Top 20 Most Common Plants in Singapore

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Top 20 Most Common Plants in Singapore

In Singapore, you can find Heart of jesus, Golden pothos, Simpoh ayer, Chinese violet, Butterfly pea, and more! There are 20 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.

Most Common Plants

Heart of jesus

1. Heart of jesus

The heart of jesus is a poisonous leafy plant. Its paper-thin, heart-shaped leaves lend the plant its common nickname, along with names like "angel wings" and "elephant ear." Though native to South America, its primary hub of cultivation is now around Lake Placid, Florida, where it has become a popular centerpiece for an annual festival.

Golden pothos

2. Golden pothos

The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.

Simpoh ayer

Simpoh ayer (Dillenia suffruticosa) is a large evergreen shrub that is an effective colonizer of sandy soils since its deep roots can reach underground water. The plant flowers perpetually with five-petalled yellow blooms. The large leaves are commonly used in Southeast Asia for wrapping and eating food.

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Chinese violet

4. Chinese violet

Chinese violet (Asystasia gangetica) is an erect or climbing plant that can grow to be 91 cm tall. It has weak, hairy stems. It is an invasive plant with seeds that disperse and spread aggressively. Chinese violet is native to Africa but grows on nearly every continent.

Butterfly pea

5. Butterfly pea

Butterfly pea are revered as holy flowers in India and are utilized in everyday puja rituals. The flowers of this vine are shaped like human female genitals, hence the Latin name. This plant’s pods and leaves are eaten as vegetables, while the flowers are used as an organic food dye and in Ayurvedic medicine in Southeast Asia.

Bird's-nest fern

6. Bird's-nest fern

Bird's-nest fern (Asplenium nidus) is a fern species native to tropical Southeast Asia. The common name bird's-nest fern refers to the plant's central rosette where the fern's fronds unfurl. This part of the plant resembles miniature bird eggs.

Bay biscayne creeping oxeye

7. Bay biscayne creeping oxeye

Bay biscayne creeping oxeye (Sphagneticola trilobata) is a perennial ground cover that will grow to 25 cm tall. Native to Mexico, it is a member of the daisy family and produces sunflower-like blossoms that bloom throughout the year. Thrives in full sun and spreads rapidly. Considered invasive in Pacific coastal regions. Commonly found growing as a weed along roadsides, canals and streams. Cultivated as an ornamental ground cover.

Madagascar periwinkle

8. Madagascar periwinkle

The madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) is an evergreen subshrub or herbaceous plant. It has a long history of cultivation. Over the years, many cultivars have been developed, most commonly with the aim of incorporating new colors or making the plant more tolerant to cold.

Flame of the woods

9. Flame of the woods

The flame of the woods is a popular warm-weather garden shrub due to its versatility and unique, bright red leaves. It can be used as a hedge, in flower beds, or even grown as a small tree. The flame of the woods is also popular as a standalone patio plant because of its hardiness and distinctive appearance. The genus name, Ixora, was derived from a poorly transliterated rendition of the Hindu god, Shiva's name.

Malabar melastome

10. Malabar melastome

Malabar melastome is a tropical, evergreen shrub with pink to purple flowers. It needs consistent moisture to thrive. It is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. In some areas, it is considered a weed.

Snake plant

11. Snake plant

Snake plant can be considered a houseplant and an architectural display due to its sword-like leaves with bold striping patterns, which are distinctive and eye-catching. However, use caution with this plant because it is poisonous when ingested and can cause nausea, vomiting, and even swelling of the throat and tongue.

Dieffenbachia

12. Dieffenbachia

The focal point of a dieffenbachia is the beautiful look and patterns of the foliage, which are often variegated. This plant has showy white blooms, but only flowers in perfect conditions. Use caution, because the dieffenbachia is poisonous; if the sap is ingested it can cause muteness for up to two weeks by numbing the throat and vocal cords.

Ti plant

The ti plant is a palm-like shrub that symbolizes the connection between the living and the dead for some Austronesian cultures, having many ceremonial purposes. In practical terms, ti plant is used to make dyes and is grown for ornamentation.

Sweet basil

14. Sweet basil

Sweet basil is a species of mint plant native to Asia and Africa. It is a popular houseplant, and thrives when it receives plenty of regular sun and water. This plant is also easy to transfer from one soil environment to another. The edible sweet basil leaves can be eaten fresh or dried with pizza, salads, soups, teas, and many other dishes.

Corn plant

Corn plant (Dracaena fragrans) is an evergreen, slow-growing perennial shrub native to tropical Africa. Also, it is a classic houseplant, grown in Europe since the 1800s. Its glossy green foliage that resembles corn leaves grow on top of a thick cane, which is why the plant is sometimes called “false palm tree.”

