What Tropical Plants Can Be Planted on a Rocky Hillside?

Geography

• Tropical plants thrive in rocky hillsides throughout the world. They can be found in the deserts of Oman with shrubs from the Caper family, to the ocean-swept slopes of California with the Manzanita tree.

Rocky Soil

• Most plants prefer soil that drains well, retains moisture and is fertile. Unfortunately, the characteristics of rocky soil do not hold these qualities. However, it is possible to plant tropical shrubs in these areas by using the "no dig" gardening method of placing other layers of soil above the rock outcropping.

Misconceptions

• Although some people might guess that a rain forest is the only place where tropical plants can grow, these plants can actually thrive on rocky hillsides and in dry environments. For example, many plants in dry tropical areas have water-storing trunks to survive.

Recommended Species

• Tropical plant species that survive on rocky hillsides include the Frankincense tree (Boswellia sacra), relatives of the Oleander tree (Adenium species) and almost all types of Manzanita shrubs. Consider the benefits of planting native varieties, because they are apt to be more successful in preventing erosion.

Fun Fact

• The Frankincense tree, which is native to rocky hillside slopes in the dry tropical region of Oman, has many uses to humans. One of its most famous products is a gum that is excreted from the bark and used as aromatic incense in religious ceremonies.