The word 'rare' itself has the meaning of 'not occurring very often', 'not found in large numbers and consequently of interest or value' and finally 'unusually good or unremarkable'.
Many plants could fall into those definitions. But they also change by the year. Two years ago, you would be handfast to find a Monstera Thai, and now, they can for found for a mere $25 at Home Depot or Lowes. Or when the coveted Monstera Mini Albo sold for nearly $19,300 at an auction in 2021. While Albos have remained on top, they price is significantly lower, at around $200.
While not one of my particular favorite plants, and certainly not one I would classify as rare: A 50-year-old Fiddle Leaf Fig achieved a remarkable price of $80,000 in 2021, due to its extraordinary size, age, and perfect form. An Orchid brought in over $200,000, and two Bonzi trees came in with 1.3 million and 2 million each. Again, I would not classify these as rare for myself, but to the people purchasing them, they were/are.
What about the Philodendron Spiritus Sancti? There were only 4-6 known specimens left in the wild of Brazil a year ago. It was nearly lost to extinction but thankfully some collectors managed to propagate it. From last years $8000-$40000 cost, to this year; under $100 for this plant!
For 2025, it looks like Monsteras are staying on the list with the Bulbasaur, White Monster, and the Devil Monster. Each costing thousands for a 2-to-4-inch starter plant. Tissue Cultures are coming in hot as well with some costing hundreds.
So, what really makes a plant rare? Perhaps it is supply and demand, the colors, limited availability, or just the want/need for it to be yours.
What are your thoughts?
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