Welcome to the Jungle: Rare Tropical Houseplants to Collect, Grow, and Love

Offolter, owner of a tropical plant nursery, shares her love for collecting and looking after houseplants in this smart guide. “Almost everything I have learned about plant care came from the mistakes I made,” Offolter writes, offering quick lessons on avoiding such pitfalls as loving a plant “to death” and overwatering. She touts the perks of the aroid family of plants specifically: the huge variety of Philodendron makes it easy to find one “to match each person’s style,” while Anthurium are “the best plants for indoor air purifying.” There are tricks for finding a reputable supplier (“To help avoid buying poached plants, ask the seller where the plants originated”); bringing a new plant home (resist repotting or fertilizing until it has some time to adjust); and watering (rainwater is the “gold standard,” so try gathering it). Readers looking for something exotic will appreciate the author’s inclusion of her 50 favorite rarities, among them the Anthurium wendlingeri and its “crushed velvet” leaves, the “skeletonized” Monstera, and the “iridescent” Philodendron luxurians. Her excitement is infectious, whether it’s her joy in discovering new leaves, the sense of wonder she finds in plants in general, or the vibrant community she’s found through her passion. Offolter’s buoyant approach will inspire casual and serious collectors alike. (May)