Gardening enthusiasts and entrepreneurs can find a unique opportunity in growing and selling exotic and rare plants.
These plants not only add beauty to any garden but also attract collectors who are willing to pay a premium for rare species.
One of the most effective ways to propagate these plants is through cuttings, which allows you to multiply your stock without the need for seeds. Here are seven exotic and rare plants that you can grow and sell in your backyard using cuttings, along with their average prices in the USA.
1. Monstera Albo (Monstera deliciosa ‘Albo Variegata’)
- Average Price: $100 to $500 per plant
The Monstera Albo is a rare and highly sought-after variety of the popular Monstera deliciosa, known for its stunning white variegation on its large, fenestrated leaves. This plant has become a favorite among collectors due to its striking appearance and rarity. Monstera Albo can be propagated through stem cuttings, making it a perfect candidate for backyard cultivation. With proper care, each cutting can develop into a full-sized plant, which can then be sold at a premium price, often ranging from $150 for smaller plants to $500 or more for mature specimens with well-developed variegation.
2. Philodendron Pink Princess
- Average Price: $75 to $300 per plant
Philodendron Pink Princess is another rare and exotic plant that has captured the hearts of plant enthusiasts. Its dark green leaves are splashed with vibrant pink variegation, making it a striking addition to any collection. This plant is relatively easy to propagate from stem cuttings, which root readily in water or soil. Given its rarity and the difficulty in producing consistent variegation, Pink Princess plants command high prices, with small plants starting around $75 and more established plants fetching up to $300.
3. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
- Average Price: $15 to $50 per plant
String of Pearls is a unique and exotic succulent that is adored for its cascading strands of round, pearl-like leaves. Native to South Africa, this plant is easy to grow and propagate from cuttings. Simply take a cutting, let it callous for a day or two, and then plant it in well-draining soil. String of Pearls is a popular choice for hanging baskets and decorative containers. The average price for a well-established String of Pearls plant ranges from $15 for smaller plants to $50 for fuller, more mature specimens.
4. Hoya Kerrii (Sweetheart Plant)
- Average Price: $10 to $75 per plant
Hoya Kerrii, also known as the Sweetheart Plant, is a charming and rare succulent vine that features heart-shaped leaves. This plant is often sold as a single-leaf cutting, which can root and eventually grow into a full vine. Fully grown Hoya Kerrii plants with multiple leaves are particularly sought after. This plant is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Depending on the size and number of leaves, prices for Hoya Kerrii can range from $10 for a single-leaf cutting to $75 or more for a well-established plant.
5. Cordyline Florida Flamingo
- Average Price: $50 to $200 per plant
The Cordyline Florida Flamingo is a stunning tropical plant that boasts vibrant, pink-tinted foliage with a mix of green and cream, creating a striking contrast that brightens any indoor or outdoor space. This plant thrives in well-draining soil and enjoys bright, indirect light, making it relatively easy to care for at home. It’s an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their collection. The Cordyline Florida Flamingo can be propagated through stem cuttings, allowing you to multiply your plants and sell them for a profit.
6. Pilea Peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant)
- Average Price: $15 to $60 per plant
Pilea Peperomioides, commonly known as the Chinese Money Plant, is a rare and exotic houseplant with a distinctive look, featuring round, pancake-shaped leaves. This plant is known for its ease of propagation through both cuttings and offshoots, which can be separated and potted up individually. The Pilea Peperomioides has seen a surge in popularity due to its unique appearance and the belief that it brings good fortune. Prices range from $15 for smaller plants to $60 for larger, well-established plants.
7. Euphorbia Trigona (African Milk Tree)
- Average Price: $20 to $80 per plant
Euphorbia Trigona, also known as the African Milk Tree, is a rare and exotic succulent that features tall, upright stems with spiky, triangular leaves. This plant is native to Central Africa and is prized for its unusual shape and structure. The African Milk Tree can be propagated easily from cuttings, which should be allowed to callous before planting in well-draining soil. Depending on the size and maturity of the plant, prices typically range from $20 for smaller cuttings to $80 for more established specimens.
Final Thoughts
Growing and selling exotic and rare plants from cuttings can be a highly profitable venture for backyard gardeners. These seven plants—Monstera Albo, Philodendron Pink Princess, String of Pearls, Hoya Kerrii, Variegated String of Hearts, Pilea Peperomioides, and Euphorbia Trigona—offer both beauty and financial opportunity. With proper care and attention, you can cultivate these rare gems in your backyard and tap into a lucrative market of plant collectors and enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, propagating these plants from cuttings is a rewarding way to turn your passion for plants into a thriving business.
