Hybrid Plants
Welcome to a very special category of indoor plants: hybrid plants! These plants are a cross between two or more different plants. In nature, this happens through mechanisms like insects or wind facilitating cross-pollination. In the world of plant enthusiasts, however, this process is carried out manually using various methods to create new plants that combine the best traits of their parent plants. This results in new plant species with beautiful foliage and unique characteristics.
However, the DNA of each hybrid plant differs slightly, even if they are bred from the same parent plants. Think of them as siblings, not identical twins. Each hybrid plant has its own unique characteristics, making it extra exciting and enjoyable to collect them.
Which plant families have hybrids?
There are hybrids in various plant families, such as Begonia, Philodendron, Hoya, and Anthurium. But there are many more plant families where hybrid plants occur—hybrid broccoli plants are not uncommon either! The number of plant families with hybrid members is extremely diverse and extensive. To make it easier for you, we've listed our top 5 popular hybrid indoor plants here!
Top 5 Popular Hybrid Plants
1. Anthurium Luxurians x Radicans
The Anthurium Luxurians x Radicans displays all the beautiful traits you'd love to see from both parent plants. Think of the rich texture of the Luxurians and the leaf shape and colour of the Radicans. The result is a breathtaking indoor plant that should definitely be at the top of your wishlist.
2. Philodendron Glorious
The Philodendron Glorious is a luxurious-looking hybrid plant with beautiful velvety leaves. This hybrid is a cross between Philodendron Melanochrysum and Philodendron Gloriosum. Both parent plants are highly beloved among plant enthusiasts, making this lovechild highly sought after!
3. Hoya Mathilde
Yes, Hoya plants also have many beautiful hybrid varieties. Hoya Mathilde is a cross between Hoya Carnosa and Hoya Serpens, showcasing beautiful characteristics from both parent plants, such as the green speckled leaves from Carnosa and the adorable leaf shape of Serpens. This makes Hoya Mathilde a botanical gem!
4. Philodendron Painted Lady
Philodendron Painted Lady is a colourful indoor plant that truly stands out in any space! The parent plants of this cheerful lady are Philodendron Erubescens and another one that is unfortunately not well-documented. However, we can certainly see the red accents of Erubescens in this very handsome Philodendron species!
5. Anthurium Magnificum x Luxurians
Another highly attractive Anthurium hybrid is Anthurium Magnificum x Luxurians. This lovechild is also a great success, featuring the beautiful texture from Luxurians and the leaf shape and allure of Magnificum. Gorgeous, isn't it?