10 Houseplant To Buy As Gifts For Someone

I genuinely love giving houseplants as gifts, especially once fall rolls around. Plants have this way of making any space feel a little brighter and cozier, don’t you think?

Picking the right houseplant early means I can dodge the madness of the holiday shopping rush and actually find something unique for people I care about.

Fall’s honestly the best time to start shopping—plants are everywhere, and they usually look their best right now. I get more options and can plan ahead, which I really appreciate.

1) Monstera Deliciosa

I can’t help but love gifting a Monstera Deliciosa in the fall. It’s often called the Swiss Cheese Plant because of those big, funky leaves with holes.

The Monstera is easy to care for, which is a relief whether someone’s a plant newbie or a total pro. I’ve noticed it thrives in bright, indirect sunlight, and honestly, it doesn’t ask for much—just water when the soil feels dry.

One thing that always gets me is how quickly these guys grow indoors. Give them a little space to climb or sprawl, and suddenly, they’re the star of the room.

I like recommending Monsteras because they look good with just about any decor. Their bold green leaves somehow work with both modern and more traditional styles.

Monstera Deliciosa also helps clean indoor air. That’s a sweet bonus if you ask me.

When I’m picking one out to give, I always check for healthy, rich green leaves. A sturdy plant just makes a better gift.

Sometimes I give Monstera cuttings instead. They root in water so easily, and it’s kind of special to watch your own plant grow from scratch.

If you’re hoping to brighten up someone’s fall, I think a Monstera Deliciosa is a fun, thoughtful choice. It’s low-maintenance, it’s striking, and it stands out—even before the holidays kick in.

2) Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Honestly, a Snake Plant is always a safe bet, especially in the fall. The upright, sword-like leaves just look so cool and add a bit of drama to any room.

Even people who forget to water their plants can manage this one. It’s sometimes called “Mother-in-Law’s Tongue,” which always makes me laugh. It’s happy in low light or bright spots, so you don’t have to overthink placement.

Snake Plants don’t need much water. I just let the soil dry out before watering again. Too much water is really the only thing that can mess it up.

The leaves are a beautiful mix of deep green and yellow. They don’t drop much, so there’s no mess—love that.

I’ve put Snake Plants on desks, nightstands, shelves—you name it. They’re fine in small spaces and can hold their own in bigger ones too.

These plants are pretty much indestructible. I’ve forgotten about mine for a week or more, and it still looked great. That’s why I think they’re perfect for busy friends.

Most people like that they don’t have any noticeable smell, and they don’t bother folks with allergies. The air just seems fresher with one around.

When I give a Snake Plant, I know I’m giving something that’ll last. It’s simple, classic, and people always seem happy to get one.

Snake Plants stay green all year, so they don’t get boring in the fall. If you want one, I’d grab it before the holiday rush—they tend to go quickly!

3) Pothos ‘Golden Queen’

I can’t get enough of the Pothos ‘Golden Queen’ and its green and yellow leaves. It’s such a cheerful plant, even on those gloomy days.

Taking care of my ‘Golden Queen’ is a breeze. I just give it medium light, but it’s fine in low light too. Water only when the top soil dries out—super simple.

This plant grows fast, so I see new leaves popping up all the time. I sometimes trim it and share cuttings with friends, which is kind of fun.

If you’re new to plants, ‘Golden Queen’ is forgiving. It’s hardy—miss a watering and it still bounces back.

The leaves help clean the air, which is nice. I also like that it’s not picky about pots, so you can get creative with containers.

Whenever I give this plant as a gift, people seem genuinely happy. It’s bright, easy, and caring for it isn’t a hassle.

It fits just about anywhere—shelf, desk, hanging basket. Really flexible, which I love.

It’s usually easy to find in stores, so I don’t stress about it being out of stock if I shop early.

The ‘Golden Queen’ just makes any space feel warmer. That’s why it’s always on my list for fall houseplant gifts.

4) Fiddle Leaf Fig

Giving a Fiddle Leaf Fig in the fall feels a little fancy, honestly. Those big, glossy leaves can brighten up any room and always catch people’s attention.

