The best festive houseplants for Christmas revealed
The Christmas tree might be the star of the home, but many festive houseplants bring a touch of colour when little else is flowering.
"Houseplants make excellent Christmas gifts, bringing a touch of nature and beauty into any home. Research shows that plants improve air quality, removing toxins and other elements found in furnishings, paints, detergents and cosmetics around the home," says a spokesperson from British Garden Centres.
"They also greatly benefit health by reducing blood pressure, aiding breathing problems and mood, increasing attention span and improving productivity."
From traditional red poinsettias to elegant orchids, spread cheer long into the new year with a number of Christmas plants. Take a look at the top 12 below, plus care advice and where to buy them:
Poinsettia
Poinsettias are among the most popular festive houseplants. Originating from Mexico, they bring a splash of colour to our winter homes and can thrive well beyond the Christmas period.
"While often associated with the festive season, Poinsettias can continue to thrive long after Christmas if given proper care, meaning a living gift can be cherished for time to come," says the team at British Garden Centres.
Christmas cactus
The Christmas cactus is another suitably festive choice. It's available in an array of eye-catching hues, from bright pink and purple to red and white.
"With its vibrant and festive blooms that appear in time for the big day, it adds a pop of colour to any room and thrives in the darker days. This easy-to-care-for plant loves indirect light and requires minimal watering, making it an ideal gift for anyone."
Amaryllis
An amaryllis also looks incredibly festive, especially if you choose one in a jolly red shade.
Also known as hippeastrum, they are typically planted from October to January, with blooms appearing from winter through to spring.
Aloe vera
Aloe veras are popular ornamental plants with luscious green leaves.
"This amazing plant can eliminate formaldehyde and benzene — two harmful chemicals that are often found in common household cleaning products," the experts explain.
Dracena
If you're looking for a low-maintenance plant, look no further than a dracena. It's a great option for novice gardeners.
"Its impressive resilience and durability make it an excellent choice to brighten up any dimly lit corner this winter with its attractive variegated leaves. Due to its low-maintenance nature, it is an ideal plant for novice gardeners as it is easy to grow indoors."
Ferns
Fern plants are known for their love of moisture and shade, while also symbolising new life and beginnings.
"Ferns often have unique and attractive foliage, with intricate fronds and are available in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to choose a type that suits the recipient's home this Christmas," says the team.
"They are often associated with symbolic meanings, such as sincerity, magic, and fascination, making them an ideal and thoughtful gift for a loved one."
Pilea
Pilea, or as it's more commonly known – the Chinese money plant – is a popular choice all year round, making it a great gift idea. With its glossy green paddle-shaped leaves, it is well-suited to dry conditions and can thrive in low-light areas, which is particularly handy over the winter months.
It's relatively fast-growing too, allowing those who are new to gardening to feel a real sense of accomplishment as it starts to flourish.
Kalanchoe
Available in various vibrant colours, the Kalanchoe plant is a fun and colourful addition to any room or space. Despite their beauty, they are relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for. Make sure to place it in bright, indirect light, such as a windowsill.
Bromeliad
A bromeliad can have a similar effect at brightening a room, with it looking incredible all year round.
"These plants boast a vibrant and eye-catching palette with showy spikes that can instantly uplift your mood. And once they bloom, you can enjoy their beauty with minimal care, requiring only occasional watering," says the team.
Orchid
Orchids are a lovely gift idea all year round, whether you're looking for the perfect housewarming present or something to give someone for their birthday or a special occasion.
"The stunning blooms often last several weeks or even months which makes them the ideal gift that provides beauty and enjoyment over Christmas and long beyond."
Peace lilies
Peace lilies are always well received as gifts thanks to their elegant white bracts and glossy green leaves.
According to the experts at British Garden Centres, "these plants absorb harmful toxins from the air, effectively purifying it, and creating a refreshing and healthy environment to live in. Additionally, the calming qualities of peace lilies make them an ideal choice to reduce stress and promote relaxation."
Cyclamen
The cyclamen is a popular houseplant that provides colour when little else is flowering, particularly in late winter or early spring.
Place them in a cool location with bright, indirect sunlight. With the right care, they should last up to three months.
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