The Top 10 Most Expensive Houseplants in 2021
If you’re looking to flex your green thumb with some serious plant parent bragging rights, then these luxury houseplants may pique your interest. From rare variegated monstera to exotic flowering orchids, exclusive plant collectors are willing to shell out big bucks for the rarest indoor greenery. Let’s explore the priciest plant picks of 2021 and what makes each one so sought-after.
1. Variegated Monstera Deliciosa
Commonly called the “swiss cheese plant,” Monstera deliciosa is a climbing vine beloved for its showy perforated leaves. But its variegated cultivars with white or yellow splashes are extraordinarily rare, pushing prices into the thousands. From my experience as an avid gardener, variegated plants are more difficult to propagate since the variegation isn’t always guaranteed to carry over to new growth. This scarcity factor is a big driver of the high cost.
Expect to pay anywhere from $500-$5,000 for a well-established variegated monstera, depending on the size and amount of vibrant variegation. Ebay sometimes features rooted cuttings going for $1,000+. While tempting to collectors, these delicados require experienced care and the variegation often diminishes with each new leaf. So budget accordingly if hoping to keep the valued look long-term!
2. Philodendron ‘Pink Princess’
This philodendron stuns with stunning pinkish-reddish leaves that resemble heart shapes. Native to Brazil, it was only recently discovered and remains exceedingly rare in cultivation. Back in 2019, a 4-leaf cutting reportedly sold for a whopping $19,000 on Ebay! Today, more established plants with well-rooted 6″+ stems go for $1,500-5,000. At the same time, rooted cuttings still demand $400-800. It will be interesting to see if success in propagation eventually decreases costs over time. For now, the mystique of this new discovery keeps the pink princess at the height of houseplant popularity.
3. Variegated Monstera Peru
While not as coveted or expensive as its cousin the deliciosa, variegated Monstera peru has its fair share of desirability. Native to Peru and Ecuador, its leaves emerge with creamy white stripes and splashes that become more pronounced in brighter light. Like other rare variegated plants, rooted cuttings go for $500-800. More established specimens withMULTIPLE eye-catching leaves can be found between $800-1,500. With exotic appeal and a harder-to-find variegation, the monstera peru satisfies collectors craving a splash of luxury in their jungle-like homes.
4. Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma ‘Mini Monstera’
This vine got a buzzy nickname as the “mini monstera” for its resemblance to the iconic monstera deliciosa. But at a more compact 6-12″ size, it’s ideal for smaller spaces. White sport variegated variations command top dollar, with 4″ potted plants retailing around $150-400 depending on the size and vibrancy of variegation. While mini monstera has yet to explode in mainstream popularity like its larger cousin, this could very well change as its adorable petite form and variegated mutations gain ground on social media. For now, collectors see it as an affordable entry into the realm of variegated rarities.
5. Anthurium Warocqueanum
With heart-shaped leaves of red velvet and vibrant flowers that resemble confetti, anthurium warocqueanum truly lives up to its “Flamingo Flower” nickname. Native to Colombia, it thrives as an epiphyte high up in the rainforest canopy. This rarity factor, plus its showstopping good looks, raises the value. 4-6″ potted specimens sell from $300-600. Larger specimens or those in bloom command up to $1,000. As with other rare tropicals, acquiring a well-established anthurium warocqueanum is an investment in an exotic indoor showpiece that evokes the beauty of faraway jungles.
6. Variegated String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii)
When it comes to variegated houseplants, trailing succulents reign supreme. Both variegated string of hearts and string of turtles rival money trees for lavish price points. The former boasts delicate heart-shaped leaves splashed in cream or yellow, draping gloriously from hanging baskets. 4-6″ potted specimens fetch $150-300. More robust specimens demanding $500 are considered bargains among collectors. While propagation helps lower costs somewhat, variegated string of hearts maintains status as a coveted stunner worthy of indoor oasis.
7. Hoya Kerrii Variegata
With waxy heart-shaped leaves banded in vibrant white, hoya kerrii variegata is a top pick for those seeking striking foliage. Mature specimens command top dollar between $300-600 due to their huge sizes. Meanwhile, 4″ potted rooted cuttings go for $150-350 depending on leaf count and vibrancy. Like other rare hoyas, kerrii variegata propagates reliably via cuttings—so with patience, prices could come down as supply meets demand. In the meantime, its ethereal beauty persists as irresistible eye candy for high-end collectors.
