By Milan Tisdale 

If you love discovering rare and unique houseplants that look like living art, you’re not alone. Plant lovers everywhere are branching beyond common favorites and embracing exotic plants with dramatic shapes, textures, and fascinating stories. 

To help you explore some truly special plants, we connected with plant experts and PHS Philadelphia Flower Show exhibitors who shared their favorite rare and unusual houseplants — many of which will be featured in this year’s Flower Show at the PHS Hamilton Horticourt. Here’s a closer look at some of the most unique houseplants you’ll want on your radar. 

Dioscorea mexicana (Turtle Plant) 

The turtle plant, Dioscorea mexicana, features thick, woody plates that resemble a turtle shell along with long vining growth that can reach up to 30 feet in length. This rare houseplant is also known for its impressive longevity, with some specimens living for decades — including one that Flower Show exhibitor Stephen Maciejewski has had for over 40 years. As Stephen shares, “I love those massive woody plates,” which give the plant its distinctive character and lasting appeal. Frequently showcased at the Flower Show, the turtle plant has become a fan favorite among visitors. 

Bowiea volubilis (Climbing Onion) 

Bowiea volubilis, commonly known as the climbing onion, is a rare houseplant known for its glowing green bulb and delicate, wiry vines that emerge and regrow each year. Its appearance makes it one of the most unique houseplants collectors encounter. Despite its unusual look, Maciejewski notes that the plant is “very easy to grow and quite forgiving,” adding that growers can peel off a layer of the bulb’s skin, bury it halfway, and quickly see new bulblets form, making it easy to propagate and share with others.  

This striking plant has become a popular feature at the PHS Flower Show, with Stephen helping bring attention to its distinctive beauty and Gene Tobia, another long-time exhibitor showing  specimens in this year’s competition. 

Begonia dregei 

Begonia dregei is a rare houseplant that resembles a miniature bonsai tree, thanks to its thick caudex — a swollen stem base that stores water to help the plant survive in dry conditions — and its naturally sculptural growth form. Native to the rocky cliffs of South Africa, this unique begonia is both resilient and visually striking. As Gene Tobia describes it, “it looks like a miniature bonsai but behaves like a succulent — tough, sculptural, and full of personality,” making it a favorite among collectors who appreciate unusual houseplants with character. This year, Gene Tobia will be featuring Begonia dregei in the Flower Show, giving visitors the opportunity to see this remarkable plant up close.  

Pseudobombax ellipticum (Shaving Brush Tree) 

Pseudobombax ellipticum is a rare and unusual houseplant (technically a tree) known for its swollen caudex base and stunning fluffy pink flowers that resemble a shaving brush. Native to Mexico and Central America, this plant combines sculptural form with dramatic seasonal blooms, making it a true showstopper for collectors of unique houseplants.  Maciejewski has showcased this striking specimen in past Flower Show competitions, where it continues to draw attention for its beauty and distinctive structure. 

Sinningia micans (Micans Gloxinia) 

Sinningia micans is known for its dramatic above-ground caudex and deep red, textured flowers that appear almost sculpted. Native to a small region near São Paulo, Brazil, this unique houseplant blends bold structure with striking color. As Tobia notes, its growth form gives it a “bonsai-like appearance,” making it especially appealing to collectors seeking unusual houseplants with character and visual impact. 

Paphiopedilum exul (Slipper Orchid) 

Paphiopedilum exul is a rare slipper orchid native to the limestone cliffs of peninsular Thailand, where it grows close to sea level in a highly specialized environment. This unique houseplant produces elegant green-yellow blooms in late winter through spring, making it a subtle yet striking standout among unusual houseplants. As Tobia describes it, it is “a rare, quiet outlier of the Paphiopedilum world,” prized by collectors for its understated beauty and distinctive growing habits. 

Philodendron hederaceaum var. oxycardium 'Brasil’ 

When exploring rare or exotic houseplants, it’s often best to start with plants that already thrive in your space and gradually branch out from there. As Amma and Cherron from Plant and People, a plant shop and café in Philadelphia that blends a love for greenery with community and creativity explain, “With its vibrant green and yellow variegated leaves, Philodendron hederaceaum var. oxycardium 'Brasil’ is a lively and approachable houseplant that adds warmth and color to any space.” They often recommend it as a great starting point for plant lovers who want something easy to care for before exploring more unusual houseplants with similar care needs. Once comfortable with plants like Philodendron ‘Brasil’, collectors can try more unique varieties such as Philodendron tortum, which offers a striking appearance while remaining relatively approachable. 

Sansevieria masoniana 'Whale Fin’ 

For plant lovers who may not have the brightest light or a lot of time, there are plenty of eye-catching options that are still resilient. Snake plants are a great example, with unique varieties ranging from the Variegated Whale Fin to Icicle snake plants, each offering a bold look without being high maintenance. As highlighted by Plant and People, the Variegated Whale Fin snake plant features wide, paddle-like leaves with striking variegation, making it an eye-catching yet low-maintenance addition to any indoor space. Recommended for owners with lower light conditions or busy schedules, as it’s known for being incredibly durable and easy to care for. 

Epipremnum pinnatum ‘Yellow Flame’ 

With its dramatic leaf shape and bright variegation, this rare pothos variety offers all the easy care of a classic pothos while delivering a much more exotic look. Plant and People recommends this unique houseplant for those who want something unusual yet resilient, making it perfect for both new and experienced plant owners. 

Euphorbia adelkuri (Milk Bush) 

Euphorbia abdelkuri is native to an isolated volcanic island, where it has adapted to some of the harshest growing conditions on Earth. This rare succulent features smooth, ghost-gray columns that resemble coral pulled from the sea, giving it an almost otherworldly appearance. As Tobia describes it, it is “basically a living sculpture from a place that feels prehistoric,” making it one of the most visually striking and unusual houseplants in existence. 

See Rare and Unique Houseplants at the PHS Flower Show 

The PHS Flower Show brings together an incredible collection of rare and unique houseplants  highlighting the beauty and diversity within the world of exotic houseplants. Exhibitors and passionate collectors will showcase their most prized plants that you don't see in everyday garden centers. Visitors can explore exotic plant exhibits, watch rare houseplants compete in live judging, and learn from expert growers who are passionate about these extraordinary species. 

Whether you’re new to houseplants or a seasoned collector, attending the Flower Show allows you to see unforgettable displays, learn from experts, and experience live plant judging. If you are searching for inspiration or simply want to admire something special, the Flower Show is the perfect place to explore the extraordinary.