ecological benefits. It’s a favorite among those looking to support pollinators while adding striking visual elements to their gardens. With its lively colors and purpose, Tropical Milkweed is a plant that delights on many levels.