• Tropical houseplants can add an exotic look to your home and they don't necessarily require a lot of extra care. Place tropical plants in temperate rooms that don't experience drafts, and keep them away from radiators or other sources of heat. Choose a tropical tree or houseplant that fits your room; some grow quite large, while others are suited to small spaces.
  
  

Pygmy Date Palm

• The pygmy date palm (Phoenix roebelenii) grows up to 12 feet tall, but is extremely slow growing. According to Clemson University, it takes several years for the low palm to develop a trunk. This palm grows in low-light conditions and is suitable for offices and large interior rooms. Place this palm in low light, but not in corners. The long, fringed leaves can grow up to 3 feet long.
  
  

Tree Philodendron

• This tree is suitable for growing as an indoor houseplant in large atriums and office buildings. Tree philodendron (Philodendron bipinnatifidum) can reach 15 feet in both width and height. Its large cut leaves can grow up to 3 feet apiece. This plant grows on one long stem with leaf scars, resulting in a crosshatched pattern similar to those of palm trees. Native to South America, these plants dislike full sun and require little care.
  
  

Sansevieria

• Frequently called snake plant or mother-in-law's tongue, sansevieria is native to tropical and subtropical parts of Asia, Africa and Europe. There are 70 species of sansevieria, according to the University of Illinois. These plants grow in low light and drought, remove toxins from the air and do not experience insect pests. The leaves of sansevieria resemble large blades of grass. They may have silver or yellow striping but are mostly green. Some varieties grow up to 3 feet tall.
  
  

Hibiscus

• Hibiscus grows indoors and outdoors.Hibiscus 1 image by Nicolas Richer from Fotolia.com
  
  Hibiscus grows outdoors in tropical regions and can be grown as a houseplant in temperate climates. This shrub produces large papery flowers in bright tones of red, pink, yellow, peach and white. Gardeners should watch for insect pests including spider mites and aphids. Hibiscus can reach 8 feet tall and 5 feet wide, though gardeners can limit its size by regular pruning. Place indoor hibiscus in areas where it receives direct sun for half a day.