With Christmas on the horizon, get a head start with your shopping and let us inspire you with the present of plants.
No matter the person, there’s a house plant for all. Not only do they brighten up interiors, they give the recipient something to tend to and look after – making for a rewarding gift that keeps on giving. Some plants are air-purifying and of course, they come in a multitude of sizes, shapes and shades of green so you can really tailor your choice to pick something personal. Here’s our pick of the best, because sometimes chocolate and socks just won’t cut it.
1. Peace Lily
Stunning in looks and serene in mood, the Peace Lily ticks all the boxes when it comes to gifts. You’d be forgiven for thinking it may be difficult to care for, judging by its beautiful appearance, however it is very easy to care for, simply requiring the occasional wiping of its leaves to remove dust. It is a fantastic air purifier, removing toxins such as formaldehyde, ammonia and carbon monoxide, and according to the Chinese art of feng shui, it can also cleanse the energy of a room. Perhaps you could gift this to someone who has recently moved into a new home for that reason!
2. Snake Plant
Virtually unkillable – gift this plant to the green-fingered newbie. It’s an ideal starter plant, being very low-maintenance and easy to care for. It can go weeks without being watered – not that we’d recommend that of course – and is very forgiving of neglect. According to NASA, the Snake Plant is one of the best plants for improving air quality, removing toxins such as formaldehyde, ammonia and carbon monoxide from the air – making it ideal for the recipient to keep in their bedroom or at their desk as an office plant.
3. Kentia Palm
The Kentia Palm is a popular choice – loved by people and pets alike – so safe to gift to someone who has cats or dogs in their home. Due to his height, he needs a bit of space, but besides from that, this plant is the perfect all-rounder being easy to look after and purifying the air. Not to mention, there is a certain exotic vibe to his appearance and will make a vibrant addition to any home. Queen Victoria loved these plants so much that she even insisted they were placed around her coffin when she died. If they’re good enough for royalty, then they’re good enough to gift!
4. A cacti trio
Why gift one cactus, when you can gift three? This trio of plants, all from the Cactacae family, are very easy to look after as they all store water – in other words, they can survive should the recipient forget to give them a drink. The set of three is great for anyone looking to build up a plant collection and each cactus differs ever so slightly, offering different colours and sizes for added interest. Due to their compact sizing, space isn’t an issue either as they will easily slot into any abode – flat or house – without occupying too much space.
5. White Orchid
The White Orchid doesn’t just make for a pretty face, it is also said to enhance career success and bring family luck, as well as bringing harmony to a household, filling the space with calm and clarity. Talk about a special gift! Whilst orchids require a little more care and attention, they are easy to maintain once you learn their routine. And we’d argue they are more than worth it for the benefits they could bring.