Idaho might be famous for potatoes, but some homes are hiding botanical treasures worth serious cash.
Rare houseplants have become hot commodities, with collectors paying thousands for unique specimens. Your neighbor’s leafy corner plant could actually be funding someone’s dream vacation.
1. Variegated Monstera Deliciosa
Collectors go wild for this stunning plant with its marble-patterned leaves. Each leaf shows unique white and green splashes that make every specimen one-of-a-kind.
A single cutting can sell for hundreds of dollars online. Some mature plants have fetched over $5,000 at auctions.
The variegation happens naturally but remains unpredictable, making propagation tricky. Idaho’s indoor climate works perfectly for these tropical beauties when given proper humidity and indirect sunlight.
2. Anthurium Warocqueanum
Known as the Queen Anthurium, this plant boasts velvety leaves that can grow over three feet long. The dramatic white veins against deep green create an unforgettable appearance.
Serious collectors have shelled out $500 to $2,000 for healthy specimens. Growing one successfully requires high humidity, which Idaho homes can achieve with humidifiers.
The leaves feel like soft fabric to the touch. Patience pays off since these slow growers reward dedicated caretakers with stunning foliage that commands attention.
3. Alocasia Azlanii
Metallic purple leaves with copper undertones make this alocasia look almost unreal. Light plays across the surface, creating an iridescent effect that photography barely captures.
Originally from Malaysian jungles, this rarity has fetched prices between $400 and $1,500. The dramatic coloring intensifies with proper care and bright filtered light.
Idaho growers should maintain consistent moisture and warmth for best results. Each new leaf unfurls like a precious gem, justifying why collectors eagerly hunt these beauties.
4. Monstera Obliqua Peru
More holes than leaf? That’s the signature of this ultra-rare monstera species. The delicate, lace-like foliage looks impossibly fragile yet survives with attentive care.
True Monstera obliqua specimens can command prices exceeding $3,000. Many plants sold under this name are actually Monstera adansonii, so authentication matters greatly.
Growing slowly and requiring high humidity, these challenge even experienced plant parents. Idaho collectors with proper setups have successfully cultivated these living treasures, watching their value appreciate yearly.
5. Philodendron Spiritus Sancti
Considered the holy grail of philodendrons, this Brazilian native nearly went extinct in the wild. Its long, narrow leaves grow in elegant formations that plant lovers dream about owning.
Auction prices have reached $10,000 for mature specimens. Tissue culture has made them slightly more available, though still incredibly rare and expensive.
The elongated foliage creates architectural interest unlike typical houseplants. Idaho enthusiasts lucky enough to own one guard it like the botanical treasure it truly represents in today’s plant market.
6. Variegated Alocasia Macrorrhiza
Giant elephant ear leaves painted with white and cream variegation create jaw-dropping impact. Each leaf can span several feet when conditions allow maximum growth.
The unpredictable variegation patterns mean no two plants look identical. Collectors have paid $800 to $2,500 for well-established specimens showing stable variegation.
Bright indirect light helps maintain the striking color contrast. Idaho’s indoor growing season works well for these attention-grabbers when humidity stays adequate through winter months.
7. Anthurium Crystallinum
Heart-shaped leaves shimmer with crystalline white veins that seem to glow against velvety green. The texture invites touch, feeling like the softest velvet fabric imaginable.
Popular among collectors, healthy plants sell for $150 to $600 depending on maturity. The spectacular veining becomes more pronounced as leaves mature and expand.
High humidity requirements suit bathroom or kitchen placements in Idaho homes. New leaves emerge bronze-colored before darkening, providing an ever-changing display that justifies their collector status.
8. Monstera Albo Borsigiana
Half-moon variegation creates leaves that look painted white on one side, green on the other. Social media has driven demand sky-high for these Instagram-famous plants.
Single-leaf cuttings regularly sell for $200 to $500, while established plants command thousands. The variegation must be maintained through proper light exposure and careful propagation.
Idaho’s plant community has embraced these beauties enthusiastically. Growing them successfully requires understanding that white portions lack chlorophyll, meaning plants need more light than fully green varieties.
9. Alocasia Silver Dragon
Silvery leaves with deep green veins look like they’ve been dusted with metallic powder. Compact size makes this alocasia perfect for smaller spaces while still delivering visual impact.
Prices range from $80 to $300 for healthy plants. The unusual coloring and manageable size have made it increasingly sought-after among Idaho collectors.
Unlike giant alocasias, this variety stays relatively small and manageable. Bright indirect light enhances the silvery sheen, while consistent watering prevents the dramatic leaf-dropping these plants sometimes exhibit.
10. Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma Variegated
Often called Mini Monstera, the variegated version sports yellow and cream splashes across split leaves. Fast-growing vines can quickly fill spaces with tropical vibes.
Variegated specimens sell for $150 to $600, significantly more than their solid green cousins. The variegation occurs randomly through mutation, making stable plants especially valuable.
Idaho plant parents appreciate their relatively easy care compared to fussier rarities. Providing climbing support encourages larger leaf development and more dramatic fenestrations that showcase the beautiful variegation patterns.