8. Variegated Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema Pink Consuela)
As an easygoing houseplant renowned for tolerating low-light, aglaonema makes for an accessible pick at affordable rates. However, its variegated mutations fetch hefty price tags. The cultivar ‘Pink Consuela’ stands out with dark foliage edged in vibrant pink. 6″ potted specimens retail anywhere from $150-400 depending on fullness and leaf size. More sizable plants command up to $1,000. With unusual pink-toned foliage, aglaonema consuela satisfies plant lovers craving a standout houseplant statement piece.
9. Variegated Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma
As the mini monstera gains hype, so too does demand for its variegated form. Splashes of cream or yellow intrigue collectors, especially since variegation isn’t a given even through propagation. Well-established specimens with multiple eye-catching leaves fetch $300-800. Meanwhile, 4-6″ rooted cuttings go for $150-400 depending on fullness and variegation vibrancy. With any variegated rarity, growing conditions heavily impact how variegation presents—so budget for optimal lighting to preserve sought-after patterns longterm.
10. Pink Princess Philodendron (thailand emerald)
While not as rare or lavish as the pink princess, the Thailand Emerald philodendron also dazzles collectors. Heart-shaped leaves emerge bright pink that fade to lime green with maturity. 4-6″ potted plants with visible pink fetches $150-300. Larger potted specimens over $10″ with more dramatic coloration approach $400-800. Online communities fuel excitement for new philodendron mutations, so prices may continue increasing rapidly in short-term depending on supply. For now, the Thailand Emerald offers an affordable splash of pink foliage coveted by collector newcomers.
So in summary – from exotic rainforest specimens to viral variegated mutations, the houseplant market rewards eye-catching rarities with lavish price tags. While lofty costs initially seem hard to justify, appreciating each plant’s story of discovery or resilience in cultivation reveals why serious collectors are willing to pay top dollar. Whether showing off prized possessions or enjoying private plant paradises, a splash of luxury greenery adds immeasurable joy and intrigue to any home.
Most Expensive Houseplants 2021
| Plant | Average Cost | Care Level | Special Traits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monstera deliciosa | $150 | Easy | Large, tropical leaves |
| Philodendron birkin | $200 | Moderate | Variegated heart-shaped leaves |
| Variegated Monstera | $250 | Moderate | White-splashed tropical leaves |
| China Doll plant | $100 | Easy | Long silvery green stems |
| Raven ZZ plant | $80 | Low | Dark elliptical leaves |
| Variegated String of Hearts | $150 | Low | Green and white trailing stems |
FAQ
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What is the most expensive houseplant 2021?
The rarest and most costly houseplant last year was the variegated Monstera plant. Its white markings and unusual pattern basically make it stunning to look at. Unfortunately, its price tag of a few thousand dollars basically puts it out of reach for normal folks like us.
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Why are some houseplants so pricey?
A number of factors contribute to high prices. Rare or hard to grow plants are always more dear. Horticulturalists spent years developing new hybrids through grafting or tissue culture. This intensive work and limited supply drives up costs. At the same time, popular social media posts portraying indoor greenery as an amazing status symbol have kinda skyrocketed demand recently.
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What makes a Monstera plant so costly?
The variegated Monstera is rare due to a genetic mutation that causes its leaves to develop white markings. Growers have difficulty propagating more of this trait, limiting supply drastically. Apparently, it needs extremely specialized care too. In fact, some pro gardeners I talked with say its finicky nature makes it nearly impossible for average folks to cultivate. That rarity and challenge might explain the staggering prices!
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Are expensive plants worth buying?
Paying thousands for a houseplant feels absurd to me. But plant fanatics swear these beauties are investments that hold value over time. Maybe they’re right! Experts have said some rare plants have increased over ten times in price. However, the average buyer risks losing that money if their expensive new friend suddenly dies. Seems like a gamble! Unless you’re Loaded or have amazing green fingers, cheaper options will probably do just as well in your home sweet home.
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What are some attractive alternatives to pricey plants?
Fortunately, there are tons of gorgeous greenery choices that won’t break the bank. Peace Lilies, Pothos, Philodendrons and Snake Plants are basically bulletproof and have stunning foliage.Spider plants and ZZ Plants thrive with neglect. You could also check plant swap meets and local nurseries for rarer finds at better prices. And keep an eye out for plant pre sales to score deals. Sometimes the cheaper, common foliage is most lovely of all!
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Are expensive plants a good investment?
People debate whether super costly plants are sound investments. While growth in value is possible over many years, disease or changes in popularity could also cause prices to tumble. That risk seems high to me. On the other hand, slower growing rare varieties may hold their worth longer. A fellow I know made thousands reselling a variegated Monstera he got on sale years ago! Too bad he can’t bottled up whatever magical touch kept it thriving! The real reward is enjoyed daily for lovers of fancy indoor plants, regardless of potential future profits my friends.