It works best in a living room or a sunny corner, but not in direct sunlight all day. Too much or too little light, and you might see some brown spots—so I try to keep it balanced.

I always tell people Fiddle Leaf Figs like a regular watering schedule. I water when the top inch of soil is dry, and I’m careful not to let it sit in water.

This plant can get pretty tall, so it’s best if there’s some space for it to grow. I like to turn the pot every week so all the leaves get a bit of sun. That helps it grow evenly.

Fiddle Leaf Figs are definitely trendy right now. You can find smaller ones for desks or bigger ones for a statement piece. I usually pick a cute pot to make the gift feel extra special.

It grows slowly, so you don’t have to worry about repotting all the time. A little plant food during spring and summer helps, but it’s not a big deal if you forget now and then.

Just a heads up—these are toxic to pets. I always mention that if I’m giving one to someone with animals or small kids.

People always seem genuinely excited to get a Fiddle Leaf Fig. It’s a nice surprise and just feels right for cozy fall decor.

5) ZZ Plant

I’m a big fan of the ZZ plant because it’s so easy but still looks amazing. If you’re not sure what to give, this is a solid choice.

It has these shiny, deep green leaves that instantly make a room feel more polished.

ZZ plants barely need water. I forget mine sometimes, and it doesn’t even care. It’s fine with low light, so you can put it almost anywhere.

I often suggest it for friends who’ve never had a houseplant before. It doesn’t mind if you skip a watering or stick it in a dark corner—pretty forgiving, honestly.

Plus, it helps clean the air a bit, which is a nice bonus. The room feels fresher with one around.

ZZ plants grow slowly, so you don’t have to repot all the time. Less hassle, more enjoyment.

When I gift one, I like to add a note saying it’s low-maintenance—just water every couple of weeks and you’re good.

One thing to remember: it’s best to keep it away from pets and kids who might nibble. I always mention that, just in case.

The glossy leaves don’t get dusty very often, but I’ll wipe them now and then to keep them looking nice.

For anyone who wants a low-maintenance, stylish plant, the ZZ is a winner. People always seem happy to get one.

6) Spider Plant

A Spider Plant is such a classic houseplant gift. The arching leaves look so lively, and it just makes a space feel fresher.

It’s perfect for beginners—super easy to care for. Spider Plants do well in bright, indirect light, but they can handle a bit of shade too. I just water when the top inch of soil dries out.

One thing I love is that Spider Plants make little “babies” that hang down. They look adorable, and I sometimes pot them up to give to friends.

Another plus: Spider Plants aren’t picky about soil or pots. As long as water can drain, they’re happy. I’ve used all sorts of simple pots, and they always do fine.

They’re known for cleaning the air, which is cool. It’s not a miracle, but it feels good to have one around.

Spider Plants fit just about anywhere—shelves, desks, windowsills. I think their unique look and easy care make them a great fall or holiday gift.

If you’re shopping for a pet owner, Spider Plants are a safe pick. They’re non-toxic to cats and dogs, so you don’t have to worry.

I love repotting the baby plants for quick gifts. They grow fast and don’t need much attention. For me, Spider Plants are the definition of a low-maintenance, attractive houseplant gift.

7) Calathea Orbifolia

I’m a big fan of giving a Calathea Orbifolia as a gift. The big, round leaves with those light and dark green stripes—honestly, they just pop on a table or shelf.

It’s such a unique plant; there’s something fresh about it in any room. I always notice people commenting on it when they see mine.

In my experience, Calathea Orbifolia likes bright, indirect light best. Too much direct sun, and those gorgeous leaves can get scorched, so I keep mine a few feet from the window.

Filtered or soft morning light works well. I’d say avoid harsh afternoon rays if you can.

For watering, I try to keep the soil moist but not soggy. I usually poke my finger into the top inch of soil; if it feels dry, that’s my cue to water.

Humidity is a must for this plant. I run a little humidifier nearby or mist the leaves if the air feels dry.

That extra humidity really helps prevent the leaves from curling or turning brown. It’s a small step, but it makes a big difference.

Another reason I love Calathea Orbifolia—it’s non-toxic. I’ve got pets, so knowing it’s safe for my cat or dog is a relief.

