With the holiday season upon us, many of us are looking for thoughtful, unique gifts to share with loved ones. Instead of the usual candles or scarves, why not give a gift that grows? Plants make for memorable, lasting presents that bring life and beauty into any space. Whether your recipient is an experienced plant parent or a beginner, there’s a plant perfect for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best plants to gift this holiday season that are sure to delight and thrive long after the festivities are over.
Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima)
No list of holiday plants would be complete without the iconic poinsettia. Known for its vibrant red and green foliage, this classic plant is synonymous with Christmas cheer.
- Why it makes a great gift: Poinsettias are easy to care for and instantly add a festive touch to any home. With proper care, they can last well beyond the holiday season.
- Care tips: Keep poinsettias in bright, indirect light and water when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid placing them near drafts or heaters to prevent leaf drop.
Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera spp.)
The Christmas cactus is a beloved holiday plant that blooms with colorful, tubular flowers in shades of red, pink, white, and yellow. It’s a symbol of resilience, blooming during the darkest days of winter.
- Why it makes a great gift: This low-maintenance plant thrives with minimal care and rewards owners with stunning blooms each holiday season. Plus, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned plant lovers.
- Care tips: Place in bright, indirect light and water only when the top inch of soil is dry. Christmas cacti prefer cooler temperatures and can tolerate low humidity, making them ideal for indoor winter conditions.
Amaryllis (Hippeastrum spp.)
For a dramatic and show-stopping gift, the amaryllis is a stunning choice. This plant produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers in vibrant shades of red, pink, white, and even striped patterns.
- Why it makes a great gift: The amaryllis bulb is easy to grow and often comes in pre-packaged kits, making it a fun and interactive gift. The beautiful, bold flowers are a sight to behold and will bring holiday joy to any room.
- Care tips: Place in a sunny spot and water when the soil feels dry. With proper care, the amaryllis can bloom again each year, making it a gift that keeps giving.
Orchid (Phalaenopsis spp.)
Orchids are an elegant, sophisticated gift that can brighten up any space with their exotic blooms. Phalaenopsis orchids, often known as moth orchids, are especially popular for their long-lasting flowers and relative ease of care.
- Why it makes a great gift: Orchids symbolize beauty and strength, and their long bloom period makes them a gift that will be appreciated for months. They’re also available in a variety of colors, making it easy to personalize the gift.
- Care tips: Orchids prefer bright, indirect light and should be watered sparingly—typically once a week—allowing the potting medium to dry out slightly between waterings.
Succulents
Succulents are trendy, easy-to-care-for plants that come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They’re perfect for anyone who wants to bring a little greenery into their home without too much maintenance.
- Why it makes a great gift: Succulents are low-maintenance, making them perfect for busy individuals or beginners. Their unique shapes and compact sizes make them great for small spaces, and they look beautiful in decorative pots or terrariums.
- Care tips: Succulents need bright, indirect light and should be watered sparingly. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent overwatering.
Herb Plants
For the foodies and home chefs in your life, potted herb plants like rosemary, thyme, or basil make thoughtful, practical gifts. Not only do they add a fresh, aromatic touch to the kitchen, but they can also be used in cooking throughout the year.
- Why it makes a great gift: Herb plants are both functional and beautiful. They’re ideal for windowsills and provide fresh ingredients for culinary experiments long after the holidays have ended.
- Care tips: Most herbs need bright, direct light, so place them on a sunny windowsill. Water when the soil feels dry, and trim the leaves regularly to encourage new growth.
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)
Peace lilies are popular for their striking white blooms and air-purifying qualities. They’re an elegant addition to any home and symbolize peace, making them a meaningful gift during the holiday season.
- Why it makes a great gift: Peace lilies are relatively low-maintenance and thrive in low to medium light, making them suitable for homes with limited sunlight. They’re also known for their ability to remove toxins from the air, contributing to a healthier living environment.
- Care tips: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Peace lilies prefer low to medium light and should be kept away from direct sunlight.
Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla)
A living alternative to the traditional Christmas tree, the Norfolk Island pine is a small, potted tree with soft, feathery branches. It can be decorated with small ornaments for the holidays and then enjoyed year-round.
- Why it makes a great gift: This festive, miniature tree brings holiday charm into small spaces and continues to grow and beautify the home long after the holidays are over. It’s perfect for apartment dwellers or those who want a green, eco-friendly alternative to a cut Christmas tree.
- Care tips: Place in bright, indirect light and keep the soil slightly moist. Norfolk Island pines thrive in cooler indoor temperatures, between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C).
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
If you’re looking for a practically indestructible plant to gift, the ZZ plant is a fantastic option. Its glossy, dark green leaves and upright growth make it a stylish addition to any home, even in low-light conditions.
- Why it makes a great gift: ZZ plants are incredibly low-maintenance and can tolerate neglect, making them ideal for busy individuals or those with less experience caring for plants. They also have air-purifying properties, which add to their appeal.
- Care tips: ZZ plants thrive in low to bright, indirect light and require minimal watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos, also known as Devil's Ivy, is one of the most popular and easy-to-care-for houseplants, making it a wonderful gift for both beginners and experienced plant lovers. With its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves that come in various shades of green, yellow, or variegated patterns, Pothos can thrive in a variety of environments.
- Why it makes a great gift: Pothos is incredibly versatile, able to tolerate low light and irregular watering. Its trailing nature makes it great for hanging baskets, shelves, or trained to climb a trellis. It’s also a great air purifier, helping to remove toxins from the air.
- Care tips: Pothos prefers bright, indirect light but can also adapt to low-light conditions. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and avoid letting the plant sit in water. It’s a resilient plant that can grow in water as well, making it ideal for any indoor setting.
Giving the gift of a plant this holiday season is a thoughtful and lasting way to share joy, beauty, and a little slice of nature. From classic poinsettias and Christmas cacti to versatile succulents and elegant orchids, there’s a plant to suit every personality and space. Not only do plants enhance the home, but they also symbolize growth and care—making them the perfect gift for the season of giving.
Happy gifting, and may your holidays be filled with greenery and joy!
