Even though there are more than 500 species of philodendron plants, some are quite rare. In this article we are going to review some of my favorite rare philodendrons.
As you explore the world of rare philodendrons you will learn that there are more rare plants than you might have actually once thought. Some rare philodendrons cost upwards of ten times the cost of a common plant. Also, these rare philodendrons are typically not sold at your local big box store or garden center.
You may assume the Philodendron Pink Princess is the most rare philodendron on our list. However, there are a few that rival the Pink Princess in price and availability. As of today, the Philodendron Spiritus Sancti actually tops the list.
Philodendron Spiritus Sancti
The Philodendron Spiritus Sancti sports 2 foot (60 cm) long, deep green leaves. Also, if grown in optimum conditions they may produce lovely white flowers. Of course humidity needs to be at 50% or higher for this to happen.
The Brazilian state of Espirito Santo is the only place in the entire world where this Philodendron can be found growing in the wild. Hence, where the name comes from and why it is such a rare philodendron.
In fact, it is nearly extinct in its native habitat with only about six of these large plants reportedly left in the wild. Therefore, the endangered Spiritus Sancti is protected by security guards and CCTV in order to keep it under close supervision.
Philodendron Spiritus Sancti Price
The cost of a decent sized Philodendron Spiritus Sancti could set you back $10,000 or more. That is, if you can actually find one for sale or get on a waiting list. I found a few online and prices range from $900-$12,000. Making it the most expensive Philodendron.
Philodendron Spiritus Sancti For Sale
Fantastic Gardens Hawaii currently sells a 2 gallon pot for $12,000. That is more than I paid for my first two cars combined! And yes that does show how old I am!
Red Leaf Exotics have a limited number of smaller plants grown from seed. They are regularly priced at $1,200 and currently on sale for $900. Definitely still a little much for me to pay for a plant. Although, they really are stunning plants.
Rare Philodendron Varieties
Philodendron Whipple Way
The Philodendron Whipple Way is a rare, slow grower. This is not uncommon for a mostly white plant as they lack chlorophyll. When grown in bright light, leaves are white with tiny green and pink speckles.
Typically leaves turn a lime green color as they mature. You should see a boost in growth when this happens. The green leaves provide more energy for the plant. In fact, leaves can grow over 1 foot (30 cm) long and 4-5 inches (10-12 cm) wide.
Also known as Philodendron Mottled Whipple Way. Oddly enough, the plant creators named it after the street they live on. Keep in mind many find Philodendron Whipple Way is a tad high maintenance. However, certainly a wish list plant for many variegated plants collectors.
Philodendron Whipple Way Price
You can expect to pay anywhere from $2500-$9500 for a Philodendron Mottled Whipple Way. Of course price will vary depending on the size and your market. I found some rooted cuttings in 3 to 4 inch pots that are sold online for $8,000 by Brian’s Botanicals.
Philodendron Whipple Way Etsy
Etsy seller Botanicaz has rooted cuttings for $4500. However, if you are looking for a fully rooted Philodendron Whipple Way, you can pick one up from Etsy seller FloristaPearl for $9500.
Philodendron Caramel Marble
Caramel Marble is one of the most coveted Philodendron plants in the world. Definitely a slow grower, adding more to demand in price.
Mature Caramel Marble Philodendron plants are absolutely stunning. Foliage is flame shaped, growing radially outward. Variations in colors on the new leaves range from caramel brown, sunset orange, fire red, bright pink, to deep forest green.
Since Caramel Marbles are ridiculously expensive right now, you may want to start with a cheaper option if you are new to plants. Philodendron Jungle Boogie or Philodendron Ring of Fire have beautiful variegation as well. In fact, Philodendron Carmel is believed to be related to the narrow-leaf Ring of Fire.
Philodendron Caramel Marble Price
Caramel Marble sells anywhere from $2,000.00 to $8,000.00. In fact, in the past it has been known to sell for as much as $13,000. Insane right?? Currently a rooted cutting sells for $2,000 on Etsy.
The Pink Princess Philodendron is another rare beauty. Definitely a coveted plant on many Philodendron collectors wish lists.
The Pink Princess is a climber and can grow to around 5 feet (1.5 m) in ideal conditions. Although it will need support, such as a moss pole.
It is a striking beauty with pink variegation. Hence the name Pink Princess. In fact, the Latin word “erubescens” (er-yoo-BESS-kens) means blushing, reddish, or becoming red. Pink Princess stems are deep red and leaves range from pink to chocolate brown.
