Helpful Websites

Trusted websites and organizations for plant lovers and exotic pet owners

Over the years, we’ve discovered many valuable resources for plant enthusiasts, gardeners, and exotic pet owners. These carefully selected websites offer reliable information, quality plants, and expert guidance.

Whether you’re looking for general gardening information, tropical plant suppliers, or specialized resources, these links will help you expand your knowledge and find the plants you need.

Note: External websites are provided as a courtesy. We are not responsible for the content or availability of external sites. Always verify plant safety and growing requirements for your specific situation.

🌍

General Plant Information

These resources offer comprehensive gardening information, plant databases, and horticultural expertise from trusted institutions.

🌱

Garden Net

Garden Community

Online gardening community with forums, plant databases, and expert advice from fellow gardeners around the world.

💡 Great for: Community support, plant identification

🏛️

Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew

World-Renowned Institution

One of the world’s most prestigious botanical institutions, featuring extensive plant databases, research, and conservation information.

💡 Great for: Scientific information, plant research
🌴

Tropical & Unusual Plants

Specialty nurseries offering tropical plants, rare species, and expert cultivation advice. These suppliers are known for quality plants and excellent customer service.

Rare tropical plants including gingers, bananas, and plumerias

Specializes in hard-to-find tropical plants for all USDA zones. Excellent selection of gingers, bananas, plumerias, anthuriums, and exotic species. Quality plants with nationwide shipping to botanical gardens and enthusiasts.

Edible landscaping, including nice simple bamboo how-to

Specializes in edible landscaping plants and bamboo. Their straightforward bamboo growing guides are particularly helpful for beginners.

Many orchid sites

A comprehensive directory connecting you to numerous orchid suppliers, growers, and resources all in one convenient location.

Wonderful selection of tropics and info

Outstanding tropical plant selection combined with detailed care information. Perfect for both beginners and experienced tropical plant enthusiasts.

Nice selection, nice photos

Well-established greenhouse specializing in tropical and subtropical plants. Their high-quality photography helps you see exactly what you’re ordering.

Great site…check out their links…wow!

Exceptional nursery with an amazing website full of plant information and an extensive collection of useful gardening links. A must-visit resource!

Water plants and accessories

Specialized supplier of aquatic plants and water garden accessories. Everything you need for creating beautiful water features and pond gardens.

💡

Making the Most of These Resources

🔍 Research Before You Buy

Use multiple sources to verify plant safety, especially if you have exotic pets. Cross-reference information with our Safe Plants list and consult your avian veterinarian when in doubt.

🌱 Know Your Growing Zone

Understanding your USDA hardiness zone helps you choose plants that will thrive in your climate. Many suppliers provide zone information for each plant they offer.

🏷️ Use Scientific Names

When ordering plants, always verify the scientific name (genus and species). Common names can vary by region and may refer to different plants entirely.

🌿 Go Organic

When purchasing plants for bird rooms or aviaries, ask suppliers about their growing practices. Organic or chemical-free plants are always the safest choice for exotic pets.

🛡️ Safety First

Remember: Even plants listed as “safe” on general plant lists may have been treated with pesticides, fungicides, or other chemicals that are toxic to birds and exotic pets. Always:

  • Ask about chemical treatments before purchasing
  • Wash and quarantine new plants before introducing them to pet areas
  • Verify the plant’s identity with scientific nomenclature
  • Consult our Toxic Plants and Safe Plants pages

Need More Plant Safety Information?

Explore our comprehensive guides on safe and toxic plants