Dearest plant enthusiast readers, welcome to the whimsical world of animal-shaped rare plants! Perfect for plant enthusiasts and collectors, these rare beauties are sure to captivate anyone who sees them. Today you’ll get to know 5 fascinating plants with animal-shaped features that you need to add to your collection.
5 Animal-Shaped Rare Plants You Need in Your Collection
Purple Butterfly Plant
The Purple Butterfly Plant, scientifically known as Oxalis triangularis, is a delightful addition to any indoor garden. Its deep purple, triangular leaves are reminiscent of butterfly wings in mid-flight. Each leaf is composed of three leaflets, and they exhibit nyctinasty – opening during the day and closing at night – mimicking the movements of a butterfly. In addition to its captivating foliage, the plant produces small, delicate pink or white flowers that add to its charm. The Purple Butterfly Plant is not only a visual delight but also easy to care for, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts.
Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Humidity: Thrives in moderate humidity levels. Regular misting can be beneficial.
- Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
It’s always a difficult question to answer every time I see some eccentric plant photos floating on the internet: Where to Buy?! And we are here to help you with that. As rare as these purple butterflies, I have found the right store on Etsy for it and it is ON SALE for only $14.99.
Being live plants, they may vary slightly in sizing. All plants will come in a 4″ growers pot. The store will provide you with the healthiest, fullest, and longest plants available!
Meet the Purple Butterfly Plant on Etsy here!
Bat Plant (Tacca chantrieri)
The Bat Plant, or Tacca chantrieri, is one of the most striking and mysterious plants you can add to your collection. It features dark purple to black flowers that resemble the wings of a bat, complete with long, whisker-like bracts that can grow up to 28 inches long. This plant’s dramatic appearance makes it a conversation starter. Native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, the Bat Plant thrives in warm, humid environments and is perfect for creating a lush, exotic atmosphere indoors.
Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers partial shade or filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight.
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Use lukewarm water for best results.
- Humidity: Requires high humidity levels, ideally around 70-80%. Using a humidifier or placing the pot on a pebble tray with water can help.
- Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C).
Just when I thought this Bat Plant was impossible to find, Etsy proved me wrong. I have found these nice Tacca chantrieri or Black Bat plants on this store and it also comes with a ~4 inch pot at least 8 to 12 inches tall with very well established roots. For $24.97, you can have one too!
Add this mysterious beauty to your collection here!
Bunny Ear Cactus (Opuntia microdasys)
The Bunny Ear Cactus, also known as Opuntia microdasys, is a charming and unique cactus that is native to Mexico. It features pads that resemble bunny ears, giving it an adorable and playful appearance. The pads are covered with tiny, fuzzy spines called glochids, which form polka-dot patterns across the surface. Unlike many cacti, the Bunny Ear Cactus does not grow tall but rather spreads out, creating a dense, bushy look. It occasionally produces small, yellow flowers followed by purple fruits, adding to its ornamental value.
Care Tips:
- Light: Requires bright, direct sunlight. Place it near a south-facing window for best results.
- Water: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
- Soil: Use well-draining cactus or succulent soil mix.
- Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 70-100°F (21-38°C).
Bunny-ear-shaped Cactus were like a distant dream—but I never give up on my dream… I found these on Etsy for only $6.97 and they come in a 2” pot. The quality is Greenhouse grown and it is so worth it.
Bring home this charming cactus today!
Medusa’s Head (Euphorbia flanaganii)
Medusa’s Head, scientifically known as Euphorbia flanaganii, is a fascinating succulent with long, snake-like stems that radiate from a central base, mimicking the mythical Gorgon Medusa’s hair. This unique plant is native to South Africa and is prized for its unusual appearance and low-maintenance care requirements. The stems are green and can grow quite long, creating a mesmerizing, tentacle-like effect. Occasionally, it produces small, yellow-green flowers at the tips of the stems, adding a touch of color to its dramatic look.
Care Tips:
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct sunlight.
- Water: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
- Soil: Use well-draining, sandy soil.
- Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C).
Rare plants always seemed out of reach—and this one is not an exception. They are difficult to find, but hard work pays off! The Medusa’s Head is on Etsy waiting for you to pick them up and give them careful treatment. The price is $12.99 for a Medusa’s Head packaged with love and care. You know what to do!
Add this intriguing plant to your collection here!
Coral Cactus (Euphorbia lactea ‘Cristata’)
The Coral Cactus, also known as Euphorbia lactea ‘Cristata,’ is a unique plant that resembles ocean coral. It features a crested, wavy form that can vary in color from green to pink, purple, or white. This plant is actually a grafted specimen, combining a Euphorbia lactea crest onto a Euphorbia neriifolia rootstock, resulting in its unusual and striking appearance. The Coral Cactus is not only visually captivating but also relatively easy to care for, making it a great addition to any indoor garden.
Care Tips:
- Light: Requires bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent sunburn.
- Water: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
- Soil: Use well-draining cactus or succulent soil mix.
- Temperature: Prefers temperatures between 60-85°F (16-29°C).
A touch of the sea never seems so hard to find, I know. But hey, I’m here to make your wish come true. Treat yourself a Coral Cactus to add a sense of seaside to your place for $45.54, why not?
FAQs
Q: Are animal-shaped plants difficult to care for?
A: Animal-shaped plants are generally low-maintenance and easy to care for, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts. They typically require bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, and minimal watering.
Q: Where can I buy rare animal-shaped plants online?
A: Online retailers like Etsy offer a variety of rare animal-shaped plants. Additionally, specialized succulent and cactus nurseries often have a selection of these unique plants.
Q: What are the best conditions for growing animal-shaped plants?
A: Most animal-shaped plants thrive in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. They prefer moderate to high humidity levels and should be watered sparingly to avoid overwatering.
Q: How do I propagate animal-shaped plants?
A: Propagation methods vary by species, but many animal-shaped plants can be propagated through stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, or division. Refer to specific propagation guides for each plant for best results.
Animal-shaped rare plants are a fantastic way to bring nature’s unique artistry into your home. These whimsical and captivating plants not only enhance your decor but also offer a rewarding and enjoyable gardening experience.
Ready to add these stunning plants to your collection? Visit the links above to shop for your favorites and elevate your indoor garden with the mesmerizing beauty of animal-shaped rare plants.