A Pink Princess Philodendron (Philodendron erubescens) in a 4 inch (10 cm) nursery pot currently sells for $59.99 on Amazon. And, shipping is an additional $2.99.
A Philodendron Pink Princess, 2 inch (5 cm) plant is currently selling for $68.99 on Amazon. Shipping is an additional $5.00.
Want to learn more deatiled care instructions for PPP? Read our post about Philodendron Pink Princess and Care and Propagation here.
Philodendron Pink Princess For Sale
Philodendron Billietiae Variegated
Another one of the pricey, rare Philodendrons here. In fact, the variegated version with speckled green and yellow leaves costs around $1000 per leaf. Specifically because the variegation is quite rare. In fact, only about 1 in 100,000 plants will develop variegation.
Philodendron billietiae plants are native to Brazil, Guyana, and French Guiana. In fact, it was only recently discovered in 1995. Also, known especially for its distinctive orange-yellow petioles and wavy, ridged leaf edges. However, if it does not get the care it needs, it will revert to a non-variegated plant.
Non-variegated Billietiae has green leaves with orange stems. They are much less expensive at around $100 a leaf.
Philodendron Ring of Fire
The Philodendron Ring of Fire is an ultra-rare philodendron. Definitely a wish list plant for many collectors. Variegation can vary from leaf to leaf on this slow-growing philodendron.
New leaves unfurl in shades of red, orange, cream, and green. Mature leaves are large and deeply serrated. Thus giving the appearance of burning fire.
Ring of Fire is believed to be a hybrid between the Philodendron Tortum and Philodendron Wendlandii. Although, the exact lineage isn’t entirely clear. In fact, it was once called Henderson’s Pride.
Philodendron White Knight
The Philodendron White Knight is one of the most rare philodendrons. Green leaves are variegated in shades of white. Also, stems have beautiful red with white variegation.
The white variegation comes from lack of chlorophyll. Typically the result of a cell mutation, inherited (genetic), or occurs randomly (chimeric). Indeed, this rare philodendron is quite expensive, even for a small cutting.
Philodendron White Princess
The Philodendron White Princess is rare, yet easy to grow. In fact, it is quite similar to White Knight. However, it tends to grow faster and with stronger vines.
Stems are streaked in a beautiful red with white variegation. And, leaves are splattered with bright white to cream variegation.
Philodendron White Wizard
White Wizard Philodendron is another coveted, variegated beauty. In fact, the white variegation is extremely bright and it often occurs on both the stem and leaves.
Philodendron White Wizard Price
Typically the White Wizard sells for over $200. I have seen some rooted cuttings popping up on Etsy that are between $80 to $100.
Philodendron Strawberry Shake
The Philodendron Strawberry Shake has dark red stems and its leaves feature a very unique multi-color variegation. In fact, leaves can have varying shades of green, yellow, orange, and red. Indeed one of the prettiest rare philodendrons.
Philodendron Strawberry Shake Price
The Philodendron Strawberry Shake can cost from $300 to over $1000. Of course this depends on the size of the plant and the amount of variegation on the leaves.
Philodendron melanochrysum
Philodendron melanochrysum is also known as Black Gold Philodendron. In fact, melanochrysum literally means black gold. A beautiful yellow vein runs through the dark green leaves. The long, velvety leaves can grow up to 2 feet (6 cm) in length.
Philodendron melanochrysum Price
In 2018 prices for Philodendron melanochrysum were around $500. I found a shop online called Ecuagenera that sells them for around $60. $39 for the plant, plus $20 shipping. In fact, they ship to the US from Ecuador twice a month. Black Gold Philodendron (Philodendron melanochrysum)
Philodendron melanochrysum For Sale
Several sellers on Etsy sell cuttings for under $50. Although a well-rooted plant is going for around $100.
Black Cardinal Philodendron
Looking for a rare black philodendron? Then look no further than the Black Cardinal Philodendron. Of course named after her striking black leaves. However, they do actually start off burgundy and then darken as they age.
Philodendron Black Cardinal is a dark stunner that loves bright, indirect light. However, due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals, they are considered toxic and should be kept away from children and pets. I found a few 4 inch (10 cm) pots sold online for around $25.00.
