Whether you need a gift for a host, a housewarming, to mark a celebration, holiday, or milestone, or you just want to show someone important how much you value them, houseplants make the perfect gift. Houseplants have different care needs, so there is a lot to consider regarding the place they’ll call home and the ability and dedication of the recipient. If you’re shopping for someone new to the plant hobby or a seasoned pro, here is how to find the best houseplants to give as gifts.
Pilea
The Pilea peperomioides is a fast-growing plant that has earned the nickname friendship plant because it grows so quickly and is so easy to propagate; people often end up with more plants than they know what to do with and give them away to friends. The friendship plant moniker makes this an excellent gift and speaks to how easy Pilea plants are to grow. The peperomioides are one species in this genus, and while they often look drastically different, all Pilea plants have unique leaves that stand out and give this plant a stunning appearance. Another perk of this easy-care plant is that it is pet-friendly.
Sansevieria
Sansevierias are often known as snake plants and thrive with a small degree of neglect. These plants like to completely dry out between watering sessions, so they are better suited to forgetful or busy plant parents. Plan to water every 10 to 14 days during the spring and summer. Dormant plants have reduced water needs and only require water every 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the size of the plant and the environment it calls home. Perhaps the best trait of Sanseveria houseplants is their adaptability. Expect the best results when grown in bright, indirect sunlight, but these low-maintenance plants can live in medium or low light.
Kalanchoe
The thick, fleshy leaves and upright growth habit of the Kalanchoe make this a charming houseplant. Kalanchoes are low-maintenance succulents, so find a sunny spot, let the potting mix dry before watering it, and enjoy the tiny flowers. This plant is so easy to grow that it is often found in holiday-themed planters in the plant department of most grocery stores.
Pothos
The reaching stems of Pothos plants gently hang down or can be trained to climb a trellis, creating a leafy wall of greenery. Pothos houseplants are not as low-maintenance as Snake Plants, but they are by no means needy. Give them medium to bright, indirect sunlight, although variegated varieties need brighter sunlight. A Jade Pothos with solid green leaves is better suited to medium light.
Peace Lily
The Peace Lily is a classic gift. This plant is often appreciated for its stunning blooms, but it also has glossy green foliage that is dense and lush. Peace Lilies are still lovely, even when they aren’t blooming. All plants indicate when they are too dry and need water, but some are subtle. The Peace Lily is dramatic when it is past due for a drink. The leaves will wilt, and the stems will droop, but give it some water, and it will bounce back in a few hours. Allowing the plant to droop for an extended time can be trouble, but wilted foliage is not necessarily the end for a Peace Lily.
Monstera deliciosa
The large, split leaves of the Monstera deliciosa set a relaxing, tropical tone. These leafy plants are available in most grocery and big box stores, making them easy to locate. If you start with a small plant, these fast-growers can quickly become a full-fledged floor plant. The Monstera deliciosa is the most well-known Monstera, but these plants come in all shapes and sizes. Consider the vining Monstera adansonii for the same tropical vibe but with dangling stems. Monsteras are showy and stylish, but they require increased humidity. These leafy plants can sometimes handle average humidity, but a naturally damp area or near a humidifier is the best choice.