Hello,
I'm planning to create a polynesian inspired courtyard, and wondered if anyone knows of any tropical looking plants; preferably perennials, that would thrive in zone 5. I live in a suburb of Buffalo, NY. I am also curious about fast-growing bamboo as a border, and ground cover for in between flagstone, for the ground in the courtyard. Any ideas?
Polynesian courtyard
Some bamboo can become very invasive, be careful!!
Hardy Hibiscus is tropical looking although the colors are much more limited than the original tropical hibiscus.
You'd need the clumping type of bamboo.
There are a lot more tropical looking annuals than perennials, it's tough.
I think rhodys look very tropical.
How about a yucca? or is that too "southwest" looking.
Some of the clematis look very tropical looking.
I think some lilies and iris look tropical too.