Poinsettias are a classic holiday favorite, but there are plenty of other festive plants to shake things up a bit. From vibrant blooms to aromatic evergreens, here are nine standout options that are just as seasonally appropriate and ready to make a striking statement.
Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi)
With bright, cheerful blooms in shades of red, pink, or white, the Christmas cactus is a popular holiday plant. Its arching stems produce cascading flowers that add a touch of the unexpected. Christmas cacti thrive in bright, indirect light and appreciate a bit of humidity—perfect for a windowsill or a sunny spot in the living room. For a polished look, consider placing your Christmas cactus in a Jay Scotts Valencia planter. Its classic, curved shape works perfectly with the cactus’s arching stems and vibrant blooms, creating an elegant display that’s perfect for holiday décor.
Frosty Fern (Selaginella kraussiana)
With its frosty-white tipped fronds, the frosty fern lives up to its name, adding a snowy, wintry vibe to any holiday arrangement. This plant thrives in cool, moist conditions, so it does well in a humid spot like a bathroom. Although festive in its own right, consider pairing your frosty fern with an American Essence Memphis planter in charcoal metallic. The sleek, rounded shape and deep hue of the planter will accentuate the fern’s shimmering white tips and create a dramatic contrast.
Amaryllis (Hippeastrum)
If you’re after bold and dramatic, amaryllis is your go-to. The huge, trumpet-shaped blooms in deep red, crisp white, or playful striped varieties can instantly become the focal point of any holiday setup. These stunning flowers need bright light to flourish and only require watering when the soil feels dry. For a striking holiday display, group several amaryllis together or surround them with sprigs of fresh pine and seasonal accents like berries or ribbon. You can also place individual blooms on a mantel or in a festive tablescape for an elegant touch for holiday gatherings.
Wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens)
Wintergreen offers both beauty and scent, with its glossy green leaves and cheerful red berries that last through the coldest months. It prefers partial shade and slightly acidic soil, making it a great choice for shaded entryways or indoor tabletops. To bring out the rich, deep colors, plant wintergreen in an Ecopots Amsterdam planter. The natural finish and understated design of the Amsterdam complement the plant, creating a harmonious, rustic look. Add a moss top dressing or arrange it with pinecones and fairy lights for a festive holiday accent. You can also style it on a windowsill alongside candles or other seasonal décor for a cozy, inviting display.
Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla)
Who says you need a full-size Christmas tree to bring the holiday spirit indoors? The Norfolk Island pine is a miniature evergreen that looks adorable decked out in tiny ornaments or twinkling lights. It does best in bright, indirect light and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry. The Jay Scotts Montroy planter in matte white or classic holiday red makes the perfect base for these festive plants, seamlessly blending with your décor while keeping things modern and sophisticated.
Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum)
With vibrant, butterfly-like blooms in shades of red, white, and pink, cyclamen is a cheerful way to brighten up your holiday décor. Its marbled leaves add visual interest even when it’s not in bloom. Cyclamen prefers cool temperatures and bright, indirect light, making it perfect for indoor spaces. For an elegant presentation, skip the typical holiday accents and display cyclamen alongside natural elements like smooth stones or wood slices. You could also position it near a frosted window to highlight its delicate flowers, creating a serene and joyful atmosphere.
Paperwhite Narcissus (Narcissus papyraceus)
For a touch of fragrant elegance, you can’t go wrong with paperwhite narcissus. These delicate white flowers bloom indoors during the winter and fill your home with a lovely, sweet fragrance. They prefer a sunny windowsill and need just a little water to stay happy. To showcase your paperwhites, consider planting them in a Jay Scotts Tupelo planter. The sleek, elongated shape and contemporary design create a chic and understated display, while the variety of available finishes, like metallic gold or metallic silver, add a festive feel to your holiday décor.
Anthurium (Anthurium spp.)
For a tropical holiday twist, anthurium’s glossy red flowers (technically bracts) add a bold pop of color. This low-maintenance plant thrives in bright, indirect light and only needs occasional watering when the soil feels dry. Pair your anthurium with a Jay Scotts cylinder planter to accentuate its striking blooms. The refined design of this planter enhances the plant’s vibrant colors, creating a sophisticated and stylish display for your home this holiday season.
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
Rosemary plants shaped like little Christmas trees are a festive and practical choice. The aromatic, pine-like scent enhances the holiday atmosphere, and you can snip fresh sprigs to use in seasonal dishes. Rosemary loves bright light and well-drained soil, making it ideal for a kitchen counter or windowsill. For a charming holiday display, decorate your rosemary plant with small ornaments or a simple ribbon. You can also arrange it alongside other herbs, a bowl of citrus fruits, or seasonal décor to create a delightful and fragrant arrangement.
No matter which of these festive plants you choose, the right planter can make all the difference in creating an eye-catching display. Whether your style is modern or more traditional, there are plenty of planters to perfectly complement your holiday décor. So this year, think beyond poinsettias and let these unique plants—and carefully chosen planters—bring fresh holiday cheer to your home.
Leave a Reply