The plant seems to like being a bit root-bound. I don’t rush to repot it, only moving it to a bigger pot when roots start poking out of the drainage holes.

I don’t go overboard with fertilizer. Just a weak houseplant fertilizer once a month in spring and summer does the trick.

When fall rolls around, I dial up the humidity and ease up on feeding. No need to fuss too much.

Calathea Orbifolia makes a calm and gentle gift for anyone who loves pretty leaves and easy care. That round, striking foliage always gets a reaction from friends and family.

If you’re gifting this plant, including a care card is a smart move. People really appreciate simple tips about light and watering.

A little advice goes a long way in keeping their new plant happy and healthy.

8) Peace Lily

I really enjoy giving a Peace Lily as a gift in the fall. Those dark green leaves and white flowers just look so elegant.

It’s a lovely way to bring some calm and a bit of nature into any home. And you don’t need to stress about finding a super sunny spot.

The Peace Lily grows well in low light. I can put it just about anywhere and it’ll be fine.

It doesn’t need much water, either. I like that I don’t have to fuss over it every day.

Another cool thing—the Peace Lily helps keep the air fresh. Studies show it can remove some toxins from the air.

That makes any room feel a bit cleaner, which is always a bonus. It’s just a nice touch.

A lot of my friends new to houseplants have loved this one. It’s forgiving, and you don’t need a green thumb to keep it alive.

With just a weekly watering and some shade, it does well. The white blooms last a long time, too.

Those flowers really brighten up a desk or shelf, especially when most outdoor plants are fading. It’s a cheerful sight.

When I want a gift that’s both pretty and easy to care for, Peace Lily is at the top of my list. It fits into basically any style of home or office.

I usually pair it with a simple pot. That way, it’s easy to wrap up and give—and it always feels thoughtful.

9) Chinese Money Plant (Pilea Peperomioides)

The Chinese Money Plant is one of my favorites for gifting. Those bright, round leaves are just so cheerful.

People call it the “Pancake Plant” because of its shape, and honestly, it’s hard not to smile when you see it.

It’s a plant with a bit of meaning, too—supposedly a symbol of good luck and good fortune. I like that idea when giving gifts.

Plus, it’s easy to share. One plant will often grow little baby plants at the base.

Care is simple. I just set mine in bright, indirect light and let the soil dry a bit between waterings.

It doesn’t need much, which is perfect for beginners or anyone who’s busy. I appreciate that low-maintenance vibe.

The Chinese Money Plant stays compact, so it’s great for small spaces. It fits perfectly on desks, shelves, or windowsills.

Even in a tiny apartment, there’s always room for one. The leaves stay fresh and green, and if I want more, I just split off the babies and pot them up.

It’s actually kind of fun to share those with friends. And for anyone with pets, good news—this plant is non-toxic.

It’s affordable, too, so you can give a meaningful gift without spending a ton. That’s always a win in my book.

If you’re after a plant that’s cute, easy, and has a little extra meaning, the Chinese Money Plant is a fantastic pick. I’ve given it more than once, and it’s always a hit.

10) Rubber Plant (Ficus Elastica)

When I want to give a gift that really stands out, the Rubber Plant is one of my first thoughts. Those thick, glossy leaves just look so stylish.

It works for both new and experienced plant lovers. I like that it’s easy to care for—not a lot of fuss involved.

All it needs is bright, indirect light and a bit of water when the soil feels dry on top. That’s it.

If you want a plant that won’t take up much of someone’s time, this is a good bet. Plus, it can help clean the air, which is a nice bonus.

The upright shape adds a bold look without hogging too much space. I usually pick out a simple, modern pot to go with it.

That way, it’s ready to gift right away. I love how it fits well on a desk, shelf, or right by a sunny window.

You can easily control its growth—just trim the tops if needed. People seem to love how attractive and low-maintenance it is.

Those deep green leaves are always eye-catching. The Rubber Plant makes a simple but memorable gift.

Honestly, it’s a plant that sticks around. Whenever I give one, I know the person will enjoy it for years.

It’s a classic houseplant—easy to love, easy to keep.

