5 Houseplants That Can Replace a Christmas Tree

I love decorating for the holidays, but honestly, sometimes dragging in a full Christmas tree just feels like too much.

Maybe I’m short on space, or just not in the mood for all the cleanup.

You can create a warm holiday atmosphere with houseplants that look just as beautiful when decorated.

Using houseplants instead of a tree means I get to enjoy greenery that sticks around long after the holidays.

There’s something fresh and personal about it, you know? Plus, it lets me decorate in a style that actually fits my space and vibe.

1) Fiddle Leaf Fig

I really love using a Fiddle Leaf Fig as a holiday centerpiece. Its tall height and those big, broad leaves just make it pop in any space.

The large, glossy leaves give me plenty of room for small ornaments or lightweight decorations. I don’t feel like I need to cover every inch for it to look festive.

It’s also just a good-looking plant all year. After the holidays, I just pull off the decorations and it still looks great in my living room.

This plant needs bright, indirect light to stay happy, so I keep mine near a window but not right in the sun.

I only water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. That seems to keep it healthy and the leaves nice and green.

Swapping in a Fiddle Leaf Fig instead of a tree really saves space, but still gives me that tall, festive look I want. It’s both practical and cheerful.

2) Norfolk Island Pine

The Norfolk Island Pine is probably the closest thing to a mini Christmas tree. Its branches grow in neat layers, which is perfect for stringing up lights or hanging little ornaments.

This plant likes bright, indirect light best. I keep mine by a sunny window, but out of the way of harsh sun so the needles don’t get crispy.

I water it when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can harm the roots, so I always check that the pot drains well.

The Norfolk Island Pine will grow taller over time, but when it’s young, it’s compact enough for my small space. I like that I don’t have to toss it out after the holidays.

Even after December, it adds a fresh, green touch to my place. It’s festive now, and just plain nice the rest of the year.

3) Kentia Palm

A Kentia Palm makes a great holiday centerpiece with its tall, graceful fronds. It feels festive, but it’s not overwhelming or fussy.

The shape leaves me plenty of space to hang light decorations without worrying about bending or snapping anything.

It grows slowly, so I don’t have to stress about it taking over the room. Plus, it stays green all year, which is a win for me.

Caring for it is pretty easy since it tolerates lower light and doesn’t need constant watering. That’s a relief during the busy holiday rush.

When I decorate mine, I stick with light ornaments and string lights so the fronds don’t sag. Even with simple touches, its height makes it stand out.

The Kentia Palm works year-round, not just in December. After the holidays, I just move it to a corner and let it do its thing.

4) Rubber Plant

I’m a fan of the Rubber Plant as a holiday centerpiece because those tall, glossy leaves really make a statement. Its upright shape is just begging for a few lights or some ornaments.

It’s also super easy to care for. I just keep it in bright, indirect light and water it when the top soil dries out. No fuss, which I appreciate.

The dark green leaves give a bold, festive look even without pine needles. A couple of ribbons or string lights, and it totally feels seasonal.

After the holidays, I just strip off the decorations and keep enjoying it. It adds height and color to my space year-round without being bulky.

5) Bird of Paradise

A Bird of Paradise is one of my favorite holiday centerpieces. Its tall leaves stand upright and give off a bold, tree-like vibe—no pine needles required.

The large, glossy leaves brighten up any room. I think it looks even better when I add a few simple lights or ornaments.

Unlike a cut tree, this plant keeps growing every year. I like knowing it’ll stick around long after the holidays are gone.

It likes bright, indirect light and needs regular watering, but I let the soil dry out a bit between waterings. That seems to keep it happy.

If I’m going for a modern holiday look, this plant is my go-to. It’s festive, but also fits right in with my place the rest of the year.

Benefits of Using Houseplants as Christmas Tree Alternatives

I really like using houseplants during the holidays. They save space, last longer than a cut tree, and reduce waste. Plus, they’re perfect for small homes or apartments and still give me that festive feeling.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Choices

When I use a houseplant instead of a cut tree, I’m not tossing anything out after just a few weeks. A live plant keeps growing year after year, which feels like a smarter, more sustainable choice.

Cleanup is easier too—no dried needles or big branches to deal with. That’s always a relief.

