Palms, Ferns & Tropical

Nothing changes the mood of an outdoor space faster than tropical foliage: big architectural leaves, layered greens and that unmistakable resort feeling around a pool or entertaining area. This collection covers the full lush spectrum, from feature palms and shade loving ferns to bold leafed tropicals that make even a small patio feel like a holiday.

The secret to tropical style anywhere in Australia is the microclimate, not the postcode. Palms and tropicals want shelter from hot dry wind, which shreds and browns large fronds faster than any cold snap, so plant them where buildings, fences or established trees break the prevailing wind. Around pools, set palms back at least 1.5m from the water line to keep frond drop manageable, and favour clumping over solitary species where root space is tight. Layer for the full effect: canopy palms at 4m plus, mid level tropical foliage at 1m to 2m, then ferns and groundcovers filling the floor, since it is the density of the layers, not any single plant, that creates the resort look.

Gardeners in Melbourne, Adelaide, Hobart and inland frost zones can absolutely play too, with a slightly different method. Choose the cold tolerant end of the range, plant in spring so there is a full growing season before the first frost, and use warm north facing walls, which can lift a garden by close to a full climate zone. Growing borderline species in large pots is the other proven trick, letting you shift them under a verandah for the two or three coldest months.

If palms specifically are your focus, our dedicated palms and tropical collection is worth a browse alongside this one. For the two most popular starting points, the golden cane palm care guide covers the classic screening palm for warm climates, and the bird of paradise care guide covers the sculptural all rounder that handles surprisingly cool conditions. We deliver lush, nursery fresh stock to every corner of Australia.