Black Cardinal Philodendron For Sale
The Silver Sword Philodendron is a rare narrow-leaf vining variety. Their edgy shape and shiny look earned its name after a sword. To keep their vibrant silver color, they prefer shade to partial shade.
A 4 inch (10 cm) is currently around $30-$40 in my area. This may vary depending on your market and availability. In fact, it is still listed as an endangered plant.
Silver Sword loves to climb and if you provide support for it to do so, you will be rewarded with sharper leaves. In fact, with sufficient support it will grow to several feet tall. Also grows well in arrangements, hanging baskets, planters, and containers.
The Philodendron Florida Beauty is a stunning evergreen trailing plant. In fact, word is that it is a hybrid of Philodendron pedatum and Philodendron squamiferum.
Also, Florida Beauty produces lovely cream flowers. The leaves are deep green with variable variegation. In fact, variegation can appear in splotches or cover most of the leaf.
The Philodendron Florida Beauty is a lot more affordable than the variegated version. Also, leaves are solid green.
Philodendron Joepii
The Philodendron Joepii (pronounced yoop-EE-eye) is an exotic climber whose leaves grow approximately 27 inches (70 cm) long with optimal care. It is extremely rare and considered to be almost extinct in the wild. In fact, it is still under scientific investigation. Therefore, it has not been officially scientifically identified.
This plant is named after Joep Moonen who discovered it in French Guiana in 1991. Specifically, during an ecological tour of the Mararoni River. In fact, it was growing in an ant’s nest.
The Dutch botanist and researcher was intrigued by the strangely shaped leaves. Initially, he assumed the leaves had been chewed by insects. Finally, after searching extensively for more plants, he was only able to locate one more plant.
Joep believed it to be a natural hybrid between Philodendron bipennifolium and Philodendron pedatum. Indeed a prolific grower and easy to care for.
Joepii prefers medium, indirect light. However, it will also tolerate lower light levels. Well-draining soil is best and water every one to two weeks. Temperatures between 65-75°F (18-23°C) are preferred.
Philodendron Joepii For Sale
A 2-3 inch (5-8 cm) seedling is currently for sale on Etsy for $280 by HappyPlantsChicacgo. Also, PlantHut is currently selling a partially rooted cutting for $395 on Etsy.
Philodendron mamei
Philodendron mamei is commonly called Philodendron Silver Cloud. Green leaves form silver cloud-like patterns. Hence the common name “Silver Cloud”.
This fast climber was discovered in 1883, deep in forests in Ecuador. Also known for their ruffled stem. Prefers bright, indirect sun and weekly watering. Keep out of direct sun to maintain the silvery leaf color.
When grown in optimum condition, the plant will grow up to 6 feet (1.8 m) tall with up to 18 inch (45 cm) leaves. In fact, it occasionally produces red flowers. Mamei prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15.5-24°C).
New Philodendron Orange Marmalade leaves are a mottled bright orange. Then, they fade into a speckled green with goldish flecks. Average warmth is required. Therefore, no less than 55°F (12.8°C) in winter.
Philodendron Orange Marmalade Price
Orange Marmalade will set you back anywhere from $100-$250.
Looking for an orange philo, but don’t want to pay the Marmalade price? Check out the Philodendron Prince of Orange self-heading hybrid. It grows up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall.
Also, it does not trail or climb like many other philodendron varieties. Therefore, great for small spaces or offices.
Leaves are very unique in color. In fact, they change color over time. New leaves emerge a bright yellow, then to copper tones, and ultimately settling into darker shades of green.
Is Philodendron Prince of Orange rare?
Prince of Orange is a relatively rare Philodendron variety. However, in the past few years it has become much more commonplace and affordable. In fact, I found a 2.5” pot on Amazon for only $14.99. Also known as Philodendron Tricolor and Orange Prince.
Philodendron Royal Queen
The Philodendron Royal Queen is a rare variety with beautiful glossy leaves. In fact, leaves unfurl as a deep burgundy color and then fade to black. As they age, leaves fade back to deep green. Also known as Philodendron ‘New Red’.
Philodendron Royal Queen Price
Royal Queen can be found online from $50 -$150 depending on the size.
The Philodendron 69686 is a rare unnamed hybrid. Hence the name is its plant identification number. In fact, it has been incorrectly confused with Philodendron Joepii for years. This French Guiana native is also called Poor Man’s Joepii.
