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According to Emma Hondzinski, Bloomscape’s product specialist, not all holiday plants are the most obvious choices. “The snake plant is one of the hardiest houseplants around, making it our go-to recommendation for winter foliage,” she shares. “But beyond being hardy, the snake plant actually prefers the type of dry, hot air produced by furnaces and fireplaces. This is because snake plants are native to dry climates and need very little moisture to survive— perfect to pair with indoor holiday activities!”
Think of anthurium as a modern take on the classic Christmas pop of color. “This holiday-colored beauty will enjoy a warm and bright spot in your home and a bit of extra humidity,” Hondzinski explains. “These flowers, which are actually a modified leaf called a bract, surround a spike of tiny flowers and are one of the main appealing aspects of this plant. This means that dazzling color can last in your home for months.” With a charming, heart-shaped silhouette, the anthurium reminds us of what Christmas is all about.
Though ZZ plants might be in your home year-round, Hondzinski refers to them as “a stately winter winner”—and for good reason. “With its graceful layered leaves, the hardy ZZ plant is a statement plant that can reach up to two-and-a-half feet tall,” she says. “This drought-tolerant plant is tough, beautiful, and nearly indestructible—in case that’s a concern for new plant parents.”
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Norfolk Island Pine Plants
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Norfolk Island Pine Plants
Contrary to popular belief, Douglas fir isn’t the only pine that deserves a spot in your home. “The Norfolk Island pine is a tropical evergreen that hates the bitter cold, but its shape gives it Charlie Brown Christmas vibes,” say the Sill’s Erin Marino. “And because it’s not a true pine, it’s easy to grow year-round inside as a houseplant.”
Not only is the Norfolk Island pine one of Marino’s favorites, but the Sill will be welcoming this plant to its offering this holiday season.
Heading to a bunch of holiday hangouts this year? Consider swapping out your obligatory bottle of wine or candle gift for some lively flora. “The elegant stems and chic white blooms of the phalaenopsis orchid make any space feel more festive,” Marino shares. “A great option for a holiday host gift!”
While the holidays are a great time to express gratitude, they’re also an excellent manifesting opportunity. So what better way to kick off the good vibes than with a money tree? “Said to bring good luck and fortune, the money tree will help you celebrate the holidays and the end of the year with intention,” Marino shares.
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Keep the succulent trend alive through the cold winter chills with a vibrant, easy-to-care-for Christmas cactus. “It’s a low-maintenance plant that blooms during the holiday season, giving you an extra pop of color during the holiday season,” says Hilton Carter, co-owner of Green Neighbor Shop.
Snow-flocked forest trees have nothing on the marble queen pothos. “With its beautiful white and green variegated leaves, it’s a great hanging plant to have indoors for the holidays because it’ll mimic fresh snowfall on the greenery outdoors,” Carter shares.
“Forget the poinsettias,” Carter says. “The Triostar has the perfect pop of holiday color and will provide that look far past the holiday season.” Since this colorful pick isn’t over-the-top festive, you can proudly display it in your home year-round.
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Fragrant Holiday Lavender Tree
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Fragrant Holiday Lavender Tree
Now 40% Off
For a holiday plant that appeals to all of the senses, give a lavender tree a try. “This perennial not only adds natural beauty to your space but can be enjoyed year after year if cared for properly,” shares Alfred Palomares, vice president of merchandising and resident plant dad for 1-800-Flowers.com. “Its leaves can also be used to add flavor and aroma to dishes.”
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Spectacular Succulent Tree
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Spectacular Succulent Tree
As the saying goes, big things often come in small packages—especially once the holidays roll around. “For busy plant parents looking to add trending greenery to their holiday aesthetic, succulents are the perfect option, as they require minimal maintenance,” Palomares says. While a cluster of succulents will breathe life into the holiday rush, a strategic arrangement can bring the Christmas spirit front and center.
Strike that happy medium between festive and forever with a baby rubber plant, which 1-800-Flowers deemed 2022’s plant of the year. “This lush houseplant has saucer-shaped foliage, is easy-to-care-for, and makes a great addition to any tabletop or desktop during the holidays and beyond,” Palomares says.
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Rosemary is the gift that keeps on giving year-round, but it will come in especially handy come Christmas. The fragrant foliage will add a great aroma to your holiday home, plus its sprigs can be added to your go-to recipes. Also, did you ever realize its thin needles resemble a Christmas tree? Consider us sold!
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Green Promise Farms Blue Star Juniper
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Green Promise Farms Blue Star Juniper
Speaking of savory species, juniper is a no-brainer. This pick will smell just as good as it looks, thanks to its earthy aroma. Plus, the bluish green needles feel downright festive, making this a wonderful Christmas tree alternative.
These delicate flowers are the color of snow, but we’re sure they’ll add warmth to your holiday decor. And, since they bloom best from fall to spring, Paperwhites are perfect for the cozy season ahead.
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This one’s obvious, right? Centuries ago, the Celtic Druids thought Mistletoe was a sign of vivacity and fertility since it thrived after those harsh winters. Now, we hang bunches of this leafy greens above our doorway, hoping for a kiss from someone special. Pucker up!
A pretty poinsettia is a Christmas classic, adding a touch of red and green to your holiday decor. Fun fact: This plant's angular silhouette is said to represent the Star of Bethlehem, making it a holiday must-have.
If you’re willing to shop for the sake of the pun, the only thing missing is a partridge. Jokes aside, the pear tree is known to represent sustenance, abundance, and longevity—which is essentially what Christmas is all about.
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Because you can’t deck the halls without boughs of you-know-what. Whether you hang up a wreath or add a few potted plants, this species is bound to pack on the seasonal spirit.
If you love the look of poinsettias but want to try something new, the Amaryllis is a popular seasonal bulb that can be grown in pebbles, rocks, and glass chips.
Kelsey Mulvey is a freelance lifestyle journalist, who covers shopping and deals for Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, and ELLE Decor, among others. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix, and nachos.
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