Cutting down on the demand for mass-produced trees feels good. Those often come with fertilizers and pesticides that aren’t great for the environment. Reusing a plant I already own just seems better.

Even if I buy a new houseplant for the holidays, I know it won’t end up in the trash. Instead, it just becomes another part of my home.

Space-Saving Advantages

I don’t always have room for a full-sized Christmas tree, so a houseplant fits better. Plants like a fiddle leaf fig or rubber plant grow tall, but don’t hog all the floor space.

That makes them perfect for apartments or smaller living rooms. I can still hang up lights or ornaments without rearranging my whole place.

A smaller plant can sit on a table or shelf, which gives me flexibility to create a festive spot without moving furniture.

And if I need more space for guests, I just pick up the plant and move it. No big deal.

Low Maintenance and Longevity

Cut trees dry out fast and need constant attention. My houseplants only need simple care—water once a week and a spot with enough light. That saves me a lot of time.

A houseplant sticks around all year, not just for a few weeks. I get to enjoy it long after the decorations are packed away.

Some plants, like snake plants or zz plants, are especially easy. They don’t need much water and can handle low light, so I never have to stress.

By picking a plant that keeps growing, I get a holiday centerpiece that also improves my air quality and brings some green into my home, year-round.

Creative Decorating Ideas for Festive Houseplants

I like to keep my holiday plants simple, but still fun. The right mix of ornaments, lights, and seasonal accents can make any houseplant feel special—without going overboard.

Choosing Ornaments and Lights

I stick with lightweight ornaments so the branches don’t droop or snap. Mini baubles, felt shapes, or little wooden pieces are my go-to. Glass is a no for me—too heavy and risky.

For lights, I use battery-powered fairy lights. They’re safer for plants and don’t require an outlet. Warm white bulbs give that cozy glow, but sometimes I go for colored ones if I’m feeling playful.

I try to balance the decorations. I spread them out so nothing looks crowded. Tiny plants need just a few, while bigger ones can handle more.

Here’s a quick cheat sheet I follow:

Plant Size	Ornament Size	Light Type
Small	Mini (1–2 in)	Fairy lights
Medium	Small (2–3 in)	Fairy or micro LED
Large	Medium (3–4 in)	LED string lights

Incorporating Themed Accessories

I like to add seasonal accents around the base of the plant. A small tree skirt, a woven basket, or a festive pot cover makes everything look finished.

Sometimes I tuck in mini figurines—reindeer, snowmen, or nutcrackers. They add a bit of personality without taking up space.

Ribbons or bows tied loosely around the pot or a branch are a cheap, easy way to change up the color theme.

For a natural look, I’ll place pinecones, cinnamon sticks, or sprigs of holly nearby. They add texture and a little holiday scent.

Mixing in these small details makes my houseplants feel festive, even without a full tree.

Frequently Asked Questions

People ask me all the time how to pick the right houseplant, decorate it, and keep it healthy through the holidays. I’ve also picked up tips on pet-safe plants and which planters work best for that tree-like look.

What are some low-maintenance houseplants that can double as a Christmas tree?

I think the Rubber Plant and Kentia Palm are great options. They don’t need much attention, grow well indoors, and keep their shape without a lot of fuss.

How can I decorate houseplants to give them a festive Christmas feel?

I use string lights, small ornaments, and lightweight garlands. Heavy decorations are a no-go since they can bend the branches.

Can large houseplants be used effectively as a Christmas tree alternative?

Absolutely! The Fiddle Leaf Fig and Bird of Paradise are both tall and bold. They really fill the space and look amazing with just a few simple lights.

What are the best pots or planters to use when turning a houseplant into a Christmas tree?

I go for sturdy ceramic or weighted planters so nothing tips over. Neutral colors help the decorations stand out, too.

How do I care for my houseplant-turned-Christmas-tree during the holiday season?

I keep the soil just slightly moist and make sure it gets indirect sunlight. I also check that the lights don’t get too hot near the leaves.

Are there any pet-friendly houseplants that I can use as a Christmas tree substitute?

The Kentia Palm is actually a pretty safe choice for homes with cats or dogs. You can check out more info here.

Personally, I steer clear of plants like the Rubber Plant. They’re toxic if pets chew on them, and honestly, who wants to worry about that during the holidays?

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