ideas on creating a new tropical looking garden

Thank you all for your replies. I have been taking note.

I have a fast draining wide border which is SW facing next to the garage wall. The roof overhangs and shades it till 11-12 though, then it gets full sun till sundown. Can I plant the likes of say a Canary Palm or a Trachycarpus in what is part shade? I can see them liking how dry the soil is but am unsure about the shade till noon.

 

I would say canary palm will prefer warmer temp, beside even in hot countries it is very slow growing ( but beautiful when large) .
Trachycarpus will grow with really no problem, once establish will survive any winter in Fife - again try to get large plant as your budget let you as in their first years are fairly slow growing plants. It can also tolerate some shade. ( there severalvarities but all are hardy once large and planted in the soil.

 

Thank you - much appreciated advice.