The local horticultural world is abuzz over Maejo University’s air-purifying Philodendron, whose leaf sells for a whopping 20,000 baht while an entire plant costs a pocket-digging 50,000 baht.
The Philodendron (Philodendron billietiae Croat) is coveted for its leaves, each of which comes in its own extraordinary design – the more desirable the design, the more expensive the leaf. This photo features an 80cm leaf which sells for 20,000 baht (it can be planted). Leaves with different patterns on each half cost 15,000 baht. The entire plant will cost 50,000 baht.
While no detail was offered on this claim, it is also believed that this plant is excellent at purifying air – though we were not told how effective they are.
Thanawat Rawdkhao, a researcher at the Office of Agricultural Research and Extension Maejo University who is an expert on decorative plants said that many collectors have been cross-breeding this plant, creating more and more complex and interesting patterns which are coveted by collectors.
He said that there are also many other plants known for their air-purifying qualities, most of which can be bought at much cheaper rates.