Tips for Choosing Houseplant Gifts in Fall

When I’m picking out houseplant gifts, I try to match the plant to the season and the person’s lifestyle. It makes gift-giving feel a bit more personal.

Selecting Seasonal Favorites

In fall, I like to choose plants that bring that cozy, warm vibe indoors. Plants with deep green, red, or orange leaves—like Calathea or Aglaonema—really capture autumn.

I look for varieties that handle cooler temps and lower light, such as snake plants or ZZ plants. They just seem to thrive when the days get shorter.

Small indoor trees, like Ficus or Rubber Plant, can make a statement, too. If someone loves blooms, Kalanchoe or Cyclamen bring color when outdoor flowers are gone.

For pots, I lean toward earthy browns or rusty oranges. It just adds a little extra fall feeling to the gift.

Considerations for Recipients’ Lifestyles

I always think about how much time the person has for plant care. For busy friends, I go with low-maintenance plants like pothos or succulents.

If there are pets or kids at home, I make sure to skip any plants that could be toxic. Safety first, right?

For beginners, I stick to hardy options that don’t mind if you forget to water now and then. Jade or peace lily are great for that.

If the person has lots of sunlight, I’ll pick sun-loving varieties. For less light, Boston fern or snake plant are pretty reliable.

Benefits of Giving Houseplants as Fall Gifts

I love giving houseplants in the fall. They bring a bit of comfort during the colder months and don’t need a ton of care.

Living gifts like these brighten up any space. They’re a nice fit for people with busy schedules or anyone spending more time indoors.

Boosting Mood During Shorter Days

Shorter days can be a drag, but having a houseplant around always lifts my mood. Those fresh green leaves make any room feel more alive.

Plants just have a way of helping me de-stress. There’s actual research showing greenery calms the mind and lowers anxiety.

A plant on the desk or shelf gives me something nice to care for. It’s a simple pleasure, but it matters.

When I’m stuck inside more, a pop of green reminds me of the outdoors. Houseplants make home feel brighter and more cheerful, even when it’s gloomy outside.

Low-Maintenance Options for Busy Recipients

Not everyone wants a high-maintenance plant. I usually pick easy-care options for gifts—like snake plants, pothos, and zz plants.

They don’t need much water or sun and seem to thrive almost anywhere. That’s a relief for anyone who’s busy or new to plants.

A simple care routine means people can enjoy their plant gift without worrying. No need to water every day or be a plant expert.

Here’s a quick list of low-maintenance favorites:

• Snake Plant
• Pothos
• ZZ Plant
• Peace Lily
• Spider Plant

Giving an easy plant lets people enjoy fresh greenery without extra stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

People often ask me which houseplants make the best gifts, especially before the holidays. Whether it’s for low light, allergies, or just something pretty, here are my go-to answers.

What are some great low light plants perfect for a fall gift?

I’d say Snake Plant (Sansevieria) or a ZZ Plant. They both handle low light and need almost no attention.

They’re tough and look good all year round.

Which houseplant trees make for thoughtful presents before the holidays?

Fiddle Leaf Fig and Monstera Deliciosa are my favorites. They add height and style to any space.

Both are striking gifts that do well indoors.

Can you recommend any indoor plants that thrive without much sunlight?

ZZ Plant and Snake Plant top the list. They’re champs in low light.

Perfect for offices, bedrooms, or anywhere that doesn’t get much sun.

Could you suggest vining plants suitable for low light conditions as gifts?

Pothos ‘Golden Queen’ is a winner. I’m also a fan of regular Pothos.

Their trailing vines look lovely, and they don’t need much sun to be happy.

What are the top houseplants to consider for gifting this season?

Monstera Deliciosa, Snake Plant, Pothos ‘Golden Queen’, Fiddle Leaf Fig, and ZZ Plant are my top picks.

They’re attractive and easy to care for—just what you want in a gift.

Are there any plants to avoid gifting to people with allergies?

I tend to steer clear of flowering plants, especially those with a lot of pollen. Peace Lilies and certain other blooming houseplants might be a bit much for folks with allergies.

Non-flowering picks like the Snake Plant or ZZ Plant are generally safer bets. Honestly, if you’re not sure, those are usually a good call.

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