Plants are the gifts that keep on giving, continuing to grow long after the holiday cheer subsides.
They can brighten up indoor spaces, breathe life into balconies and courtyards, flavour culinary adventures, and provide bountiful harvests.
So, if you’re stuck on what to give others this season, go for a plant (or two) and let nature do the talking.
If you’re gifting to someone who has never had a plant or is a serial green-killer, welcome them to plant parenthood with something easy. Photo: iStock
Houseplants are great gifts, but not all are created equal. Some require more light and humidity, while others are content with less.
If your present is for someone who has never had a plant or is a serial green-killer, welcome them to plant parenthood with something easy.
Zanzibar gem (Zamioculcus zamiifolia) has long, fleshy stems with small, glossy green leaves. It prefers a brightly lit spot but is tolerant of lower light levels and can go weeks between watering.
Similarly, the snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata) is adaptable to a wide range of indoor conditions, and you can find them in various shapes, colours and patterns – my personal favourite is the whale-fin snake plant (Dracaena masoniana).
Other options to consider are the Ctenanthe burle-marxii, anthurium, monstera and peace lily.
Everyone should have a lemon tree on their balcony or in their backyard. They are attractive and yield an abundance of fruit.
You can get dwarf versions of most fruit trees. Photo: Amy Covington
The trees can grow four metres high but dwarf options are available, reaching between one and 1.5 metres and perfect for small spaces.
Limes are also available in compact forms, and so are other members of the citrus family.
In fact, you can find dwarf options of most fruit trees, including stone and pome fruit, avocadoes, mangoes and pomegranates. Potted blueberries or thornless blackberries are also worthy candidates.
Looking for native options? Try midyim berries (Austromyrtus dulcis), Atherton raspberries (Rubus probus) or muntries (Kunzea pomifera).
For the foodies in your life, a collection of aromatic herbs will hit the spot.
For the foodies in your life, a collection of aromatic herbs will hit the spot. Photo: Ina Peters
Explore themed options, like pairing sweet basil, oregano, rosemary and thyme for a Mediterranean flair.
Or, for South-East Asian cuisines, opt for lemongrass, mint, coriander, Thai basil and garlic chives.
Combine the herbs with a stylish planter and a liquid fertiliser for the perfect complete gift.
The beauty of blooms can be appreciated by all. Potted roses, gardenias or lavender are fabulous, fragrant options, and they make great cut flowers too.
While not scented, native kangaroo paws, hibiscus, fuchsia, hydrangeas and compact bougainvilleas are also delightful choices.
Potted roses, gardenias or lavender are fabulous, fragrant options, and they make great cut flowers too. Photo: Stocksy
With a bit of care, these plants will continue to bloom year on year; becoming a lasting symbol of your thoughtful gesture.
To support the recipient’s horticultural journey, you may also like to include:
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