13 Best Tropical Plants That Can Thrive Anywhere

Bring on the drama with a leafy fig tree. Weeping figs are named for their slender, leaning branches and dark green downcast leaves. They're popular houseplants because they can live for more than 20 years. Native to Asia and Australia, this elegant tree grows quickly and requires repotting in a blink of an eye. Do note that the plant is toxic (specifically the sap) to humans and animals as it can irritate the skin.

Average height: Three to six feet

Native region: Indonesia, Australia, India, Asia

Light: Bright, filtered

You can cross aloe vera off your grocery list when it's flourishing on your living room side table. With more than 500 varieties of the plant, aloe vera is a crowd favorite dating back to Queen Cleopatra's time for its clear gel and healing properties. Place your plant in an area where it will receive tons of sunlight, and be sure not to overwater it.

Average height: One to two feet

Native region: Arabian Peninsula, Madagascar, Africa

Light: Bright, indirect

The Kentia palm plant is pricey since it's not easy to propagate, but we think the slow but steady growth is worth the investment. This plant can grow to be up to 40 feet tall! The good news? This spiky plant doesn't require a lot of care—it's fine in low light and with low water.

Average height: 12 feet (indoors)

Native region: Lord Howe Island, Australia

Light: Partial, low light

This colorful, palm-like plant has green and pink coloring (the hue can be as dark as burgundy) running along the leaves. It's the splash of color your home is looking for! Since the plant grows upward it can add depth to your space. Cordylines require high humidity levels, rainwater, and distilled water.

Average height: Two to four feet

Native region: New Zealand, Indochina, Australia

Light: Bright to medium-bright, indirect

Here's a beloved houseplant that loves to be drenched in sunlight. They're inexpensive (perfect for gift giving), easy to grow, and lovely to look at since the plant features white flowers that stand out against the glossy green leaves. It's essentially the prettiest air purifier you can have in your space!

Average height: One to four feet

Native region: Central America, Asia

Light: Low light, partial

The three main features of the Philodendron genus: large leaves, rich green shade, and a glossy finish. This low-maintenance beauty can grow upright, trail, or climb. It's the perfect decorative accent for your home if you're looking for a way to spruce up your walls or windows. How often to water a philodendron depends on how much light the plant receives, but the average is every one to two weeks.

Average height: One to 20 feet

Native region: South America

Light: Partial

From dark green to punchy coral, a Chinese evergreen plant is a beauty filled with personality. These plants work indoors and outdoors, taking their time to grow into a sight so lovely your neighbors will insist you share all your plant care tips. In addition to looking gorgeous, these plants are extremely low maintenance. The color is the key to determining how much light your plant needs.

Average height: One to three feet

Native region: Asia

Light: Full, partial

The aggressive name of this plant owes to its toxicity. Every part of it can be dangerous to pets and people, from the sap to the roots. As toxic as it can be, this plant is a very common houseplant choice. It's native to South America and the Caribbean, and it grows best in high humidity and dappled shade.

Average height: Three to five feet

Native region: South America, Caribbean

Light: Partial

Under the same family of philodendrons, monsteras (also known as the Swiss cheese plant) have heart-shaped leaves that split along the perimeter. This easygoing gem is a must-have whether it's freshly potted or three years old. A monstera has to be watered regularly and requires a pot with multiple draining holes.

Average height: Three to 15 feet

Native region: Central America

Light: Dappled, partial

If your thumb isn't the greenest, here's another easy-t0-grow plant that's tolerant of various growing environments. Umbrella plant leaves are oval and drop down in the shape of—you guessed it—an umbrella. The plant requires indirect light, humidity, warmth, and well-draining potting soil.

Average height: Eight to 10 feet

Native region: Taiwan

Light: Bright, indirect

With a name inspired by a bird taking flight, bird of paradise is a tropical plant standout. Its long, spiked leaves add eye-catching color and texture. Just plant it in an area sheltered from the wind; a strong gust can break off those beautiful leaves. If you have pets, know that it's considered toxic and should be planted out of their reach.

Average height: Three to six feet

Native region: South Africa

Light: Full sun to partial shade

The rippled fronds on this fern give it a playful crownlike shape you'll love watching grow. It thrives in high humidity as most tropical plants do. Keep a bird's nest fern away from direct sunlight—it can burn those bright green leaves to a crisp!

Average height: Three to five feet

Native region: Australia, Asia, Africa

Light: Bright, indirect

Known as the lucky or money plant (not to be confused with a money tree), this succulent is the best way to thank your favorite host. If you're someone who has watched your plants wither away due to a lack of water, the jade plant doesn't require constant watering. It can live up to 70 years! Place it near a window and watch this budding succulent work its magic.

Average height: Three to six feet

Native region: Africa

Light: Bright, full sun

Snake plants are an incredibly popular houseplant. The wavy green leaves are streaked with yellow or cream like a snake, thus the name. The plant steals the show no matter where you put it. It's a great beginner plant since it's highly tolerant to various growing conditions and has a varying watering schedule depending on the season.

Average height: Six inches to 12 feet

Native region: West Africa

Light: Bright, partial light