Want to start growing exotic plants but worried it will be difficult? This collection features our selection of species that germinate easily and forgive beginners’ mistakes - from frost-hardy palms (Trachycarpus, Chamaerops), through eye-catching banana plants and yuccas, to easy-going prickly pears and trees. An ideal first step before you move on to rarer specimens.
All species on this list germinate under typical home conditions: warmth, a light growing medium and consistent moisture. To get started, all you need is a pot or a simple propagator, while a heating mat can be useful in a cooler home.
What you will find in this category
Frost-hardy palms and palms for containers - windmill palms (Trachycarpus fortunei, T. wagnerianus), Mediterranean fan palms (Chamaerops humilis), sabal palms and date palms. Find more species in the palm seeds category.
Banana plants - Musa velutina, Musa sikkimensis, Musa ingens and Ensete. They grow quickly and look impressive in their very first season. See also banana plant seeds.
Yuccas and prickly pears - drought-tolerant species, many of which can withstand frost. Find the full selection in the yucca seeds and succulent seeds categories.
Trees - albizias, acacias, jacaranda and the flame tree, all rewarding to grow from seed. Find more in the tree seeds category.
How to get started - three rules
Warmth - most exotic species germinate best at temperatures of 22-28°C.
Light growing medium - well-drained seed-starting soil with added perlite or coco coir helps prevent seed rot.
Patience - palms and yuccas can take several weeks to germinate. Do not discard your sowing after 10 days.
Frequently asked questions
Which exotic seeds are easiest for beginners?
Good choices for a first sowing include the windmill palm, Mediterranean fan palm, Musa velutina and Musa sikkimensis banana plants, yuccas and prickly pears.
Do I need any special equipment?
No. A pot, light growing medium and a warm place are enough. A propagator and heating mat speed up and make germination easier.
Do the seeds come with instructions?
Yes, we include sowing instructions with every order, and you can find detailed guides on our blog.