Coatbuttons

16. Coatbuttons

Coatbuttons is native to the tropical Americas and has become an invasive weed around the world. It produces arrowhead-shaped yellow or white flowers and hard fruit covered with stiff hairs. This plant is regarded as invasive because it produces up to 1,500 of these hard fruits per plant and spreads easily, outcompeting native vegetation.

Shame plant

17. Shame plant

The Sensitive plant is aptly named for its distinctive response of curling up when touched, whereby its fernlike leaves fold inward. Although its purple fuzzy flowers make it a charming indoor plant, it is important to note that the plant contains alkaloids that can be harmful to both humans and animals.

Arrowhead plant

18. Arrowhead plant

Arrowhead plant (Syngonium podophyllum) is a beautiful foliage plant, one of the most popular species of the Araceae family. Due to its air purifying qualities and good looks, arrowhead plant is often cultivated as a houseplant. Every part of this plant is toxic, so it's best to keep it away from kids and pets.

Crepe ginger

19. Crepe ginger

Crepe ginger (Hellenia speciosa) is a plant species that is not drought tolerant. For optimal growth, this plant species must be watered regularly when cultivated as a houseplant. Crepe ginger grows best in partial to full shade.

Rubber tree

20. Rubber tree

Rubber tree (Ficus elastica) is a large tree with wide, oval, glossy leaves. Its milky white latex was used for making rubber before Pará rubber tree came into use, hence the name. Rubber tree is an ornamental species, often grown as a houseplant in cooler climates.

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More Plants in Singapore

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Most Common Toxic Plants

Singapore's warm, humid climate and abundant rainfall contribute to a diversity of plant life, including toxic species. While urbanization limits their spread, natural areas can harbor such plants. The presence of , , and indicates the environment's capability to sustain toxic flora. Careful management and public awareness are essential to mitigate potential risks associated with these plants.

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Most Common Flowers

Singapore's tropical climate and rich, well-drained soil provide an ideal environment for a diverse range of native flowers to thrive. Among them, three characteristic blossoms that bloom resplendently are , , and . These flowers, renowned for their visual beauty and ecological importance, contribute to the vibrant and diverse ecosystem of Singapore. From orchids to hibiscus, Singapore's native flowers symbolize the nation's natural heritage and are a sight to behold.

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Most Common Flowers of Spring

As Spring's warmth kisses Singapore, a transformation unfolds, coaxing a floral pageant of colors and scents. Signifying fresh beginnings, flowers such as burgeon, their brilliant hues embodying vibrancy. Alongside, unfurls, synonymous with the season's exuberance. Not to be overshadowed, adds its fragrance to the symphony, a reminder of nature's cyclical rebirth. These blossoms are not just eye-candy but pivotal in the local celebration of Spring's arrival.

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Most Common Spring Fruits

Spring in Singapore, though subtle, brings a moist warmth that encourages a burst of life, nourishing a plethora of flora. This season sees the ripening of , , and amidst a backdrop of urban greenery. These fruits, emblematic of Spring's vivacity, offer fresh treats that are integral to the local cuisine and cultural celebrations. Their harvest is a time-honored reflection of nature's perpetual renewal.

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Most Common Fruits

Singapore's year-round warm, humid tropical climate and well-draining alluvial soils provide a fertile ground for local fruit cultivation. Among the proud bearers of the region's agricultural heritage are , , and , each embedded in the local culture and cuisine. These fruit plants not only contribute to Singapore's unique biodiversity but also resonate with the traditional practices and culinary habits of its people, representing a delicious spectrum of the country's natural wealth.

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Most Common Trees

Singapore's tropical climate and rich soil create an ideal environment for a variety of native trees. Three emblematic trees in Singapore include , , and . These trees hold great significance both culturally and ecologically within the region. Their presence adds to the biodiversity and beauty of Singapore's landscape.

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Most Common Weeds

Singapore's hot, humid climate and abundant rainfall create an ideal habitat for a variety of garden weeds. In this tropical environment, , , and emerge as the most common culprits, tenaciously colonizing both manicured gardens and untamed landscapes. Their prevalence poses a continuous challenge for those endeavoring to maintain pristine green spaces, necessitating regular and strategic management to mitigate their unrelenting spread.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Nurtured by its equatorial climate, Singapore's fertile landscape is home to a plethora of towering giants. Among these, , , and stand as proud sentinels of Singapore’s rich botanical heritage, piercing the skyline with their impressive heights. These arboreal behemoths are not only a testament to the city's lush urban greening efforts but also serve as crucial ecological bastions, underscoring Singapore’s commitment to preserving biodiversity amidst urban sprawl.

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Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in Singapore may bring a serene cold, but it is also the time when certain flowers bravely blossom. Despite the chill, , , and bloom, showcasing their resilience and beauty. These winter flowers add a touch of color and symbolic depth to the frosty environment, highlighting the unique charm of Singapore's winter season.

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