Skip to content

5 Tropical Plants You Can Grow Indoors (Even If You Don't Live in Hawaii)

Credit: The Spruce / Cara Cormack

Hey there, fellow plant enthusiast! Dreaming of that lush Hawaiian vibe but stuck in a city apartment or a chilly climate? You're in luck. Growing tropical plants indoors is easier than you think, and it's a fantastic way to transform your home into a mini paradise. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned green thumb, these picks will thrive with a bit of love—and hey, why not tend to them in style? Slip into some breezy jams pants from JAMS World for ultimate comfort while you water and prune. As the premier clothing line for vibrant, island-inspired pieces like Hawaiian print dresses, kimonos, robes, pareos, rayon shirts, hats, and tote bags, JAMS World brings that tropical flair to your wardrobe too.

In this guide, we'll dive into five stunning tropical houseplants that adapt well to indoor life. We'll cover care basics like light, water, and soil, plus tips to keep them happy. And because we're all about that aloha spirit, we'll weave in how JAMS World's comfy, chic attire enhances your at-home gardening sessions. Let's get growing!

Tending to your indoor tropics in stylish Hawaiian print pants and a simple top. Tending to your indoor tropics in stylish Hawaiian print pants and a simple top.

1. Monstera Deliciosa (Swiss Cheese Plant)

This iconic tropical stunner, with its large, split leaves, screams "jungle vibes" and is perfect for adding drama to your living room. Native to rainforests, it's surprisingly forgiving indoors.

  • Light: Bright, indirect sunlight—think near a window with sheer curtains. Avoid direct sun to prevent leaf scorch.

  • Water: Keep soil moist but not soggy; water when the top inch feels dry, about once a week.

  • Soil: Well-draining potting mix with perlite for aeration.

  • Tips: Wipe leaves monthly to remove dust, and support climbing vines with a moss pole. If you're propagating cuttings, do it in your favorite JAMS World rayon shirt—those breathable fabrics keep you cool during the messy fun!

For more on Monstera care, check out this guide from The Spruce.

2. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia)

Bring a touch of exotic blooms indoors with this plant's striking orange and blue flowers that resemble a bird in flight. It's a Hawaiian favorite that thrives as a houseplant.

  • Light: Full, bright indirect light; it loves south-facing windows.

  • Water: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings—every 1-2 weeks, depending on humidity.

  • Soil: Rich, loamy mix that drains well.

  • Tips: Boost humidity with a pebble tray or misting. Pair it with a colorful Hawaiian print dress from JAMS World for that effortless island elegance while you admire its blooms.

Learn advanced tips from House Beautiful's tropical plants list.

Comfy JAMS World jams pants, perfect for lounging and plant care. Comfy JAMS World jams pants, perfect for lounging and plant care.

3. Anthurium (Flamingo Flower)

Known for its glossy heart-shaped leaves and vibrant red or pink spathes, this plant adds a pop of color like a perpetual Hawaiian lei.

  • Light: Medium to bright indirect light; too little, and blooms fade.

  • Water: Keep consistently moist; water when top soil is dry, but never let it fully dry out.

  • Soil: Orchid mix or something airy to prevent root rot.

  • Tips: Fertilize monthly during growth season. While repotting, rock some JAMS World jams world clothing—those relaxed fits make bending and lifting a breeze.

4. Bromeliad

These epiphytic wonders, with rosettes of colorful leaves and potential blooms, mimic the wild Hawaiian forests. They're low-maintenance and air-purifying.

  • Light: Bright, filtered light; east or west windows work best.

  • Water: Fill the central cup with water and change it weekly; soil should stay lightly moist.

  • Soil: Loose, well-draining—use a bromeliad or orchid mix.

  • Tips: After blooming, pups appear for easy propagation. Tend to them in a cozy JAMS World robe for that ultimate at-home spa feel.

For eco-friendly care ideas, see the Rainforest Alliance's houseplant guide.

5. Ti Plant (Cordyline Fruticosa)

A Hawaiian good-luck charm with vibrant pink, green, or purple foliage, it's like wearing nature's jewelry indoors.

  • Light: Bright indirect to partial shade; variegated types need more light.

  • Water: Moderate; let top soil dry before watering to avoid over-saturation.

  • Soil: Fertile, well-draining potting soil.

  • Tips: Prune for bushiness and watch for spider mites. Style your space by accessorizing with a JAMS World tote bag to carry supplies—practical and pretty!

Pairing Guide: Match Your Plants with JAMS World Pieces

Why stop at plants? Elevate your indoor oasis by pairing them with complementary JAMS World clothing and accessories. For instance:

  • Monstera Magic: Team its bold leaves with flowy jams pants and a matching rayon shirt for a relaxed, tropical lounge look.

  • Bird of Paradise Boldness: Accent with a vibrant Hawaiian print dress and a hat from our accessories collection for sunny window vibes.

  • Anthurium Elegance: Pair with a kimono or pareo over basics—perfect for casual home days.

  • Bromeliad Brightness: Add a tote bag to store tools, blending function with our signature prints.

  • Ti Plant Tranquility: Wrap up in a robe for evening checks, and toss on a headwrap for flair.

Not sure what suits you? Take our Find Your JAMS World Flow: Personal Style Profile quiz to discover pieces that match your vibe!

A stunning JAMS World Hawaiian print dress to complement your green haven. A stunning JAMS World Hawaiian print dress to complement your green haven.

What Our Customers Say

Don't just take our word for it—here's what plant-loving shoppers are saying about JAMS World:

"I love to shop here at the factory store. Exceptional products and great sales."

"10/16/2024 went to the factory Store today before flying home!! What a beautiful place!! And to peek in back with all the rows of beautiful materials and extra inventory. A man was cutting fabric. I can’t wait to wear my new Hattie style dress. 👗 They even went in back and found a size for me! They had been closed but now that Ala Moana closed (international marketplace still open) they reopened this facility for sales. Have been doing Jams since 1964. 60 year anniversary. Congrats. The store has so much old memorabilia."

Ready to bring the tropics home? Start with these plants, then shop JAMS World's collection for that perfect blend of comfort and style. Browse our women's line, men's essentials, or accessories today. Have questions? Contact us—we're here to help you live aloha every day. Shop now and let the paradise begin! 🌺

Explore Our Wearable Art

Each Jams World piece starts as a work of art, inspired by the vibrant life and culture of Hawaii. Discover the iconic prints and timeless styles that tell a story.

Shop The Collection
LR

Lei Rowan

Jams World Editorial Team