Tropical Plants in Houston

 This zone is considered tropical and many tropical plants will thrive in these areas, though winter temperatures can freeze, but summers can be hot and humid .
 When looking for tropical plants for Zone 8, be sure to check for frost tolerance. Zone 8 on the Map is defined as a wide swath of the middle South, including Gainesville, Florida; Mobile, Alabama and Houston, Texas. The zone reaches as far north as Tifton, Georgia and Dallas, Texas. 
 Many tropical plants may require special fertilizers or pest control. We here at nmc  woodlands tree care provide care for palms and other tropical plants.
 
Camellia
The Camellia (Camellia) is a staple in southern landscapes for its glossy, green foliage and showy blooms, which resemble roses. Available as evergreen shrubs or small trees, there are more than 3,000 named Camellias. These plants like mild winters and warm summers of Houston.

Camellias are best suited for dappled or partial shade. They require regular to moderate water, and well-draining, neutral to slightly acidic soil. Protect in frost.
 
Myrtle
Myrtle is an evergreen shrub that can be kept trimmed as a hedge plant or allowed to grow to its full height, which could be up to 15 feet.
  Myrtles have glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers in summer. Myrtles also offer a little fall or winter color with edible dark-colored berries. In Houston, protect from the hot summer sun and planted in partial shade. In winter, myrtles will die back from frost, but usually revive  in spring. Myrtles thrive with little water after establishment, and prefer neutral to slightly alkaline soil.

 Pineapple Guava
 Pineapple guava is originally from South America and is recognized as one of the hardiest sub-tropical fruits. An evergreen shrub or small tree, the pineapple guava can grow to 25 feet and works well as a hedge or screen. This plant produces a small fruit (2 to 4 inches long) that resembles a guava and has a creamy, mint-guava flavor.
 
 Best suited for the northern part of zone 8, pineapple guava thrives in climates with mild summers and will not survive the heat and humidity possible in the southern part of the zone. This plant is hardy to 10 degrees Pineapple guava likes full sun and regular water and should be planted in neutral to slightly acidic soil.