I had the privilege of traveling to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico last week.
It was my first time in Mexico! Prior to the trip, my expectation of the landscape in Mexico was that it was lush, tropical, and green. Maybe I was picturing Hawaii? And then when we landed in Cabo, I was surprised to see how dry, mountainous, desert-like, and brown it was. And maybe it was just the part of Mexico that I was in, not sure. But the landscape was nonetheless beautiful.
Not only was I in paradise, lounging by the infinity pool that looked like it spilled into the ocean. But I was also in paradise getting to look at all the unique plant life. Cacti, succulents, and palm trees were the three groups that dominated the landscape. But at our resort there were these large “trees.” Look at the pic below. Can you tell what those large green trees are?
I had never seen one so big. It’s a hibiscus! They had a few blooms, but mostly were just getting ready to bloom. Day timed temperatures were only in the mid 70s, and nighttime temps were as low as the upper 50s. And with only about 60% humidity, we couldn’t have asked for better weather!
Despite the cacti and succulents stealing the show, I was reminded that palm trees are vital to capturing the tropical feel in a landscape. If you’re looking to level up the tropical feel of your landscape around your home or pool, consider adding some fan, lady (for the shade), sago or windmill palms, they’re the most cold hardy. But if you want an “airier” tropical look, queen or pygmy date palm are great choices for you. Just be aware that they’re a little less cold hardy. Happy Palm Planting!
Written By John MacMillan
