Top 10 +1 Easy Rare Houseplants to Gift This Thanksgiving

November 18, 2024

Hey plant fam! 🌿 Let's talk about something that's been on my mind lately – finding the perfect Thanksgiving gift that isn't the usual bottle of wine or scented candle (not that there's anything wrong with those!). After years of experimenting with different plants (and yes, killing quite a few along the way), I've discovered some absolutely stunning rare plants that are surprisingly forgiving. Trust me, these aren't your typical garden center finds, but they won't give your gift recipient anxiety attacks about their care either!

Why Plants Make the Ultimate Thanksgiving Gift

Before I dive into my carefully curated list, let me share why I'm obsessed with gifting plants for Thanksgiving. Unlike traditional hostess gifts that get consumed or forgotten, a plant is like giving a piece of living art that grows more beautiful with time. Every new leaf is a reminder of your gratitude, and let's be honest – there's something special about having a rare plant that makes you feel like you're part of a secret plant lovers' club.

Plus, in my experience, there's nothing quite like the look on someone's face when they unwrap a stunning variegated plant they've only seen on Instagram. It's the gift that keeps on giving, especially when they realize they can actually keep it alive!

Breaking Down My Top 5 Picks (Plus Some Bonus Beauties!)

1. Philodendron Strawberry Shake

Why I Love It: This plant is basically nature's version of a sunset in leaf form. Every time I walk past mine, I catch different colors depending on how the light hits it. The leaves showcase this incredible mix of pink, orange, and green that literally looks like someone painted them.

Care Details:

Light: Thrives in medium indirect light, but can handle lower light conditions
Water: Let the top 2 inches of soil dry between waterings
Humidity: Average room humidity is fine (40-60%)
Soil: Well-draining aroid mix
Special Feature: New leaves often emerge with a pinkish hue that intensifies with good light

Perfect For: Your friend who wants something Instagram-worthy but tends to forget about their plants for a week (or two... we've all been there).

Real Talk: I once left mine in a dark corner for three weeks during vacation, and while it wasn't thrilled, it bounced back like a champ. That's the kind of resilience we need in our lives!

2. Anthurium Wonderboy X Michelle

The Surprise Champion: I'll be honest – I was skeptical about recommending an anthurium. They have a reputation for being divas, but this hybrid is different. It's like the laid-back cousin in a family of perfectionists.

Why It's Special:

Those new leaves though! They emerge in this deep, warm red that looks like they're glowing from within
Heart-shaped leaves that actually look like valentine hearts (unlike some other "heart-shaped" plants...)
Grows relatively quickly compared to other anthuriums
Maintains its beauty even if you miss a watering

Care Guide:

Light: Medium to bright indirect light
Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Humidity: Tolerates average home humidity better than most anthuriums
Special Tip: They actually love being slightly rootbound – less repotting stress for everyone!

Personal Experience: I've had mine for two years now, and it's survived a broken humidifier, a heating crisis, and my partner's well-intentioned but overzealous watering phase. If that's not a testament to its resilience, I don't know what is!

3. Aglaonema Orange Stardust Variegated

The Confidence Booster: This is my go-to recommendation for anyone who's ever said, "I kill everything I touch." The Orange Stardust is like having autumn permanently captured in plant form.

What Makes It Special:

Stunning orange variegation that looks different on every leaf
Compact growth habit – perfect for smaller spaces
Literally thrives on neglect (I'm not endorsing plant neglect, but life happens!)
New leaves often emerge with intense coloration

Care Requirements (or lack thereof):

Light: Can handle low to bright indirect light
Water: Let it dry out between waterings
Humidity: Not picky – basic room humidity is fine
Soil: Standard potting mix works great
Bonus: Extremely pest-resistant

Real-Life Scenario: I gave one to my friend who managed to kill an air plant (impressive, right?). One year later, not only is it alive, but it's pushed out six new leaves. That's the kind of success story we love to see!

4. Philodendron Micans Variegated

The Underrated Gem: Think regular Micans is gorgeous? Wait until you see this variegated version. It's like someone took the already beautiful velvety leaves and added a subtle shimmer of autumn colors.

What Sets It Apart:

Velvety texture that catches the light beautifully
Variegation ranges from subtle to stunning with yellows, oranges, and pinks
Trailing habit makes it perfect for shelves or hanging baskets
Each leaf is unique – like snowflakes, but tropical!

Care Instructions:

Light: Medium to bright indirect light brings out the best variegation
Water: Allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings
Humidity: Average to high, but not super fussy
Climbing: Gives you the option to let it trail or climb
Propagation: Super easy to propagate – perfect for sharing with friends!

Pro Tip: Give it something to climb on, and watch those leaves get bigger and more dramatic. I started with a small cutting, and now it's the centerpiece of my plant corner.

5. Monstera Aurea Variegated

The Statement Maker: This is for when you really want to wow someone. It's like the plant equivalent of showing up to Thanksgiving dinner in a designer outfit, but without the maintenance drama.

