No matter the season, houseplants serve as lovely gifts for friends and loved ones. While cut flowers fade, houseplants continue to grow and can last years if properly cared for. Studies even show being around nature can help us live a longer, happier life. Houseplants filter the air we breathe, and add a touch of warmth to a home. Give a gift which brings the outdoors inside all year long with our top ten houseplant favorites.
Cactus
The cactus is one of the easiest plants to care for. It typically requires warmer temperatures and adequate sunlight, but you can forget to water it for weeks on end and it won't flinch. If you opt for a Christmas Cactus, set it outside over the summer and bring it inside come fall.
Boston Fern
This plant is a favorite among plant lovers. Boston ferns grow in low light, filter toxins from the air, and offer unique foliage. They also perform double duty, adding beauty to porches, decks and patios in the summer. To keep the foliage bright and green, water frequently so the soil stays moist. In return, the Boston fern will provide moisture to an otherwise dry home in wintertime.
English Ivy
Predominantly used outdoors as a ground cover, English ivy is a tough, adaptable plant. Wrap it around a support such as a wire statue, and you will have an instant topiary. If you want to dispose of this houseplant, do so with care because it is considered to be invasive in some areas and will re-root and grow again.
Philodendron
The heart-shaped leaves are a great "spiller" for an indoor container. The green foliage will grow in low-light areas, requires little care, and will provide numerous cuttings for new plants. The Philodendron earns a high spot on our gift-giving list.
Succulents
Much like cacti, succulents require little watering and will thrive if left on a warm windowsill. The succulent is a nice choice because of its variety, versatility, and petite stature. It's perfect for those with small spaces. Be creative and plant them in tea cups, shot glasses or any other unique container with significance to your gift recipient. We recommend using a soil specifically for succulents.
Norfolk Pine
The Norfolk pine is a great addition to any home, especially around the holiday season. Its soft branches require adequate sunlight to thrive indoors. While not technically a true pine, this plant is happy to be a part of any season. Decorate it for Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day, Easter and other occasions.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a must-have in most kitchens. Its sappy liquid provides relief to a burn and softens chapped hands. An Aloe Vera plant is the perfect plant for a beginner, because the branches shrivel to tell you it needs water.
Frosted Fern
The Frosted Fern is actually more of a moss than a fern. Either way, this plant's unique "frosted" tips have deemed it worthy of a spot on our list. It's a perfect "filler" and can be mixed with other plants for texture and interest.
Peace Lily
The Peace Lily is an amazing houseplant and one of the few which provides a flower. The peace lily can remove many air pollutants from your home and will be fine in medium to low sunlight. They can be touchy with moisture requirements. A well-drained soil is recommended.
Dwarf Fruit Trees
Looking for a larger indoor plant for a sun porch or maybe something a bit more 'useful'? Many fruit trees such as oranges, limes, and Meyer lemons can be grown indoors. They can be a little picky and may shed some leaves when relocated, but gentle care and some patience will help these trees thrive. We do not recommend these trees around cats as the leaves can be poisonous.
Plants can help soothe the spirit and improve health and attitude. Consider giving a plant as a gift to someone who is homebound, in a nursing home or yearning for spring. Did we miss a plant you feel should be on our list?
