Plants

Some of Costa Rica’s plants, like coffee and orchids, get all the attention. But the truth is, the bushes, flowers, and trees that cover the nation’s vast landscapes are all incredible. From rainbow-colored heliconias to the emerald-green epiphytes that drip from cloud forest trees, Costa Rica’s vibrant colors are owed in great part to the nation’s spectacular plant life. The weather here makes an excellent home for plants from all over the world and apart from their beauty, plants growing in Costa Rica have long been sources of traditional remedies.

Whether you're a seasoned biologist, a photographer, or simply a nature enthusiast, you'll be captivated by the beauty of the majestic landscapes, the beautiful trees, plants, flowers, and animals found in Costa Rica. All regions of Costa Rica offer a richness of natural attractions where you'll be able to enjoy the plant life. From nature hikes and horseback rides to walks along hanging bridges and underground cave excursions.

Come with us on an exploration of some of Costa Rica’s most iconic and unique rooted species.

• The most common class of flowering plants in Costa Rica is the heliconia, you won't miss them when visiting the country because they are large, colorful, and tropical-looking flowers.

• If you're an orchid lover, you’ll be in for a treat. These unique and colorful flowers grow wild in Costa Rica and are considered to be some of the most beautiful in the world. Also, if you're looking for a more educational experience, there are botanical gardens where you'll learn and admire them from up close.
• Most orchid species in Costa Rica are native plants of the region, which makes them even more unique.
• It's possible to find orchids in a variety of sizes and with abundant flowering.
• Fun fact: the national flower of Costa Rica is called “Guaria Morada”, which translates to "Purple Country Girl," and it's the exquisite purple orchid at the beginning of this page!

• There are approximately 800 varieties of fern that grow wild in the rainforests of Costa Rica.
• Ferns do not produce flowers or seeds, but rather reproduce by spores.

• The majority of bromeliads in Costa Rica are air plants, but some also grow in the ground. They are considered masters of adaptation. Living virtually on air, water and sunshine, they are remarkably resistant plants.

• In Costa Rica, we have an impressive number of species of trees. Many of them coexist in the rainforests, cloud forests, mountains, and costal landscapes of Costa Rica.
• Fun fact: The national tree of Costa Rica is the “Guanacaste tree” (shown in the picture above!) and it's so majestic that you won't be able to miss it. What is most impressive about this famous tree is that it continues to grow strong and resilient through the hardest of seasons.

Are you ready to discover a colorful world of plants in Costa Rica? Our local travel experts will design your custom getaway to Costa Rica. Check out examples of the eco-friendly trips you can have!