My rare plants sell for five figures. The business helps me support my extended family, but I work about 100 hours a week.

Harry Luu has sold rare plants for $16,000 and $26,000. a piece.

Courtesy of Harry Luu

• Harry Luu started growing rare plants as a hobby during grad school.
• During COVID, he opened a business and eventually left academia to pursue it.
• He works about 100 hours a week, including in greenhouses at his home, he says.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Harry Luu, owner of PlantZaddyTherapy. It has been edited for length and clarity.

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