Here at Flora Grubb Gardens, we like to throw around the phrase “unicorn plant” to describe some magical, unattainable plant that we all want. Lucky for us, our growing team down at Grubb & Nadler Nurseries has been working hard to cultivate a few of these rare unicorns for you—and just in time for the holidays! These exotic rarities make great gifts for your treasured loved ones.

The giant bird of paradise—sometimes known as “banana leaf plant” or “banana palm” (although it is neither a palm nor a banana!)—can grow both indoors and outdoors here in the Bay Area. It has a lovely breezy tropical look, but unlike most tropical-style plants, it doesn’t need much water to thrive once it’s established. So it’s a great choice for drought-prone areas and low-water gardens!