Exotic Planterium, Card & Collectorama in Alexandria, VA

Yesterday, we visited with by far the most unusual business in Alexandria's eclectic Del Ray neighborhood - the Exotic Planterium, Card and Comic Collectorama.

The Exotic Planterium was started some 34 years ago by owner Dennis Webb and we think it is fair to say that little, if anything, has changed since then.

Randomly stacked boxes of merchandise prevent the front door from opening all the way, it is almost impossible for two people to stand side by side and the ancient air conditioner is on its last legs. It's dusty, dirty, cluttered and a throwback to another time and place - yet intriguing.

It was tempting to be dismissive but after talking to Dennis it was easy to see how he had made this his life's work.

Where to start? Dennis graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in horticulture and a special interest in houseplants. After returning to Alexandria , Dennis joined his mother at her "Odds & Ends Antique Shop" on Mt. Vernon Avenue. Mrs. Webb offered Dennis a small unused space and he started selling small, random things and, of course, plants.

Eventually Dennis moved to his current location at 2008 Mt. Vernon Avenue.

The Exotic Planterium is self-explantatory. Plants, mainly succulents and tropical ferns occupy the front windows and often sit outside on small tables. Hand blended potting soil is available for 69 cents a scoop.

The Card and Collectorama portion of the shop reflects Dennis' interest in old baseball cards and comic books. One wall is covered in vintage comic books in plastic sleeves. Prices range from several dollars to an original Space Patrol comic book for $180. Vintage baseball cards are available in packs or individually.

There is also a wide assortment of, well, let's just call it "stuff". Tie pins, plastic red lips, troll dolls, salt & pepper shakers, vampire teeth, etc., all with hand written labels and price tags.

This original John Wayne comic sells for $95

Interestingly, Dennis does not travel to card or comic or plant shows to purchase his inventory. Rather, as he said, "people know me" and "they'll call and ask if I'm interested in something."

I can't say that I'll be returning to the Exotic Planterium, Card & Collectorama anytime soon. But, if you are a collector or just someone who enjoys truly offbeat places, then tell Dennis we said hello.

Michael

P.S. - We looked up planterium in the dictionary and, to the best of our knowledge, there is no such word. It's just an extension of Mr. Webb's style