Tropical flowers are usually famous for their showy appearance and bright colors. Acanthus plants are good representatives, as most of them have colorful blossoms and patterned leaves.

The firecracker flower boasts narrow leaves and flowers that are pale, peachy or coral. When blossoming, the flowers shoot from their green tubular bracts, which could be why they are called firecracker flowers.

This flower needs very little to grow. However, because it is a tropical plant, exposure to cold air can affect its bloom. An uncrowded, draft-free area with indirect light and high humidity will make the flower thrive. Also, misting the foliage is helpful, but the flower does not need mist.

The zebra plant is another member of the Acanthus family. It is famous for its striped foliage instead of the flower, although its bright, yellow blossom does look attractive.

Zebra plants are popular for greenhouse growing. The veins on the leaves usually have colors of silver and gold, and the silver one is listed as "endangered" on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

This plant is a pure jungle plant, which means it prefers humid climate and covered conditions to grow better. The same as the firecracker flower, it needs a warm temperature, indirect light and moist soil to thrive and bloom.

These two lovely plants are in the botanical garden at the Beijing International Horticultural Expo. Check them out if you plan to visit.

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(Cover image via VCG. Designed by CGTN's Yin Yating)

(Video filmed by CGTN's Shen Hui, edited by CGTN's Xu Chenlu)

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