Rare Houseplants
Like coins, cards and old maps, many people are drawn to collecting rare houseplants. They add a sense of exotic beauty to any space.
Pink princess Philodendron is a stunning pink variegation within its dark green leaves. It is a standout for any collection of plants. It requires a bit more attention and care than other philodendrons.
El Choco Red
This rare Philodendron has large, heart-shaped leaves that are shades of deep red or burgundy. The abaxial side of the leaf is a vibrant red color that contrasts with the upper side. This feature sets Philodendron el choco red apart from other varieties of this tropical plant. New leaves are born with this vibrant color on the abaxial surface but fade as they grow.
This Philodendron is an Aroid climbing plant that comes from the rainforests of Ecuador and Colombia. potted house plants thrives under bright indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause leaves to burn and fade. It is a fast-growing variety, but can take a while to reach its full size and spread out its lush leaves.
As the topsoil begins to dry out, it's vital to properly water this plant. Philodendrons benefit from a chunky soil mix that will increase airflow around the roots and help with drainage. It is crucial to prevent root decay in the Philodendrons.
El Choco Red is best in a warm, humid environment. A temperature of 77 degrees Fahrenheit would be ideal for this houseplant. It can withstand temperatures as low as 65 F but will slow down its growth or even die.
The plant prefers indirect light however, it will take a little direct sunlight. The leaves should be damp but not soggy. It is recommended to use a rich and nutrient-rich pot soil mix that contains ample amendments, like bark and charcoal. The philodendron should be fertilized every month at a half strength using an liquid fertilizer.
Philodendrons can be easy to grow, however they are sensitive to cold temperatures and overwatering. It is toxic if eaten, so keep it away from pets and children. It could cause digestive problems, burning sensations in the mouth and throat as well as rashes on the skin. Before pruning, it is recommended to clean gardening shears and any other tools.
Monstera Adansonii Variegata
This rare tropical epiphytic aroid that is also known as the name Swiss Cheese Plant, is a rare epiphytic houseplant. Its unique combination of greens and whites makes it an attractive houseplant, especially for those who are looking for something that will make their home stand out and create a great Instagram picture.
It is an erect vine that is supported by moss poles or it can be cultivated in hanging baskets. Its leaves have variegation ranging from a solid, full green to white albino. The color of the leaves is a result of an accidental change in the normal green Monstera adansonii plant.
Like other aroids it requires warm and humid conditions. The roots and leaves die at temperatures below freezing. It isn't a hardy plant to grow in the United States. It does best in an indoor environment that can be protected against frost.
The best way to maintain this plant is in indirect light that is not directly overhead. In summer, water it frequently to keep the soil humid. You can also use an air mister to maintain a high degree of humidity.
In the spring and summer months, fertilize it with a general balanced food for houseplants at a rate of twice per month. It needs simple nutrition since it doesn't produce lots of chlorophyll because of its different varieties.
In winter, the soil needs to be well-drained and not excessively dry. Use a light mulch, such as coco chips or orchid bark. This will help keep the soil in place and prevent it from drying out too quickly.
If you have a mature, healthy Monstera adansonii variegata plant, it can be transferred to a larger pot once a year in the spring. This will allow it to have more room to grow roots before the warmer weather kicks into action and triggers new root development. Alternatively, you can simply refresh the soil in the previous container and mist it to maintain an elevated humidity. This will also help to lessen the need to water.
Anthurium Warocqueanum
This rare anthurium is sure to be a standout in your houseplant collection. It is native to the rainforests of Central America and South America and loves high humidity. Its size and its elongated droplet-shaped leaf make it a show stopper. This plant looks fantastic in a glass cabinet.
This anthurium is difficult to grow at home, but it's feasible if you take the proper care. The first step is to ensure that the environment is suitable. Idealy, you should be able to keep the humidity level at or more than 70 percent. This can be achieved through an indoor terrarium or a greenhouse cabinet. It is also recommended to be careful not to expose the anthurium to direct sunlight since it can burn the leaf tips.
Another tip is to ensure that you purchase thermium from a respected seller. You should also search for local sellers to reduce shipping costs as well as the time required to adjust your plant to the climate of your country. Avoid importing anthuriums in the winter months as they are their most vulnerable. They might not recover from the strain of shipping.
If you wish to propagate anthuriums wait until a healthy offshoot emerges from the main plant. The offshoots of the primary plant can be separated and planted in a different container. To prevent the spread of any disease clean the equipment you will be using to cut offshoots by wiping it with 70% isopropyl alcohol.
After the anthurium has been repotted, it should be thoroughly watered. You can then cover the container with a clear plastic bag or wrap of plastic to keep the humidity and protect the plants from light. After the anthurium has matured it is possible to remove the plastic bag or plastic wrapping.
Like other anthuriums you'll have to replenish your anthurium on regular basis. Repotting is required when the potting mixture becomes too dense or the roots start to show through the soil's surface. Anthuriums should be gently shaken to loosen the soil before making a new potting. The anthurium needs to be transferred to a larger container filled with a new mix of potting.
Philodendron Gloriosum
If you're looking for a unique houseplant to add some style and glam to your home, then take a look at the Philodendron Gloriosum. This aroid is also referred to as the Black Gold Philodendron and Velvet Leaf Philodendron. It has a velvety appearance with deep green leaves that have white veins. The plant can grow to a height of up to 90 centimeters and is believed to be a real eye-catcher in any space.
This aroid loves an environment that is humid and warm. The optimum temperature is between 12 and 30 degrees Celsius. They are most at home in a bathroom but will also thrive in other well-lit rooms within the home. The soil should have plenty of organic matter, however it must be sufficient in size to allow water pass through. The plant is also susceptible to being overwatered which is why it's crucial to use sparingly and let the soil dry out between each watering. Insufficient water can cause root rot and the plant may start to die. It is a good idea to put some charcoal in the soil when growing this aroid, since it assists in absorbing any excess water.
In the fall and spring the plant can be fed with an appropriate liquid fertilizer every month. Be sure to dilute the solution by half prior to you apply it to your Philodendron. Like many aroids, this one is a slow-growing plant and the time it takes for the spike of a leaf to fully open can last between 1-2 months. Over-watering and fertilizing can also slow down the process.
This species is easy to propagate via cutting off the stem or air layering. It is advisable to wait until the plants have been in the container for a few days before taking a cutting because the roots have to be established to be able to endure. Make use of a long planter to keep the rhizome elevated above ground to prevent it from getting rotten. This aroid also prefers that the rhizome is planted with the rhizome facing towards the upwards. The rhizome is more susceptible to rotting when it is buried. This will also affect the health of the plant.