Winter alternatives to Christmas trees

Looking to bring festive cheer into your home but don’t have room for a full-sized Christmas tree?

Whether you’re living in a cosy apartment, trying to minimise your holiday footprint, or simply want a fresh twist on tradition, houseplants can make the perfect Christmas tree alternatives. Plant experts Beards & Daisies have shared their top picks for the best Christmas tree alternatives, complete with expert growing advice and creative decorating ideas.

From Potted Pines to Decorated Figs: 5 Houseplants That Shine as Christmas Trees

1. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus Lyrata)

• Why it’s brilliant: The fiddle leaf fig boasts large, glossy leaves and a tree-like structure that can reach a great height, making it a stunning centrepiece. Its sculptural beauty adds elegance and a modern twist to festive décor.
• Growing Tips: Place it in bright, indirect light and water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are 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.

2. Rubber Plant (Ficus Elastica Robusta)

• Why it’s brilliant: This plant has thick leaves and a naturally upright form, giving it a robust and festive feel. With dark green, burgundy, or variegated leaves, it can easily fit into different Christmas colour schemes.
• Growing Tips: The Rubber Plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light. Water once the soil dries out slightly and mist occasionally to boost humidity.
• Decorating Tips: Use minimal decorations to avoid weighing down its leaves—think garlands, tinsel, or mini baubles tucked around the base.

3. African Fig (Ficus Cyathistipula)

• Why it’s brilliant: The African fig features a strong trunk and attractive foliage, giving it a tree-like presence. Its large leaves and branching form make it stand out as a natural statement piece, especially during the festive season.
• Growing Tips: It thrives in bright, indirect light and needs consistently moist soil, so 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, as the plant is sensitive to excess weight.

4. Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria Heterophylla)

• Why it’s brilliant: With its soft, symmetrical branches and traditional conifer-like shape, the Norfolk Island pine is often dubbed a “living Christmas tree.” It’s perfect for creating a classic holiday look without bringing in a cut tree.
• Growing Tips: 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. Keep decorations lightweight to preserve its natural form.

5. Ficus Joy (Ficus Benghalensis Joy)

• Why it’s brilliant: 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.
• Growing Tips: 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 to give it a festive flair. Consider using decorative pot covers or holiday-themed planters to further enhance its appearance.

Jo, founder of Beards & Daisies and author of the houseplant guide ‘The Unkillables’ comments: “these plants bring charm, greenery, and a touch of holiday magic to any space, offering a unique twist on traditional Christmas trees.”