Houseplants have become more than just décor—they’re a lifestyle. From creating calming indoor jungles to improving air quality, plant ownership has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. While classics like pothos, snake plants, and monsteras remain favorites, there’s a new wave of unusual houseplants making their way into living rooms and Instagram feeds.
If you’re looking to add something unique to your collection or simply want to stand out from the crowd, here are seven trending houseplants that are delightfully unusual and surprisingly easy to grow.
1. String of Dolphins (Senecio peregrinus)
If you want a plant that sparks conversation, the String of Dolphins is a must. Its small, plump leaves are shaped like tiny leaping dolphins—yes, really!
- Why it’s trending: Its whimsical appearance makes it one of the most Instagram-worthy plants right now. Collectors love its rare shape and trailing growth.
- Care tips: Like most succulents, it prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Allow the soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering is the biggest risk.
- Extra perk: When happy, it produces small white flowers with a cinnamon-like scent.
2. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides)
Also called the “friendship plant,” the Chinese Money Plant has round, coin-like leaves that grow on tall, thin stems, creating a bold and graphic look.
- Why it’s trending: With minimalist design still in fashion, this plant fits perfectly in modern interiors. Its clean, circular leaves make it a natural fit for Scandinavian-style décor.
- Care tips: Place it in bright, indirect light. Water once the soil starts to dry out. It’s fast-growing and often produces baby offshoots, which you can replant or give away.
- Fun fact: It’s considered a symbol of wealth and good fortune in Feng Shui.
3. Polka Dot Begonia (Begonia maculata)
This houseplant looks like it stepped out of a fashion runway. Its dark green leaves are covered in dramatic silver polka dots, with deep red undersides that glow when light shines through.
- Why it’s trending: Plant enthusiasts can’t resist its bold, graphic leaves that photograph beautifully for social media. It’s often dubbed one of the most “fashionable” houseplants.
- Care tips: Begonias love bright but indirect light and humidity. Keep the soil slightly moist, but don’t let it sit in water. A pebble tray or humidifier will help in dry climates.
- Bonus: It blooms indoors with clusters of white flowers if it’s thriving.
4. Zebra Plant (Aphelandra squarrosa)
Known for its striking striped foliage, the Zebra Plant is an eye-catching addition to any collection. Its glossy dark green leaves are marked with bold white veins, resembling zebra stripes.
- Why it’s trending: It’s dramatic, exotic, and instantly elevates your indoor jungle. Plus, it sometimes produces bright yellow cone-shaped flowers that last for weeks.
- Care tips: Zebra plants thrive in warm, humid environments with bright, indirect light. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. They can be finicky but are rewarding when cared for correctly.
- Pro tip: Mist regularly or keep it in a bathroom with good light for added humidity.
5. Shingle Plant (Rhaphidophora hayi)
If you’re tired of the usual climbing houseplants, the Shingle Plant offers something different. Instead of dangling or sprawling, its leaves press flat against the surface it climbs, creating a unique shingle-like effect.
- Why it’s trending: It gives vertical gardens and moss poles a modern twist. Its tight, overlapping leaves create a living wall look that’s perfect for design-savvy plant parents.
- Care tips: Provide a vertical board or moss pole for it to climb. It prefers medium to bright, indirect light and consistent watering. Don’t let the soil dry out completely.
- Style idea: Use it as a living art piece by training it to climb a flat wooden panel.
6. Fishbone Cactus (Epiphyllum anguliger)
Also called the “zigzag cactus” or “ric-rac cactus,” this plant is loved for its dramatic, jagged leaves that resemble a fish skeleton.
- Why it’s trending: Its funky, sculptural look adds instant personality to any room. It’s especially popular among collectors of unusual succulents and cacti.
- Care tips: Despite being a cactus, it actually prefers indirect light and slightly moist soil (it’s a rainforest cactus, not a desert one). Water when the top inch of soil dries out.
- Surprise: With proper care, it can produce stunning, fragrant white flowers that open at night.
7. Black Velvet Alocasia (Alocasia reginula)
If you’re after something truly dramatic, the Black Velvet Alocasia delivers. Its deep, almost black leaves are contrasted by striking silvery-white veins, giving it a luxurious, velvet-like texture.
- Why it’s trending: Dark-leafed plants are having a moment in interior design. This rare variety adds mood and elegance, making it highly sought after by plant collectors.
- Care tips: Prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist and humidity high. It’s more sensitive than some houseplants, but its beauty is worth the effort.
- Decor tip: Pair it with lighter-colored plants for dramatic contrast in your collection.
Why These Unusual Houseplants Are Trending
So, what’s fueling the popularity of these unusual varieties?
- Social Media Influence: Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are driving plant trends. Eye-catching, photogenic plants rise to fame quickly.
- Desire for Rarity: Plant parents love showing off unique finds that aren’t seen in every home.
- Interior Design Synergy: Designers now use plants as focal points. Bold shapes and unusual colors fit modern aesthetics.
- Wellness Culture: Beyond their looks, unusual plants spark joy and curiosity, boosting mental well-being.
How to Care for Unusual Houseplants
Unusual plants often get a reputation for being fussy, but with the right care basics, they’ll thrive:
- Light: Most prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sun can scorch delicate leaves.
- Water: Learn each plant’s rhythm. Succulents like the String of Dolphins need less water, while tropicals like the Zebra Plant enjoy evenly moist soil.
- Humidity: Many trending plants come from tropical environments—regular misting or a humidifier helps.
- Soil: Use well-draining soil mixes suited to the plant type (succulent mix for cacti, airy potting mix for tropicals).
- Observation: Check leaves regularly for signs of stress, like yellowing or drooping.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to branch out from the ordinary, these seven unusual houseplants—String of Dolphins, Chinese Money Plant, Polka Dot Begonia, Zebra Plant, Shingle Plant, Fishbone Cactus, and Black Velvet Alocasia—are the perfect way to refresh your indoor jungle.
Not only do they bring personality and flair to your home, but they also connect you to a growing community of plant enthusiasts who value uniqueness and creativity in their collections. Whether you want whimsical dolphin leaves, bold polka dots, or the moody elegance of black velvet foliage, there’s a trending plant out there to match your style.
Houseplants are more than décor—they’re companions. And these unusual varieties are sure to spark joy, conversation, and maybe even a little envy among your guests.
