17 Festive Houseplants to Enliven Your Christmas Decor

Adding holiday cheer doesn't just have to include showstopping trees and traditional garland. Christmas decorating also requires adding a personal touch to your festive decorations, whether it's handmade ornaments, family heirlooms, or something just slightly unexpected. Instead of red roses or other floral arrangements, try potted Christmas plants. Brilliant red and white amaryllis or a miniature tabletop rosemary tree dripping with ornaments offer just the right amount of creative yet understated sophistication for the holidays. They also make wonderful gifts, and may even become a go-to holiday tradition when decorating for the season.

Many of these Christmas plants, like the poinsettia and holly bush, are steeped in folklore and tradition, but there are plenty of unexpected varieties that are sure to add to loads of elegant holiday cheer.