Philodendron Tahiti
Deep green leaves of Philodendron Tahiti have a slightly cascading habit. In fact, leaves are larger than many other philodendron varieties, and deeply cut.
Philodendron Florida Ghost
The Philodendron Florida Ghost leaves start off either white, pale green or yellow. Then, the ghost shaped leaves change to a darker green. Prefers bright, indirect light. However, no direct sun.
Philodendron Florida Ghost Price
In the past the Philodendron Florida Ghost plant would have cost you around $200. However, I have seen few online that sell them from $50 and up.
Philodendron Florida Ghost For Sale
Etsy seller SunRayPlants currently has a rooted cutting for $45 plus shipping. Also, I found another Philodendron Florida Ghost in a 4 inch pot for $120 from TaylorGardens.
The Philodendron Imperial Red is a rare variety with beautiful red oval-shaped leaves. Although, as they mature, they turn red-purple and then glossy green. Philodendron Imperial Red prefers warm temperatures (65-80°F/18–27°C), bright shade, consistent moisture, and humidity.
This is a low maintenance plant and tolerates shade very well. Also, Philodendron Imperial Red is not pet friendly. Although classified as rare, it is relatively easy to find.
The Philodendron Congo Rojo produces new leaves that unfurl in a deep, shiny red. Hence the name “Rojo”. Mature leaves fade to a burgundy green color. It prefers temperatures between 76-86°F (24-30°C) during the day and between 65 -72°F (18-22°C) at night.
The Philodendron Birkin has gorgeous, glossy green leaves. They have hints of cream variegation forming stripes as they mature. Tolerates dry indoor conditions. However, they thrive in humidity as most Philodendrons varieties do.
Philodendron Birkin Price
Although Birkin Philodendron are classified as rare, it was specially bred as a ‘designer’ plant. They are much easier to find today, than even a few years ago. A plant in a 4 inch pot now sells for around $20. While a 6 inch plant sells for around $50.
Birkin Philodendron For Sale
The Philodendron Moonlight has beautiful light-green foliage. Although new leaves start as a bright yellow-green chartreuse color. As it matures, leaves will get more coarse and more prominently ribbed.
The Philodendron Goeldii is another rare philodendron variety. Also known as Gold Philo, Finger Leaf, Philodendron Fun Bun, and Thaumatophyllum spruceanum.
The Goeldii is a vigorous climber with large, glossy, green leaves that multiply as it grows. In fact, their gorgeous leaves split up into individual, star-shaped leaves as they mature and spiral upwards. In warmer months, add fertilizer to help keep the plant healthy and upright. Also, prefers moderate indirect sunlight.
The Philodendron Mia is a new, rare, mounding Philodendron cultivar. Definitely resembles the shape of Philodendron Birkin. However, leaves are a solid deep-green and without veins.
Also similar to Philodendron Eva. Although, Eva has bigger leaves that are slightly lighter. This easy to care for plant remains small and compact. Thus, perfect for any home or office.
The Philodendron Golden Goddess is native to Thailand. This Goddess grows best in bright, indirect light. Its bold chartreuse foliage loves to climb. Also known as Malay Gold.
Philodendron Little Hope
McColley's Finale Philodendron
Philodendron Identification
Below are some of my favorite more common types of philodendrons. In fact, many can be found at your local garden center or even at a big box store.
The Philodendron selloum is often sold as Philodendron bipinnatifidum. Also commonly called: Split Leaf Philodendron, Tree Philodendron, Lacy Tree Philodendron, Elephant Ear Philodendron, Cut Leaf Philodendron, or Self heading Philodendron.
The Philodendron bipinnatifidum will survive in less than ideal growing conditions. As long as it is not subjected to periods of extended freeze. A common landscape plant in warmer climates. However, it is typically referred to as Philodendron selloum rather than its accepted scientific name, Philodendron bipinnatifidum.
Selloum Philodendron For Sale
The Philodendron Micans is a velvety variety. In fact, leaves are soft to the touch with a light shimmer. Although, new leaves start off pink, maturing into a dark, coppery-green. Also, Micans prefers Medium to bright indirect light.
Philodendron Lemon Lime is also known as Neon Philodendron. This bright and cheery beauty is sure to make you smile. Leaves are chartreuse to bright yellow and happy as can be. Read more about Philodendron Lemon Lime Care and Propagation here.
To learn more, visit our post about Burle Marx Philodendron Care and Propagation here.
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