We’re confident you can instantly spot a snake plant, and you’d probably have no trouble pointing out a pothos plant. But would you recognize a nerve plant, dolphin succulents, or moss balls?
Nature is amazing, and some of its craziest plants make terrific houseplants. Here’s a list of some unusual houseplants that can add a unique flare to your home.
1. Bat Flower
The bat flower, which produces dark purple flowers resembling bats, makes unusual houseplants. Its flowers blossom in late spring or early summer and the plant can grow up to 12 inches wide.
This tropical perennial thrives indoors. However, it doesn’t grow well in arid environments, which may pose a challenge when growing it inside.
Bat flowers should only be watered enough to keep the soil slightly moist. Using a container with a drainage hole will help prevent oversaturation of the soil so the plant’s roots don’t rot.
2. Lifesaver Cactus Plant
The lifesaver cactus plant, also known as a lifebuoy plant, is truly unique. It produces star-shaped striped red and cream flowers that have a shiny raised rubber-like maroon-colored ring in its center.
Lifesaver cactus plants are succulents, which means they are low maintenance and easy to grow. They grow well in warmer climates, and the ideal place for this plant is on the patio in partial shade.
3. Dolphin Succulents
Dolphin succulents are captivating in any setting! This plant’s curvy leaves resemble leaping dolphins. It can grow vines that are over 3 feet, making it an excellent choice for planting in a hanging basket, in a pot on top of a bookshelf, or on a stair landing.
Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, especially when the weather is hot. Instead, place them in a south-facing window that gets at least 6 hours of morning sunlight each day.
It can only withstand temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so don’t put it outside if you live in a colder climate.
4. Bunny Succulents
Bunny succulents are unusual, but they make great houseplants. They have small bunny-shaped leaves that can be white, pink, or green.
They are relatively easy to maintain. They only require water once or twice a week in warmer months. They grow best in sand or succulent garden soil and in full sun or light shade.
5. Corkscrew Grass
This little beauty will be a unique addition to your houseplant collection. Each stem of this plant, which can grow up to 8 inches tall, is spiral-shaped. Under prime conditions, it can produce spiky hanging flowers.
These lovely miniature plants, which sprout from bulbs, are a one-of-a-kind houseplant that grows well in pots and outside in temperatures of at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Place your corkscrew grass plant where it can enjoy filtered sunshine or bright, indirect light.
6. Club Moss
Club moss is a houseplant that fits in well in contemporary environments. It thrives in humid, low-light environments, making it an ideal plant for a small terrarium, the bathroom, or kitchen. Its dense foliage can range in color from green to gold.
7. Desert Rose
The desert rose is a slow-growing plant that only grows about 12 inches each year. It is a popular bonsai plant with a wide trunk and thin, soft foliage. It produces deep pink or red trumpeting flowers in the summer before going dormant in the winter.
Desert rose plants should be watered regularly and placed in an area where they can get plenty of sunlight. Plant it in well-draining sandy or gravel soil to emulate its native desert environment. Keep the soil moist but ensure the roots don’t get waterlogged.
