Houseplants do more than beautify our homes. Did you know that the presence of indoor plants can significantly boost your mood and productivity? A study found that people working in environments with plants reported higher levels of well-being and felt more productive than those without.1
With that in mind, let’s look at some of the most unusual and stunning houseplants that can add a touch of exotic beauty to your home. These unique plants stand out with their strange and captivating appearances and bring a breath of fresh air and a sense of tranquility to your space.
1. Venus Flytrap (Dionaea muscipula)
The Venus Flytrap is perhaps the most famous of the carnivorous plants. Its dramatic snapping jaws are not just for show; they are designed to catch and digest insects. This plant’s unique hunting mechanism is fascinating to watch, making it a living conversation piece for your home.
Native to the subtropical wetlands of the East Coast of the United States, the Venus Flytrap thrives in humid environments. While it might look intimidating, caring for this plant is quite simple. Ensure it has plenty of sunlight and water it with distilled or rainwater to keep it healthy and happy.
2. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)
The Chinese Money Plant, also known as the pancake plant, is loved for its round, coin-like leaves that grow on long, slender stems. This quirky plant adds a touch of whimsy to your home and is said to bring good fortune and wealth.
Originating from China, this plant is easy to care for and propagates quickly. It thrives in bright, indirect light and needs watering only when the soil feels dry to the touch. The Chinese Money Plant is perfect for beginners and can be a delightful addition to any indoor garden.
3. Monkey Tail Cactus (Hildewintera colademononis)
The Monkey Tail Cactus is a striking plant that lives up to its name. Its long, trailing stems covered in soft, hair-like spines resemble a monkey’s tail, making it a unique hanging plant for your collection.
Native to Bolivia, this cactus blooms with vibrant red flowers, adding a pop of color to your space. It prefers bright, direct sunlight and well-draining soil. This plant is a conversation starter and will undoubtedly add a touch of the exotic to your home decor.
4. Living Stones (Lithops spp.)
Living Stones, or Lithops, are succulents that resemble pebbles or stones, allowing them to blend seamlessly into rocky landscapes. These fascinating plants are perfect for those looking to add a unique element to their indoor garden without much hassle.
Native to the arid regions of southern Africa, Lithops are adapted to survive in harsh conditions. They require minimal watering and plenty of sunlight. Their small size and unusual appearance make them an intriguing addition to any plant collection.
5. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
The String of Pearls plant is a delightful succulent with long, trailing stems adorned with small, bead-like leaves. Its whimsical appearance makes it a favorite among those looking to add a touch of whimsy to their home.
Originating from the dry regions of southwest Africa, the String of Pearls thrives in bright, indirect light and needs infrequent watering. It’s a low-maintenance houseplant that adds a unique aesthetic to hanging planters or shelves.
6. Ribbon Plant (Trachyandra tortilis)
Trachyandra is a rare and exotic plant with curly, spiral leaves that look almost like something from a Dr. Seuss book. Its whimsical appearance makes it a fascinating addition to any collection of house plants.
This plant is native to South Africa and prefers bright, indirect light and minimal watering. Its slow growth and unusual form make it a perfect conversation starter and a beautiful oddity for your home.
7. Pink Princess Philodendron (Philodendron erubescens)
The Pink Princess Philodendron is a stunning plant with dark green leaves splashed with vibrant pink variegation. Its eye-catching coloration makes it a highly sought-after plant among enthusiasts.
Originating from Colombia, this plant thrives in bright, indirect light and needs regular watering to keep its soil moist but not waterlogged. Its unique beauty and relatively easy care make it a standout addition to any indoor garden.
8. String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus)
String of Dolphins is a charming plant with leaves that resemble tiny dolphins leaping out of the water. This delightful appearance makes it a favorite among succulent lovers looking for something truly unique.
Native to South Africa, this plant thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. It requires minimal watering, making it an ideal choice for those who want a low-maintenance yet visually interesting plant.
9. Air Plant (Tillandsia spp.)
Air Plants are unique because they don’t require soil to grow. These epiphytic plants absorb moisture and nutrients from the air through their leaves, making them incredibly versatile for indoor decor.
Originating from the forests, mountains, and deserts of Central and South America, Air Plants thrive in bright, indirect light and need regular misting to stay hydrated.
10. Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla)
The Rose of Jericho is a resurrection plant that can survive extreme dehydration (can go years without water). When dry, it curls up into a ball, and when exposed to moisture, it unfurls into a lush green plant. This transformation is nothing short of miraculous.
Native to desert regions of the Middle East and Central America, the Rose of Jericho requires minimal care. It can be revived with just a little water, making it an intriguing and resilient addition to any plant collection.
11. Pitcher Plant (Nepenthes spp.)
The Pitcher Plant is a carnivorous plant with specialized leaves that form pitfall traps filled with digestive enzymes. Its unusual appearance and fascinating feeding mechanism make it a standout addition to any plant collection.
Native to the tropical regions of Madagascar, Southeast Asia, and Australia, the Pitcher Plant thrives in high humidity and bright, indirect light.
Each plant on this list brings its unique charm and ecological advantages. Whether you’re an experienced plant enthusiast or a beginner, these unusual plants can transform your living space into a vibrant, green sanctuary, fostering both aesthetic pleasure and well-being.
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Nancy has been a plant person from an early age. That interest blossomed into a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Nancy worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.