13 Plants to Buy Instead of Paying Rent This Month

Houseplants are really having a moment. Is it because it's a fun and exciting hobby that provides joy and fulfillment? Or is it the fact that we've all be locked inside for almost a year and are willing to do almost anything just to feel shred of joy? Who can say. 

Due to this explosions of plant enthusiasts there is now a thriving exotic plant market where some spend thousands on rare plants to add to their collections. But even if you are ready and willing to drop some serious cash on plants you might not be able to get your hands on them. Most of these plants sell out within minutes of becoming available. 

Keep reading to see what all the fuss is about and find your next plant crush!

Monstera

Monstera is a genus of tropical plants native to Central and South America. Most common is Monstera Deliciosa, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant. They become popular in the 1970s due to the desire to create 'indoor jungles' and are marked by their distinctive split leaves. In the wild they produce a sweet fruit that is described as a cross between pineapple and banana, hence the name deliciosa.  
So what causes a monstera to rocket in price? Variegation, which is the appearance of different colours on a plant's leaves. There is a few causes of variegation in monstera but the one that brings in the big bucks is genetic mutation as it allows owners to propagate new plants that also have variegation. 

1. Monstera Thai Constellation $395

 

 

Listed on Canadian Rare Plants, this can be yours for a mere $395. It's named its the galaxy-esque variegation.

 

2. Monstera Albo Borsigiana $1,350

 

This bad boy is listed on Canadian Rare Plants for a cool $1,350 (sold). But don't worry you can pick up a leaf cutting for around $250 on Etsy.

 3. Monstera Obliqua $1,800

With delicate lacey leaves, Monstera Obliqua is absolutely stunning, but extremely slow growing.  Recommended for experienced growers only, they can be very difficult to grow and require consistent humidity.

 

Alocasia 

Alocasia is a genus of plants native to subtropical Asia and Eastern Australia, but is now cultivated all over the world. They are known for their broad leaves often with tuberous veins. Some species produce a poison that causes swelling of the tongue and pharynx, so keep them away from children and pets.

4. Alocasia Dragon Scale $345

 

Named for it's likeness to dragon scales, they are relatively low maintenance and can live for decades when properly cared for.

5. Alocasia Scalprum $345

Known for its dagger shaped leaves this bad boy will grow up to 30 centimetres tall and requires part shade.

6. Alocasia Cuprea $295

 Alocasia Cuprea, also known as Elephant's Ears, features distinctive shiny leaves. They grow best in bright, indirectly lit areas. 

Anthurium

Native to Central and South America, Anthurium is a genus of herbs. They are known for large velvet leaves with contrasting veins and produce beautiful flowers in the right conditions. 

7. Anthurium Chrystallinum x Magnificum $325

 

 

Anthurium Chrystallnium requires fresh soil every one to two years, and it's leaves must be wiped dry after watering. It should be kept away from pets as it can irritate the intestinal tract if swallowed.

 

8. Anthurium Papillilaminum Hybrid W/ Red Stem $645

 

Anthurium Papillilaminum has dark velvet leaves that grow to be quite large. In combination with the red stem, this truly is a rare find on Canadian Rare Plants and is currently sold out.

 

9. Anthurium Warocqueanum $840

 

Anthurium Warocqueanum leaves can grow to over 2 meters in the proper conditions. They require high heat, high humidity, and lots of water. 

 

Philodendrum

A genus of over 450 species of tropical native to tropical regions in the Americas, known for large and imposing leaves that present in a variety of shapes. 

10. Philodendron Majestic Hybrid $1,050

 

 

The appearance of hand painted leaves make Philodendron Majestic Hybrid a unique addition to any plant collection, and is very easy to care for. 

 

11. Philodendron Florida Beauty $875

With it's distinct variegation and leaf shape the Florida Beauty truly is a beauty. It is a climbing plant and like most tropical plants requires high humidity.

12. Philodendron White Wizzard $450

 

The striking white variegation of the White Wizzard truly make it standout. It comes highly recommended to beginners as it requires little care and can grow to be up to 3 meters in length. 

 

13. Philodendron Paraiso Verde $385

The variegated leaves of this rare philodendron make it a beautiful addition to any collection. They grow best in bright shade, and will tolerate dry air.




Tags: alocasia fiddle leaf fig monstera philodendron plant plants
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