You don’t need to live in the rainforest to enjoy a garden that feels wild, vibrant, and alive. That lush, overgrown jungle aesthetic—full of oversized leaves, dense foliage, and layered greenery—isn’t reserved just for equatorial climates. In fact, with the right plant choices, you can recreate that dramatic tropical vibe even if your winters bring frost or your summers are dry.
Creating a jungle-inspired garden is more about the feeling than the climate: bold textures, rich colors, and a sense of depth and abundance. And luckily, there are plenty of temperate-climate plants that mimic the look of tropical giants. Some thrive in shade, others withstand cooler temperatures, and many need surprisingly little maintenance once established.
Whether you have a small urban courtyard, a shaded backyard, or a larger space begging for visual drama, this list of 19 plants can help you build that dense, immersive atmosphere. From architectural ferns and glossy-leafed shrubs to tropical-lookalike perennials and hardy exotics, these species prove that you don’t need a jungle climate to grow a jungle garden.
Monstera Deliciosa
Known for its iconic split leaves, the Monstera Deliciosa adds a bold statement to any room. With its ability to thrive in indirect sunlight, this plant is perfect for bringing a tropical vibe indoors. Its leaves can grow impressively large, creating a dramatic focal point.
Though native to the rainforests of Central America, the Monstera adapts well to temperate climates. It requires minimal care, making it ideal for both newbies and seasoned plant lovers. Regular watering ensures its lush growth, but it’s forgiving if you forget occasionally.
Overall, this plant’s unique appearance and easygoing nature make it a must-have.
Fiddle Leaf Fig
With its large, glossy leaves, the Fiddle Leaf Fig brings an undeniable elegance to living spaces. This plant loves bright, filtered light and can grow several feet tall, making it a striking statement piece.
Originating from the tropical regions of Africa, it adapts well indoors with a bit of care. Ensure consistent watering and occasional leaf wiping to maintain its health. While it might be a bit fussy about its environment, the dramatic visual payoff is worth it.
In interiors, its presence evokes a sense of modern style fused with natural beauty.
Bird of Paradise
The Bird of Paradise is a true showstopper, with flowers resembling the plumage of an exotic bird. These striking blooms are complemented by lush, banana-like leaves.
Although native to South Africa, it flourishes in non-tropical climates too, given ample sunlight. As a garden centerpiece, its bold colors bring a touch of the tropics to temperate zones.
This plant not only adds height but also texture, making it a versatile choice for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Its vibrant appearance can transform any garden into an oasis.
Snake Plant
The Snake Plant, with its tall, sword-like leaves, is a staple for those seeking greenery without the fuss. It’s recognized for its ability to thrive on neglect, needing minimal water and even surviving low light conditions.
Originally from West Africa, this hardy plant is perfect for offices, bedrooms, or any low-maintenance garden interior. Beyond aesthetics, it’s known for air-purifying qualities, enhancing indoor air quality.
Its structural leaves add a contemporary touch, making it suitable for sleek, modern décor. Plus, with its resilience, it’s perfect for forgetful plant owners.
ZZ Plant
The ZZ Plant is famed for its striking, waxy foliage and robust nature, thriving even in low-light environments. Its ability to tolerate neglect makes it ideal for busy individuals or those new to plant care.
Though it hails from eastern Africa, it adapts well to varied conditions, including indoor spaces with little sunlight. It requires minimal watering, and its growth pattern adds a sculptural quality to interiors.
Aesthetically pleasing and practically indestructible, the ZZ Plant enhances any space with its glossy, dark green leaves.
Peace Lily
Peace Lilies are celebrated for their elegant white blooms and ability to purify the air. Their lush, green leaves add a touch of serenity to any room they inhabit.
Native to the tropical Americas, they adjust well to indoor life, preferring low to moderate sunlight. Regular watering keeps them happy, but they’ll tell you when they’re thirsty by wilting slightly.
Their graceful appearance and air-cleansing properties make them a popular choice. Ideal for creating a calming atmosphere, they suit both homes and offices with ease.
Rubber Plant
The Rubber Plant is notable for its broad, glossy leaves and robust growth. It thrives in bright, indirect light and can grow quite large indoors, adding a touch of the tropics.
Originating from Southeast Asia, it’s relatively easy to care for, needing consistent moisture and occasional cleaning of its leaves to prevent dust buildup. Its towering stature makes it a perfect floor plant.
For those seeking an indoor tree-like plant, the Rubber Plant provides both visual impact and ease of care, enhancing spaces with its rich green foliage.
Dracaena
Dracaenas are known for their striking leaf patterns and easy care. With a variety of species available, they offer visual interest with their often variegated leaves.
They hail from Africa, but have adapted well to indoor environments. Dracaenas thrive in indirect light and only need watering when the topsoil feels dry. They can grow tall, providing vertical element to interiors.
Their ability to purify the air while requiring minimal fuss makes them a favorite for those looking to add greenery effortlessly.
Philodendron
Philodendrons are beloved for their heart-shaped leaves and trailing growth habit, perfect for hanging baskets or cascading over shelves. They bring a sense of warmth and vitality to any space.
