Grandma always had a way of keeping the most surprising plants tucked in sunny corners of her old New Hampshire home. I used to think they were just cute little decorations until I learned some of them are worth real money today.
It still makes me laugh thinking about how casually she watered treasures without even knowing it. Let’s peek at the kinds of plants that might be hiding the same secret value in your house right now.
1. Variegated Monstera Deliciosa
Back in the day, your New Hampshire grandma probably didn’t realize this split-leaf beauty was anything special. Today, a single cutting with white and green marbling can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars online.
The variegation happens naturally but rarely, making each plant unique. Collectors go crazy for specimens with balanced patterns and healthy growth.
If grandma’s plant has creamy white sections mixed with deep green, you’ve hit the jackpot. Handle it carefully because those variegated leaves are delicate and prone to browning.
2. Hoya Carnosa Compacta
Grandma might have called this her “rope plant” because of its twisted, curly leaves that look like thick green braids. New Hampshire homes were perfect for these slow-growing beauties that don’t mind cooler temperatures.
Mature plants with established root systems are particularly valuable now. When they bloom, the waxy pink flowers smell like chocolate and look almost fake.
Plant enthusiasts will pay premium prices for large, trailing specimens. The thicker and longer the ropes, the more your plant is worth in today’s market.
3. Philodendron Pink Princess
With leaves that look like someone splashed pink paint across dark green canvas, this philodendron is a showstopper. Your grandmother’s New Hampshire sunroom probably gave it just enough light to develop those stunning pink patches.
The pink coloring is unpredictable and can fade or intensify depending on care. Plants with more pink than green are considered extremely valuable.
A well-established pink princess can fetch several hundred dollars. Make sure to keep it in bright, indirect light to maintain that gorgeous coloration everyone loves.
4. Anthurium Clarinervium
Those heart-shaped leaves with white veins running through them like rivers on a map made this anthurium special. Grandma probably kept hers near a humidifier in her New Hampshire home during those dry winter months.
The velvety texture and dramatic veining make each leaf look hand-painted. Larger, more mature plants with multiple leaves command higher prices.
Collectors appreciate specimens that have been well-cared for over many years. If the leaves are unblemished and the veining is crisp, you could be looking at a valuable plant.
5. String of Hearts Variegated
Dangling from grandma’s kitchen window, this delicate vine with tiny heart-shaped leaves might have seemed ordinary. The variegated version, though, is anything but common in New Hampshire or anywhere else.
Pink, cream, and green colors swirl together on each miniature heart. Long, established strands that cascade several feet are especially sought after by plant lovers.
A mature variegated string of hearts can sell for impressive amounts. The longer and fuller the strands, the more collectors will pay for this charming trailing plant.
6. Begonia Maculata
Spotted like a dalmatian, this begonia’s silver polka dots against olive green leaves are absolutely mesmerizing. Your New Hampshire grandmother probably loved how the undersides glowed ruby red when sunlight filtered through.
Often called the polka dot begonia, it’s become wildly popular on social media. Larger plants with multiple canes and abundant foliage are worth considerably more.
The dramatic appearance makes it a favorite among younger plant collectors. If grandma’s specimen is tall and bushy with healthy spotting, it could bring in good money.
7. Alocasia Frydek
Sometimes called Green Velvet, this alocasia has leaves so soft you want to pet them like a cat. The bold white veins contrast beautifully against the deep green, making it a striking addition to any New Hampshire home.
Grandma probably struggled to keep it happy during cold winters, but established plants are incredibly valuable. The larger the leaves and the more pronounced the veining, the better.
Collectors prize specimens with multiple leaves in perfect condition. If yours has survived decades of care, it’s definitely worth getting appraised by plant experts.
8. Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Variegated
Often mistaken for a baby monstera, this fast-growing climber has split leaves that look like tiny green hands. The variegated form, with yellow or white streaks, is exceptionally rare and valuable.
Your grandmother’s New Hampshire home might have provided perfect conditions for this tropical beauty to thrive. Plants that have been allowed to climb and develop larger leaves are worth significantly more.
A single rooted cutting of the variegated variety can sell for hundreds of dollars. If grandma’s plant is large and established, you’ve discovered something truly special.
9. Syngonium Albo Variegated
Arrowhead plants were common in older New Hampshire homes, but the variegated white version is a different story entirely. Each leaf looks like it’s been dipped in cream, creating a stunning two-tone effect.
Grandma might have propagated cuttings and shared them with neighbors without knowing their value. Fully variegated leaves or half-moon patterns are especially prized by today’s collectors.
Mature plants with multiple stems and consistent variegation can command impressive prices. The more white on the leaves, the more valuable your inherited plant becomes in current markets.
10. Peperomia Marble
With leaves that look like polished marble stone, this compact peperomia was perfect for grandma’s New Hampshire windowsill. The silver and green swirls make each leaf look like a miniature work of art.
Unlike many rare plants, peperomias are forgiving and easy to care for, which is why they survived so long. Well-established clumps with numerous stems are particularly valuable.
Plant collectors love the low-maintenance nature combined with stunning appearance. If your inherited specimen is full and healthy, it could be worth more than you’d expect from such a small plant.