I don't know enough about shrubs or tropicals to answer your question, but I'll bet a lot of people on the Carolina forum could answer it. If you haven't done it already, try asking there. There are a lot of knowledgeable gardeners on that forum (they're funny too).

I'm a bit farther southward than you, but I'll throw out a few suggestions. For a tropical look you might try canna lilies, elephant ears, caladums and some gingers. These should all hold up well to your hot, humid summers. And except for the elephant ears and the gingers that would like a bit of shade from the afternoon sun, all will hold up to full sun. You might need to dig and store the roots in winter though.
Start haunting the local nurserys and shamelessly stare at your neighbors gardens for hints about what will grow well in your landscape. Good luck and have fun.