- Why choose unusual houseplants for your space
- Examples of standout species to consider
- Key care tips tailored to exotic plants
- How to source and budget for rare varieties
- Creative ways to showcase your plant collection
Introduction
Tired of the same old pothos and fiddle leaf figs? It’s time to explore a more unusual side of the indoor plant world—one filled with alien-looking succulents, sculptural vines, and rare tropicals. Unique and unusual houseplants are rapidly gaining popularity among hobbyists, designers, and collectors alike. Whether you want to make a bold design statement or simply enjoy nurturing peculiar greenery, uncommon plants offer a fun and rewarding twist on the typical houseplant experience.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find, choose, and care for rare and unconventional houseplants.
Why Choose Unusual Houseplants?
- Aesthetic Appeal: Strange foliage shapes, unexpected textures, and rare colors instantly elevate any room’s decor.
- Personal Satisfaction: Growing a living collection of rare species can be incredibly fulfilling, especially as they flourish under your care.
- Conversation Starters: Guests will notice and ask about “that weird plant” in your living room—which gives you a great story to tell.
- Commercial Advantage: Unusual plants can help restaurants, cafes, and boutiques stand out through eye-catching natural decor.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our full guide on common vs. rare houseplant types.
Standout Examples of Unique & Unusual Houseplants
| Plant | Description | Care Level | Lighting Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lithops (Living Stones) |
Stone-like succulents that mimic rocks | Moderate | Bright, direct sunlight |
| Monstera obliqua | Rare Monstera with gauzy, Swiss-cheese-like leaves | Difficult | Bright, indirect light |
| Medusa’s Head (Euphorbia caput-medusae) |
Tentacle-like stems resembling mythological Medusa | Easy | Bright, indirect to direct light |
| Albuca spiralis “Frizzle Sizzle” |
Corkscrew leaves and sweet-smelling blooms | Moderate | Bright, indirect light |
| Trachyandra tortilis | Spiral succulent, almost resembling kinetic sculpture | Moderate | Bright light, some direct sun |
| Hoya ‘Compacta’ (Hindu Rope) |
Curled vines with waxy leaves and star-shaped blooms | Moderate | Bright, indirect light |
Special Care Considerations for Exotic Plants
Know the Origin
Understanding where a plant comes from helps replicate its native conditions. Plants from rainforests need totally different care than those from rocky deserts.
Light & Humidity
- Desert plants (e.g., Lithops, Trachyandra) thrive in bright sunlight and dry air.
- Tropical plants (e.g., Monstera obliqua, Hoya) prefer diffused light and high humidity.
Watering Requirements
- Always use pots with drainage holes!
- Let soil nearly dry out between watering for succulents.
- Tropicals enjoy consistently moist (but not soggy) soil.
Soil & Substrates
- Succulents: Cactus or mineral-rich sandy mix
- Tropicals: Peat and bark-based mix for air circulation
Temperature Sensitivity
- Keep plants away from cold drafts or HVAC vents.
- Most unusual plants prefer 65–85°F (18–29°C).
Common Issues & Fixes
- ✔️ Are leaf edges brown or curling?
- ✔️ Any sign of rot at the base?
- ✔️ Spider mites or mealybugs on leaves?
- ✔️ Sufficient airflow around the plant?
Inspect plants weekly and isolate any showing signs of stress.
Where to Find Them: Sourcing and Budget Tips
Specialty Plant Shops
Local plant nurseries often carry a few standout varieties. Shopping in person allows you to inspect health and size before buying.
Online Nurseries
Trusted options include sites like Etsy, Steve’s Leaves, and The Sill. Always read reviews and confirm shipping guarantees for live plants.
Plant Swaps & Groups
Rare plant Facebook groups and Reddit’s plantswap community are treasure troves for exchanging rooted cuttings or buying affordably.
Price Expectations
| Plant Type | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| Common Oddities (e.g. Frizzle Sizzle, Hindu Rope) | $15 – $40 |
| Rare Collector Plants (e.g. Monstera obliqua) | $100 – $500+ |
Avoid buying cuttings labeled as “established”—ask for verification that they’re rooted.
Ideas for Displaying Unique Houseplants
- Use sculptural planters or handmade ceramic pots to emphasize the plant’s odd shape.
- Create a glass terrarium for Lithops or small succulents—just ensure ventilation.
- Install floating wall shelves with trim lighting for an art-gallery vibe.
- Group several unusual plants together with clean decor to let them stand out.
- Place tropicals in rotation near a bright window to mimic sun cycles.
For Commercial Spaces
Cafes, boutiques, and studios can turn a corner into a biodiverse display with tall stands, hanging vines, and branded plant tags to encourage engagement.
How to Build This in Make.com
If you have an online shop or interior design service, you can use Make.com to automate your rare plant curation and sharing process.
- Trigger: Set Webhook or schedule trigger (e.g. “Every Monday”)
- Module 1: Google Sheets → Retrieve list of rare plants and pricing from your catalog
- Module 2: HTTP module → GET latest care tips or plant images from external APIs or RSS feeds
- Module 3: Formatter → Compile into short content blocks (plant name + image + pricing + care)
- Module 4: Gmail/Email → Send to subscribers or post to your commerce backend
This flow allows you to keep your followers updated on new or unique plant arrivals and care tips—automatically.
Conclusion
Unique houseplants bring a thrilling blend of design, discovery, and responsibility into your space. Whether you choose just one or start your own exotic collection, these plants are far more than decor—they’re conversation pieces and rewarding challenges.
Ready to take the plunge? Start by picking one that fits your light environment and experience level. Share your unusual plants—or ask care questions—in the comments!
Click here to explore the full list of houseplant types and find what fits your style best.
FAQ
What’s the rarest houseplant I can reasonably buy?
Monstera obliqua is one of the rarest you can buy online—but at a steep price. For budget-friendly rarities, try Albuca spiralis or Hindu Rope Hoyas.
Are unusual plants harder to care for?
Some are surprisingly easy (like Medusa’s Head), while others require specific conditions. Do your research on each plant’s origin and needs.
Where are the best online stores for rare plants?
Check reputable sellers like Steve’s Leaves, The Sill, and specialty Etsy shops. Always confirm shipping conditions and refund policies.
Can I propagate rare houseplants?
Yes—many can be propagated from cuttings, leaves, or division. However, ensure legality and proper growing conditions to make it successful.
