With warm weather year-round, ample rain and sunshine, and different environments from mountains to beaches, Puerto Rico has a rich diversity of plant life. The trees, vines, shrubs, grasses, flowers and other plants across the island make Puerto Rico the green oasis that it is. Some of Puerto Rico’s plants are native to the island, while many have been introduced over the past couple of centuries. Certain species of plants that grow on the island are easily identifiable due to their popularity as houseplants, and – if you know what you’re looking for – you may be able to find them on your next trip to Puerto Rico.
Golden Pothos
Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant, grown for its trailing vines and attractive variegated (varying in color from dark green to white) leaves, and it has relatively simple care requirements. Because golden pothos grows easily, it has become abundant in tropical areas across the world, but it is native to the South Pacific, according to The Spruce. When allowed to grow on a tall object like a tree, the leaves of the plant become larger and fenestrate, or split, giving wild golden pothos a different look from its domestic counterpart. If you’re looking for golden pothos in the wild, seek large, variegated, fenestrated leaves on vines growing up trees.
Snake Plant
Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata), another common, easy-to-grow houseplant, can be found in Puerto Rico, although it is native to West Africa, according to Country Living. Snake plants have become common in tropical areas and thrive in the sandy soil of Puerto Rico’s coastline. In nature, snake plants closely resemble their houseplant form, but they can grow significantly taller.
Seagrape
Unlike some other plants on this list, Seagrape (Coccoloba uvifera) is native to the Americas and Puerto Rico is part of its natural range. While occasionally grown as a houseplant, seagrape is more popular as an outdoor tree or shrub, as it can grow quite large with attractive leaves and edible fruit, according to the University of Florida. The edible fruit of the seagrape is similar in taste, color and size to grapes, hence its name. Seagrape can be found growing on shorelines, where it plays an important role in preventing erosion.
Philodendron
Many different philodendron species are popular as houseplants and come from various parts of the Americas and the Caribbean. According to the USDA, Giant Philodendron (Philodendron Giganteum) grows in tropical rainforests and is native to Puerto Rico. In Puerto Rico, giant philodendrons can be found most abundantly in El Yunque, but they can grow in other humid areas. Due to its impressive size, large leaves, ease in growing and tolerance for varying amounts of light, giant philodendron is commonly grown as a houseplant.
Whether you’re a houseplant fan or prefer to keep greenery outdoors, Puerto Rico’s natural landscape offers an excellent escape into the wilderness. When you book your stay with Maria’s, you can enjoy the natural beauty of Puerto Rico from luxury accommodations. When you’re ready to stay with us, booking is done through Twin Palms, Maria’s rental, and onsite management. Please visit our booking page on this website to view the availability of Maria’s and fill out our convenient contact form. If you have any additional questions regarding Maria’s, you may call Elizabeth at 787-685-6648 (español: Cristina at 787-449-3673).
My husband and I had our wedding and reception at Maria’s. We rented the property for three days/nights. We wanted to make our destination wedding as accessible as possible for our family and friends. Maria’s was the perfect place. Twelve of our closest friends and family shared the house. I was so impressed that Maria’s had everything we needed, even little things like laundry detergent.