I really like my ornamental rhubarb. Here's a picture from last year.

I've also got Petasites japonicus. I've measured it's leaves at 33" across....it always attracts attention.
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Laurie

Thanks Laurie, it is great that you responded.

I'm on my second rheum palmatum - I think that is the rhubarb you have - the first succumbed to some fungal invasion. The second one is looking pretty wimpy so far.

I have read that the Japanese Butterbur is very invasive - have you found that to be a problem? The spot I want for it would always get good watering, but it is in full sun all day. Do you think the plant would die there? Or, do you think it would live, but would not be able to be real invasive?

dln949

Petasites Japonicus Giganteus is another one with large leaves, tolerates a variety of soils (but likes moisture) and spreads like crazy. It's survived here in zone 3 in a spot with great snowcover.

If you want tropical-looking plants, don't just go for ones with huge leaves. Others with fine ferny foliage can look tropical as well, or ones with unusual blossoms, colorful variegated leaves, interesting seed pods, etc.

Catalpa ovata or catalpa speciosa: some say these trees have a tropical-appearance with large leaves, small orchid-like blooms, and seed pods that resemble hanging beans. Other tropical-looking trees include the sumac, but use with caution (it suckers).

Most grasses seem tropical in the right setting and used in contrast with other plants. Many types available. One of the largest is miscanthus giganteus (Giant Chinese Silver Grass). Hardy to zone 4, it survived one zone 3 winter thus far and here it reached about 6 feet high. In warmer climates it grows taller.

Most ferns, even hardy ones, resemble tropical plants. The ostrich fern is one of the easiest to grow.

Hardy yucca, yucca filamentosa gives the 'desert' type of tropical theme.

Even regular garden rhubarb looks tropical in the right setting, once established and huge. Especially if contrasting plants like grasses (with contrasting leaf colors or shapes) nearby.

Glen