Why It's Amazing:

Golden variegation that looks like sunshine captured in leaf form
Each leaf is unique – no two variegation patterns are exactly alike
Gets more impressive as it matures
Surprisingly adaptable to different environments

Care Guide:

Light: Bright indirect light brings out the best variegation
Water: Allow top 2-3 inches of soil to dry between waterings
Support: Provide a moss pole or trellis for best growth
Pruning: Minimal needed – mostly just removing old leaves

Success Story: My Aurea started as a single-leaf cutting and now has 8 massive leaves, each with unique variegation patterns. It's become the conversation starter at every gathering – even non-plant people are fascinated by it!

Bonus Section: The Philodendron Orange Princess

I couldn't finish this list without mentioning this beauty. While it technically didn't make the top 5, it deserves special recognition, especially for Thanksgiving gifting.

Why It's Special:

Vibrant orange-tinted leaves that perfectly match fall decor
New leaves emerge with a copper tone that's absolutely stunning
Grows relatively quickly with proper care
More affordable than some other variegated options

Care Tips:

Light: Bright indirect light brings out the best colors
Water: Let top inch of soil dry between waterings
Humidity: Average room humidity is fine
Fertilizer: Light feeding during growing season

For the Serious Collectors

If you're shopping for someone who already has an impressive collection, here are some next-level options that will make their plant-loving hearts skip a beat:

Philodendron Billietiae Variegated

The Show-Stopper:

Dramatic elongated leaves with unique yellow and green patterns
Can grow quite large with proper support
Each leaf is like a piece of abstract art
Relatively easy care for such a rare plant

Philodendron Black Cardinal Variegated

The Gothic Beauty:

Deep burgundy leaves with striking variegation
New leaves emerge with a reddish tint
Compact growth habit
Perfect for darker design aesthetics

Schismatoglottis Wallichii Variegated

The Conversation Starter:

Intricate marbled patterns on each leaf
Compact growth perfect for smaller spaces
Unique leaf shape unlike common houseplants
Thrives in terrarium conditions

Philodendron Caramel Marble

The Sweet Treat:

Creamy caramel variegation that looks good enough to eat
New leaves emerge with pink tints
Stable variegation patterns
Moderate growth rate

Matching Plants to People: A Quick Guide

The Busy Professional

Best Picks: Aglaonema Orange Stardust, Monstera Aurea
Why: Tolerant of irregular watering and varying light conditions
Care Level: Set it and (almost) forget it

The Helicopter Plant Parent

Best Picks: Anthurium Wonderboy X Michelle, Schismatoglottis Wallichii
Why: Rewards careful attention with spectacular growth
Care Level: Loves consistent care but won't die without it

The Aesthetic Enthusiast

Best Picks: Philodendron Strawberry Shake, Caramel Marble
Why: Stunning variegation and Instagram-worthy looks
Care Level: Moderate but worth the effort

The Plant Newbie

Best Picks: Aglaonema Orange Stardust, Philodendron Orange Princess
Why: Forgiving nature with impressive looks
Care Level: Perfect for building confidence

Special Care Tips for Gift Plants

Before Gifting:

Check for pests and treat preventatively if needed
Ensure the plant is well-established in its pot
Consider including:
- A basic care card
- High-quality potting mix
- A decorative outer pot
- A moisture meter for easier watering

After Care Instructions to Share:

First Week: Let the plant acclimate to its new home
Watering: Explain your recipient's specific plant's needs
Light: Help them find the perfect spot
Common Issues: Share what to watch for
Growth Expectations: Set realistic expectations for their specific plant

Making the Gift Extra Special

Want to go the extra mile? Consider creating a complete plant care package:

A beautiful ceramic pot that matches their decor
A quality moisture meter
Some slow-release fertilizer
A mini spray bottle for humidity
A handwritten care card with your personal tips

Shop These Rare Beauties

All plants featured in this guide are available at leafysoulmates.com. Here's what you'll find in our carefully curated collection:

Available Plants

For Serious Collectors

Why Shop at Leafy Soulmates?

As a small, specialized rare plant shop, we focus on what matters most:

Quality plants we personally grow and care for
Careful packaging for safe delivery
Detailed care instructions with every order
Direct support for any plant care questions

Thanksgiving Special Offer

Ready to add one of these stunning plants to your collection or surprise a plant-loving friend? Visit leafysoulmates.com to browse our selection of rare plants. Remember to use code THANKS3024 for 30% off your order.

Shop now at leafysoulmates.com

Happy planting, and may your Thanksgiving be filled with growth, gratitude, and gorgeous foliage! 🌿

Quick References

Light Guide:

Bright Indirect: Near a window with sheer curtains
Medium: 4-6 feet from a window
Low: Away from windows but still bright enough to read

Watering Guide:

Heavy: Soil stays consistently moist
Moderate: Top inch dry between waterings
Light: Top 2-3 inches dry between waterings

Humidity Guide:

High: 60%+ (bathroom or humidifier needed)
Moderate: 40-60% (average home)
Low: Below 40% (most plants can adapt)

Price Guide:

$: Under $50
$$: $50-100
$$$: $100-200
$$$$: $200+

Remember to check your local plant shops and join plant groups for the best deals and trading opportunities!