These plants are native to Central and South America, but their adaptability allows them to thrive in various conditions. They enjoy indirect sunlight and require watering when the soil feels dry.
Their lush foliage offers a splash of greenery, making them an excellent choice for any room needing a touch of nature’s embrace.
Bamboo Palm
The Bamboo Palm offers a graceful touch with its slender fronds reminiscent of bamboo stalks. It’s a great air purifier, and its low light tolerance makes it versatile for various indoor settings.
Originating from Central America, it adapts well indoors, growing best in filtered light and enjoying regular watering. Its height adds a dramatic flair, ideal for corners or hallways.
Embodying elegance, the Bamboo Palm transforms spaces with its airy, tropical feel, perfect for those aiming to recreate a serene, jungle-like atmosphere.
Cast Iron Plant
True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is virtually indestructible, handling neglect like a pro. With dark green, elongated leaves, it thrives in low light and requires minimal watering.
Native to Japan and Taiwan, it’s perfect for areas where other plants struggle. Its resilience and hardy nature make it a staple for those seeking a no-fuss addition to their plant collection.
Whether indoors or out, it stands as a testament to nature’s ability to endure, bringing a touch of greenery with minimal effort.
Pothos
Pothos is a go-to plant for its hardiness and vibrant, variegated leaves. Its trailing vines can brighten up any space, whether cascading from a shelf or hanging in a basket.
Originally from the Solomon Islands, Pothos adapts to both low and bright light conditions, making it a versatile houseplant option. It’s forgiving with irregular watering, thriving with just occasional attention.
Easy to propagate, it provides endless opportunities for expanding your indoor jungle. Its cheerful demeanor and resilience make it a beloved choice for plant enthusiasts.
Parlor Palm
The Parlor Palm is cherished for its feathery fronds and graceful appearance. It’s an ideal plant for creating a tranquil indoor setting, harking back to Victorian-era parlors.
It hails from the rainforests of Mexico and Guatemala, yet flourishes in low-light conditions common in indoor environments. The Parlor Palm requires minimal care, thriving with just occasional watering.
Its elegant form adds a touch of class and greenery, making it perfect for stylishly understated interiors. A calming presence, it’s a timeless addition to any home or office.
Croton
Croton plants are celebrated for their vividly colored leaves ranging from red to yellow and green. Their bold, brushstroke-like patterns make them a vibrant addition to any plant collection.
Native to tropical climates, Crotons thrive indoors with bright, indirect light and regular watering. While they may be a bit finicky about humidity and light, their visual reward is worth the extra effort.
Bringing a splash of color and life, Crotons are perfect for those looking to add a dynamic element to their indoor garden.
Spider Plant
Spider Plants are a classic choice, known for their arching leaves and easy care. Their distinctive green and white striped foliage adds a lively touch to any room.
They originate from South Africa but have become a favorite worldwide for their ability to thrive in a variety of conditions. Spider Plants are also excellent air purifiers, making them both attractive and beneficial.
Their cascading form and resilience make them ideal for hanging baskets or placement on high shelves, adding depth and interest to indoor spaces.
Elephant Ear
Elephant Ear plants are recognized for their enormous, heart-shaped leaves that command attention. These impressive leaves can create a lush backdrop in garden spaces or large indoor areas.
Although they originate from tropical regions, they adapt to non-tropical climates when provided with enough light and moisture. Their bold appearance lends a touch of the exotic to any setting.
Perfect for making a statement, Elephant Ears bring a sense of drama and breadth, transforming ordinary spaces into vibrant sanctuaries of green life.
Swiss Cheese Plant
The Swiss Cheese Plant is known for its distinctive leaves with natural holes, adding a quirky touch to its appearance. It thrives in bright, indirect light and maintains a moderate watering schedule.
Native to the tropical forests of Central and South America, it adapts well to indoor environments, providing an exotic look without demanding too much care. Its perforated foliage is a conversation starter, intriguing all who visit.
This plant is ideal for those looking to add a unique twist to their plant collection, complementing both modern and eclectic decor styles.
Majesty Palm
Majesty Palms bring a regal touch with their tall stature and graceful, arching fronds. They thrive in bright, indirect light and require regular watering to keep their foliage lush.
Originating from Madagascar, they adjust well to indoor climates, especially in spacious areas where they can spread their fronds freely. Their presence adds a sense of grandeur and tropical charm.
For those seeking to elevate their indoor greenery, the Majesty Palm offers both elegance and a touch of exotic allure, perfect for creating an inviting atmosphere.
Schefflera
Schefflera, also known as the umbrella plant, is valued for its glossy, radiating leaves that resemble the spokes of an umbrella. It’s a perfect choice for brightening up indoor spaces.
Native to Taiwan and Hainan, this plant thrives in indirect light, needing only moderate watering. Its distinctive foliage pattern adds a playful yet sophisticated touch to any decor.
Whether gracing a cozy nook or standing tall as a statement piece, Schefflera offers versatility and a touch of whimsy, making it a delightful addition to any plant lover’s home.