The green way to cut your festive footprint
If you want to curb your consumption this festive season, using houseplants instead of Christmas trees is an ideal way to add seasonal cheer with a modern twist. You may not have room for a traditional tree in a small flat. If not, houseplants are the perfect solution.
Plant experts Beards & Daisies have shared their favourite Christmas tree alternatives, with expert growing advice and creative decorating ideas. Read more about Beards & Daisies’ advice in my posts on houseplants curbing mould and the prayer plant.
Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
- The fiddle leaf fig boasts large, glossy leaves and a tree-like structure. It can reach a great height, making it a stunning centrepiece. Its sculptural beauty adds elegance to festive décor.
- How to grow: Place it in bright, indirect light and water when the top 2.5-5cm of soil is dry.
- Decorating tips: String fairy lights around the trunk or drape them gently on the branches. Add lightweight ornaments or festive bows, but avoid heavy décor to prevent leaf damage.
Using houseplants instead of Christmas trees – Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica Robusta)
- This plant has thick leaves and a naturally upright form. With dark green, burgundy, or variegated leaves, it can easily fit into different Christmas colour schemes.
- How to grow: Plants prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light. Water when the soil dries out slightly and mist leaves occasionally to boost humidity.
- Decorating tips: Use minimal decorations to avoid weighing down its leaves. Garlands, tinsel, or mini baubles tucked around the base will work.
African Fig (Ficus cyathistipula)
- The African fig features a strong trunk and attractive foliage, giving it a tree-like presence. Its large leaves and branching form make it a natural statement piece.
- How to grow: It thrives in bright, indirect light and needs consistently moist soil. Water when the topsoil starts to dry. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages new growth.
- Decorating tips: Use lightweight ornaments, mini wreaths, or a string of fairy lights wrapped around the branches. Avoid over-decorating to prevent branch damage.
Using houseplants instead of Christmas trees – Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla)
- With its soft, symmetrical branches and conifer-like shape, the Norfolk Island pine is often called a ‘living Christmas tree’. It’s perfect for creating a classic holiday look without bringing in a cut tree.
- How to grow: Keep it in bright, indirect light and water regularly to keep the soil slightly moist. This plant enjoys higher humidity, so mist occasionally or use a humidifier.
- Decorating tips: This tree can only handle lightweight ornaments and strings of mini lights. Be gentle with the branches as they are more delicate than those of traditional pines.
Ficus Joy (Ficus benghalensis Joy)
- With a compact, elegant structure, Ficus Joy makes a lovely festive focal point. Its glossy leaves add a touch of lush greenery and can easily transform into a festive display.
- How to grow: Prefers bright, indirect light and should be watered when the top layer of soil dries out. Avoid sudden temperature changes and drafts to prevent leaf drop.
- Decorating tips: Decorate it with small, colourful baubles or tiny string lights. Consider using decorative pot covers or holiday-themed planters too.
Jo, founder of Beards & Daisies and author of the houseplant guide The Unkillables said: “These plants bring charm, greenery, and a touch of holiday magic to any space, offering a unique twist on traditional Christmas trees.”
For more information, visit www.beardsanddaisies.co.uk.
