The genus Philodendron is becoming more popular every year. The demand for rare species in particular is increasing. We introduce you to 7 very rare Philodendron species that are on the wish lists of many collectors. Most of them are difficult to get and cost a lot.
1. Philodendron Red Moon
The fresh leaves are variegated yellow and red, but turn light to medium green as they grow. Variegation does not occur on all leaves and takes quite a long time to grow together, so the leaves appear burgundy green for a long time. The Philodendron red moon is a climbing plant. If you prefer bushier growth, you will have to cut it back regularly. Otherwise, the red moon does not require any special care. Plants with 4 leaves are sold for around €1,000.
2. Philodendron Spiritus Sancti
The Holy Spirit of the Philodendron. The leaves are huge, long and thin. It is in great demand and very difficult to get. There are only 6 specimens left that grow naturally in Brazil, otherwise there are several specimens in private collections. This species is difficult to reproduce, so there has only been one successful fertilization attempt in the USA. Propagation via cuttings works better, but due to the few specimens available, this also takes time. That's why it's very difficult to get your own copy and the price is very high. You can get a cutting or small plant from €800 and larger plants can quickly add up to several thousand euros.
3. Philodendron Whipple Way
The Philodendron Whipple Way has long tapered leaves. The new leaves are first light pink, then creamy white and after a long time turn green. The leaves never turn dark green, but rather mint green. This color change is what makes this Philodendron so popular. In addition, small green spots can always be seen on the leaves, which do not grow together over time. The exact leaf color depends on the location conditions and the soil, but this only determines a slight nuance in the color intensity. Medium-sized plants sell for around €7,000 and small plants for around €3,000.
4. Philodendron Joepii
A very unusual plant that has very large, long leaves that are thin in the middle, with small “ears” on the right and left at the base of the leaves. Towards the end of the leaf, the leaf becomes very large, wide and tapers to a point. This is also a very rare plant that was only discovered in French Guiana about 30 years ago. At that time, researchers only discovered 2 specimens and to date no further sightings have been reported. There was speculation that it was a natural hybrid, but this was not confirmed. Medium-sized plants sell for around €500.
5. Philodendron Lynamii
This Philodendron has huge, shiny leaves. The plant crawls along the ground and does not climb like other species. The fresh leaves are colored intensely red to pink. After a long time, these also turn dark green. The Philodendron Lynamii is not particularly difficult to care for. Like every Philodendron, it needs tropical conditions, especially humidity above 70%. The thick leaves can store water, so that even a short dry period can be survived. Small plants sell for around €400.
6. Philodendron Florida Beauty
The variegated form of the Philodendron Florida Green. The variation is yellow-green rather than completely white and can even occur on the stems. In the Florida Green these are slightly pink. Leaves with a large white portion cannot absorb as much light, i.e. cannot carry out the same amount of photosynthesis, as completely green leaves, and therefore grow more slowly. You should keep this in mind when buying or making cuttings. Medium-sized plants sell for around €500.
7. Philodendron Bicolor
This species also has very long, thin leaves. The peculiarity is that the underside of the leaf is colored red and stays that way. The top of the leaf appears a strong green, while the leaf veins are lighter. This special Philodendron species has its origins in Peru. There is no shop in Germany that offers the Philodendron Bicolor. To get this houseplant, you have to go to shops that only specialize in rare plants. A cutting of the Bicolor is traded for around €1,000.
Caring for Philodendron
The right care for your Philodendron is the FARBIO® Nitrogen Bio-Boost . It supports and strengthens your plant with important nutrients, which are essential for intensive leaf green and healthy growth of all parts of the plant.