Utah homes are full of charm, and sometimes that includes plants worth far more than they look. I recently realized a few of the houseplants my grandmother cared for in Utah are now collector favorites.
These rare beauties are not just pretty—they’re surprisingly valuable. You might be sitting on a hidden gem growing right by your window.
1. Variegated Monstera Deliciosa
Collectors go absolutely wild for this stunning plant with its marble-patterned leaves. Each leaf shows off splashes of creamy white mixed with deep green, creating a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that nature designed.
A single cutting can sell for $200 to $5,000 depending on the variegation pattern. Grandmas across Utah have been nurturing these beauties for decades, not realizing their prize-winning status.
The plant grows slowly but rewards patient caretakers with breathtaking foliage that brightens any room with its artistic flair.
2. Philodendron Pink Princess
Hot pink splashes across dark leaves make this philodendron a social media sensation and collector favorite. The dramatic color contrast looks almost painted on, though it’s completely natural and totally unpredictable.
Prices range from $100 to $500 for well-established plants with good pink variegation. Many Utah plant lovers inherited these from relatives who simply thought they were pretty.
Bright indirect light helps maintain that signature pink coloring, making windowsill placement in Utah homes absolutely perfect for showcasing this stunner.
3. Anthurium Clarinervium
Heart-shaped leaves with bold white veins make this anthurium look like something from a fairy tale. The velvety texture feels as luxurious as it looks, with veins that glow against the deep green background.
Plant enthusiasts happily pay $80 to $300 for mature specimens of this Mexican native. Grandma’s Utah sunroom provides ideal humidity and warmth that keeps this tropical treasure thriving year-round.
Regular misting and well-draining soil keep the foliage looking spectacular without requiring expert-level gardening skills or complicated care routines.
4. Hoya Carnosa Compacta
Twisted, rope-like leaves give this hoya its quirky nickname and undeniable charm. The curled foliage creates fascinating textures that cascade beautifully from hanging baskets, catching everyone’s attention.
Well-rooted plants fetch between $50 and $200, especially when they’re ready to bloom. Utah’s dry climate actually suits this low-maintenance plant perfectly since it prefers less frequent watering.
Fragrant star-shaped flowers appear as a bonus reward, filling rooms with sweet perfume that makes waiting for blooms completely worthwhile for patient growers.
5. Alocasia Azlanii
Metallic copper and purple leaves shimmer like precious metal in changing light conditions. This Malaysian beauty creates dramatic focal points that instantly upgrade any plant collection with its otherworldly appearance.
Rare specimens command prices between $150 and $600 from serious collectors worldwide. Your Utah grandma might have propagated hers from a friend years ago, completely unaware of its skyrocketing value.
Humidity trays and consistent moisture keep this tropical showstopper happy indoors, though it’s surprisingly adaptable once established in the right spot.
6. Monstera Adansonii Variegata
Swiss cheese holes meet creamy white variegation in this climbing wonder. Each perforated leaf displays unique patterns that make every single plant completely different from the next.
Cuttings start around $300 and can soar past $2,000 for large, established vines. Many Utah households have these trailing from bookshelves, passed down through generations as simple family heirlooms.
Moss poles encourage upward growth and larger leaf development, though they’ll happily trail downward from shelves if you prefer that cascading jungle look instead.
7. Philodendron Gloriosum
Velvety leaves crawl horizontally across soil like nature’s carpet, with veins that practically glow in sunlight. The crawling growth habit sets this philodendron apart from its climbing cousins, creating unique display opportunities.
Mature plants sell for $100 to $400 depending on size and leaf count. Utah’s moderate indoor temperatures suit this Colombian native surprisingly well, despite its tropical origins.
Shallow, wide pots work best since the rhizome grows sideways rather than downward, making container selection more important than with typical houseplants.
8. Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Variegated
Often called mini monstera, this fast-growing climber sports yellow and cream variegation that’s become incredibly sought-after. Split leaves develop as the plant matures, creating that classic monstera look on a more compact scale.
Variegated versions command $250 to $800, while regular green forms remain affordable. Grandma’s Utah dining room probably has one climbing up a trellis, growing vigorously without any special fuss.
Bright light intensifies variegation patterns and encourages faster growth, making south-facing windows in Utah homes absolutely ideal for maximum visual impact.
9. Scindapsus Pictus Exotica
Silver splashes cover dark green leaves like someone flicked metallic paint across them. The satin-like sheen catches light beautifully, creating shimmer that changes throughout the day.
Premium cuttings range from $40 to $150 for fuller hanging baskets. Many Utah homes feature these trailing from macrame hangers, thriving in moderate light without demanding constant attention.
Forgiving and adaptable, this plant tolerates occasional neglect better than fussier tropicals, making it perfect for busy grandmas who have other things to do besides hover over houseplants.
10. Begonia Maculata
Polka dots dance across angel-wing leaves with burgundy undersides that steal the show. The spotted pattern looks hand-painted but occurs naturally, creating instant conversation pieces wherever they’re displayed.
Established plants sell between $30 and $120 depending on size and fullness. Utah’s indoor conditions provide the bright indirect light these Brazilian natives crave without scorching delicate foliage.
Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess, while consistent watering keeps those stunning spotted leaves looking fresh and preventing crispy edges from forming.