Club TROPICANA

Introduce a holiday vibe with imposing, exotic-style plants

- CHRIS MORLEY

Lush canopy

Tropicals include plants from hot climates, as well as 'lookalikes' that have similar features but don't bat an eyelid at a wet and cold UK winter. For lookalikes, think large, glossy leaves and bright blooms. As well as bringing a sense of drama to a space, large specimens, such as bananas, help draw your vision upwards - a design trick that makes a small garden feel bigger. Plus, that leafy canopy blocks out any uninspiring or unsightly neighbouring views, and creates a cosy, secluded space where you can just kick back and relax.

Leaf encounters