Tropical plants by definition love warmth and humidity. Most are indigenous to areas central to the equator, between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. Some tropical plants, however, propagate in cooler climates and in zones with less humidity. When planting or maintaining tropical plants outdoors, where they are totally at the mercy of the weather, be sure to consider which ones are freeze and/or cold-tolerant. While there are not many there are a few, and planning your outdoor gardens accordingly will save your investment. Cactus and succulents, while considered tropical plants, are ones which thrive in more desert-like settings. When caring for tropical plants, as closely as possible, replicate the natural conditions and requirements to the climate zone in which they are indigenous. This will help ensure that your plants are happy, healthy, and far less prone to disease and other maladies occurring from unnecessary struggles.