Tropical wallpaper

Tropical wallpaper brings the lush mood of the jungle, the palm garden and far-off coastlines into your home, giving a wall a warm, exotic character in one stroke. The theme thrives on green in all its shades, from deep jade to fresh fern, often set off with accents of terracotta, ochre, coral red or ink blue. Anyone who loves a home that comes alive and carries a hint of holiday feeling will find a rewarding starting point here.

Where tropical wallpaper looks its best

Thanks to the full leaf motifs and the lively use of colour, this theme has its strongest effect on a wall that is allowed to take centre stage. The wall behind a bed comes beautifully to life with it, a hallway gains atmosphere the moment you step inside and above the dining table it makes the evening a touch warmer. In a smaller space such as a cloakroom or a small utility room you can happily cover every wall, because the abundance of leaves is exactly what makes a compact spot exciting. If you prefer something calmer, choose a single accent wall and keep the remaining walls in a muted, solid tone that lets the green breathe.

Motifs and mood of tropical wallpaper

Within this theme the designs vary widely. On one side are the exuberant jungle scenes with overlapping palm and banana leaves, ferns and climbing plants that turn a wall into a green oasis. On the other are the refined botanical prints in which a single blossoming branch or a bird of paradise sets the tone. Exotic animals often play a leading part, from cockatoos and flamingos to leopards sitting half hidden among the foliage. If you are curious about related styles, our jungle wallpaper, the floral wallpaper and the animal wallpaper connect seamlessly to this theme.

Materials and finish

The choice of material largely determines the look. A matte non-woven base gives the leaves a graphic, painterly depth, while a subtle metallic sheen makes the green light up in the evening as if the sun were falling on it. For a more natural effect, tropical designs sit beautifully with wallpaper that has a tactile texture, which reinforces the organic mood of the theme. In rooms with more moisture, such as a bathroom, you are better off with a moisture-resistant version; for that, take a look at our bathroom wallpaper.

Combining and styling

This theme calls for natural materials that carry the botanical mood through the room. Rattan, woven baskets, warm woods and linen curtains create a relaxed balance, so the whole stays inviting rather than busy. Keep furniture and accessories deliberately understated, so the wall keeps the leading role. A few cushions in a colour picked out of the design, a coral red or a warm ochre yellow, pull the picture together effortlessly and finish the room.

Buying tropical wallpaper at Selected Wallpapers

Order a sample first, so you can judge the colours and the texture at home, beside your own furniture and in your own light. If you are unsure about the number of rolls, use the wallpaper calculator to work out the right amount. Should you have questions about a particular design or want tailored advice on hanging it, our team is glad to help, so you can be sure the design suits your interior. International shipping, duties & taxes included.