Breaking News: New Zealand Houseplant Sets Auction Record, Fetching $19,200 in Fierce Online Battle
In an astonishing turn of events, a seemingly unassuming houseplant adorned with only nine leaves has stunned the online community, selling for an unprecedented $19,297 on a popular New Zealand auction platform.
The bidding frenzy ensued as enthusiasts clamored for the coveted “very rare white variegated Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma.” In a nail-biting finale, two determined bidders, identified as “foliage_patch” and “meridianlamb,” engaged in a fierce showdown, driving the price to extraordinary heights.
Trade Me representative, Millie Silvester, shared with CNN the plant’s newfound status as “the most valuable houseplant ever auctioned” on their platform. With over 102,000 views and more than 1,600 watchlists, the plant’s allure captivated the hearts of Kiwis across the nation.
Translated to New Zealand dollars, the winning bid amounted to a staggering $27,100, a testament to the escalating demand for unique indoor foliage. Silvester highlighted the exponential surge in plant prices, attributing it to the burgeoning popularity of houseplants among New Zealanders.
“This botanical marvel features eight lush leaves, with the ninth leaf delicately unfurling. Adorned with exquisite variegation throughout the stem and leaves, this specimen is securely rooted in a 14cm pot,” described the seller, known as “Hurley88.”
Variegation, characterized by the presence of multiple hues within the foliage, adds to the plant’s allure, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. Originating from Thailand and Malaysia, the Rhaphidophora Tetrasperma boasts a rich botanical heritage, as noted by the Royal Gardens at Kew’s online plant registry.
While “Hurley88” noted the plant’s location in Auckland, New Zealand’s bustling metropolis, as the preferred pickup spot, the allure of this botanical gem transcended geographical boundaries, attracting a staggering 248 bids from eager enthusiasts worldwide.
In a previous auction, “Hurley88” garnered attention for a variegated Monstera plant, fetching 6,551 NZD, with a promise to donate 1,000 NZD to charity, underscoring the compassionate spirit within the botanical community.