Finding a gift for a plant lover can feel like a challenge. You want something they don’t already have, something that stands out. That’s where these quirky and unusual plants come in. Each plant offers something extraordinary, from the climbing beauty of Monstera Dubia to the resilient magic of the Rose of Jericho. These gifts are perfect for anyone who loves nature, from beginners to seasoned collectors.
Monstera Dubia – The Shingle Plant
The Monstera Dubia is a fascinating species native to Central and South America. It’s nicknamed the shingle plant because of the way its leaves lay flat against surfaces as it climbs.
This unique growth habit creates a stunning vertical display, making it a popular choice for terrariums and vivariums. The plant’s vibrant green leaves add an exotic touch to any space. This fast-growing plant is easy to care for, making it perfect for beginners. It’s also air-purifying, helping improve indoor air quality while looking beautiful. Monstera Dubia thrives in warm, humid environments and is easy to propagate, so plant lovers can share cuttings with friends.
Fun Fact: As Monstera Dubia matures, its leaves develop holes (fenestrations) like its cousin, the Monstera deliciosa.
Rose of Jericho – The Resurrection Plant
The Rose of Jericho (Selaginella lepidophylla) is a miracle of nature. Native to the deserts of Central America and the Middle East, it has an extraordinary ability to survive extreme conditions. During dry spells, it curls into a lifeless ball of twigs. But add water, and within hours it transforms, unfurling into lush greenery. This amazing process can repeat for years.
This plant’s ability to “resurrect” makes it a symbol of hope and renewal. It’s perfect for gifting to anyone who needs a little inspiration. The Rose of Jericho also has deep cultural significance. In Christian tradition, it represents the resurrection of Christ. In folk magic, it’s believed to bring peace, protection, and prosperity to a home.
Fun Fact: Its incredible resilience allows it to survive decades without water, making it one of the most durable plants on Earth.
Umbrella Plant on Lava Rock
The Umbrella Plant (Schefflera arboricola) is a showstopper. It naturally grows as an epiphyte or lithophyte in Taiwan, meaning it does’t rely on soil. Instead, it absorbs moisture and nutrients from the air or its surroundings. This setup features the plant growing on a lava rock, surrounded by fresh, live sphagnum moss. The combination creates a striking, modern display that looks straight out of a design magazine.
This plant is incredibly easy to care for, making it ideal for busy plant lovers. The live moss keeps the roots moist, while the lava rock adds an earthy, artistic touch. It’s the perfect gift for anyone who appreciates natural beauty and unusual designs.
Fun Fact: This setup mimics the Umbrella Plant’s natural environment, blending science and art in a stunning display.
Marimo Moss Ball – A Living Water Pet
The Marimo Moss Ball is a playful and low-maintenance gift. Despite its name, it isn’t moss but a type of algae that forms into velvety green spheres. Found in lakes across the globe, including Scotland, Japan, and Iceland, these unique plants thrive in water. The Marimo Moss Ball is an excellent addition to any home or office, presented in an eco-glass jar.
Caring for a Marimo is easy. Just change the water every two weeks and place it in indirect light. It’s perfect for beginners, children, or anyone who wants a “living water pet.” The Marimo also has a fascinating backstory. In Japanese culture, it’s a symbol of love and longevity.
Fun Fact: In the wild, water currents roll Marimos along lake beds, which helps them maintain their perfect spherical shape.
Lithops – Living Stones
Lithops, also known as living stones, are some of the quirkiest plants you’ll find. These tiny succulents mimic the appearance of pebbles, blending seamlessly into their surroundings. This camouflage helps them avoid predators in their native habitats of southern Africa.
Lithops are incredibly low-maintenance, making them ideal for busy plant owners. They thrive in bright light and need little water. Perfect for desks, windowsills, or even small spaces, Lithops add a unique touch to any collection. Their subtle patterns and shapes make them look like miniature works of art.
Fun Fact: Lithops only grow a new pair of leaves once a year. This slow growth makes them even more fascinating to watch over time.
Why These Plants Make Perfect Gifts
These plants are more than just decorations—they’re stories waiting to be shared.
The Monstera Dubia climbs beautifully, bringing a touch of the tropics to any space. The Umbrella Plant grows on lava rock, creating a bold, artistic display. The Rose of Jericho transforms with water, symbolizing renewal and hope. The Marimo Moss Ball is soft and velvety, perfect for a desk, bedside table, or small spaces. Lithops, with their pebble-like appearance, blend into their surroundings but always draw attention.
All these plants are easy to care for, great for beginners and experienced plant lovers alike. At Highland Moss, every plant comes with a scannable QR code, making care simple. Whether for a loved one or yourself, these plants are the perfect choice to add something extraordinary to any collection.