- Philodendrons - first one that came to mind, so many varieties! The care has been really similar to monsteras for me.
- Hoya - agree with the other poster’s suggestion! I think a hoya would look nice next to your tradescantia, and there are so many interesting types. Plus they might flower if you’re lucky!
- ZZ plant - a bit of a different shape/growth pattern from what you have and quite low maintenance
- Peperomia - a more compact suggestion and somehow very giftable imo!
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I think a jewel orchid such as a Macodes petola can make for a really nice gift for someone who likes plants. They are not in the "super easy" category but certainly "easy enough". There are some really cool varieties to choose from. Personally I love the ones with bright green and gold veins, but there are also dark colored ones.
Orchids do have some different requirements, so your boyfriend might have to do a bit of reading and video watching to learn about orchid care. You can get the orchid with some substrate, an orchid fertilizer, and a pot, and he'll be set. If you live in a dry place it might take some extra effort to keep it humid and happy, though.
Whoa, the species you suggested has some very unique patterning. Different from any orchid I've seen before. I think he would love something like that. Do you know if it's possible to divide orchids? Thanks for the suggestion
Yes, it's possible! In this extensive re-potting video the author shows how he divides them: https://youtu.be/8Kx-1T-GprA?t=1621
Edit: Sorry, I linked the wrong video! That's just cutting for cleaning. One sec, I'll find the correct video....
Edit 2: Ok, I think this would be helpful: https://youtu.be/b_xF0cK98Xg?t=610
I'm also a monstera and fern fan. I also like Aloes and Cycads. Cycads can be expensive and hard to find though. But aloes on the other hand, are much easier, and very easy to maintain.
Hindu/hoya rope plant would be a pretty cool addition to your collection.
If you have the space, a ficus is a pretty classic houseplant with different contours than the plants you have already.
Thank you! The leaves on these look quite similar to our rubber plant - is that a type of ficus?
Yes, rubber plants are ficus types. But to be fair, there is a huge variety within the ficus, so look them up. Some have very small leaves, other have very large and sparse leaves.
I didn't know that about rubber plants, thanks. Yes, I was thinking of the ficus benjamina, with smallish leaves and an arching/drooping habit.
Would you consider a carnivorous plant? I have a Butterworts plant and it helps with any little gnats or fruit flies that occasionally get inside.
They're relatively easy to propagate, unique and very satisfying to grow!
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