Table of Contents
Gardening in Zone 7 offers a unique climate that allows for a diverse range of plants. However, some plants are more sensitive to frost and require extra protection or careful planning. In this article, we explore the top 10 frost-sensitive plants ideal for Zone 7 gardeners.
1. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
The Fiddle Leaf Fig is a popular indoor plant known for its large, glossy leaves. It is highly sensitive to cold temperatures and should be kept indoors or in a protected environment during winter in Zone 7.
2. Gardenia
Gardenias produce fragrant white flowers and require warm, humid conditions. Frost can damage their delicate buds and leaves, so they are best grown in containers that can be moved indoors when cold weather approaches.
3. Canna Lily
Canna lilies are vibrant, tropical-looking plants that thrive in warm weather. Frost can kill their rhizomes, so they should be dug up and stored indoors in colder months.
4. Banana Plant (Musa spp.)
Banana plants add a tropical feel to gardens but are extremely frost-sensitive. In Zone 7, they must be grown in containers and brought inside during winter or treated as annuals.
5. Caladium
Caladiums are admired for their colorful, heart-shaped foliage. They are not frost-tolerant and should be dug up and stored in a cool, dry place over winter in Zone 7.
6. Elephant Ear (Colocasia spp.)
Elephant Ears are large, dramatic foliage plants that require warm temperatures. Frost can damage or kill these plants, so they should be lifted and stored indoors or in a protected area.
7. Passionflower (Passiflora spp.)
Passionflowers are vigorous vines with striking flowers. They are sensitive to frost and should be grown in containers or protected locations during colder months.
8. Taro (Colocasia esculenta)
Taro is a tropical root vegetable with large, decorative leaves. Frost can damage the plant, so it should be grown in containers and moved indoors when temperatures drop.
9. Hibiscus (Hardy varieties excluded)
While some hardy hibiscus varieties tolerate cold, many tropical hibiscus are frost-sensitive. They require protection or indoor placement during winter in Zone 7.
10. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
The Bird of Paradise is a stunning tropical plant that cannot withstand frost. It must be grown in containers and brought indoors or protected during cold spells.