Plants make great gifts because they continue to bring joy throughout the year. A houseplant adds a little life and color to any space and it helps naturally clean the air, which is never a bad thing. So this year, give low-maintenance plants that just about anyone can grow and give the gift of an environmentally-friendly holiday.
For someone who goes for the aesthetics

Snake plant is well known for being low maintenance. It doesn’t need a ton of care and it’s got a cool look. The pattern on the leaves look a little like snakeskin, which is how this plant got its name. Snake plants are drought-tolerant and can survive in lower light levels, even though it prefers bright light. Best of all, this plant is one of the best air-purifying plants you can get. It filters out lots of chemicals you’d rather not be breathing.
Related: 9 ways to add more houseplants to your home
For someone who has a black thumb

A rubber tree is a great choice for someone who likes plants but also has a black thumb. This plant is hardy enough to withstand all sorts of neglect, including under-watering and over-watering. The thick, rubbery leaves add an interesting element to any space. Give this plant bright sunlight and it will filter the air and look great.
For the health guru

Aloe vera is the superstar of houseplants, so it’s hard to go wrong with this one. The plant is known for being a natural healer. All you need to do is cut off a leaf and place the juice on cuts, burns, rashes, cuts and skin irritations of all kinds. Aloe vera looks nice and it’s not hard to grow, so it’s a perfect gift.
For someone who’s a little bit extra

Monstera adansonii doesn’t get very large, always a plus in a houseplant, and has lacy leaves that are covered in small holes. This plant has a super cool look, which makes it great for gift-giving. As long as it gets light and semi-regular water, this plant will do just fine with a little light pruning.
For the amateur plant lover

The ZZ plant is a great choice for those who aren’t experienced plant growers. It’s highly drought tolerant so it doesn’t need a lot of care and attention. It also looks great with its dark green leaves in an interesting shape.
For someone who’s such a ball of sunshine

Think outside the box a little and give the gift of a moss ball. It’s aquatic and it can survive in just about any kind of condition. Literally, you drop this in a bowl of water. It can survive almost any level of light and it looks super weird and interesting.
For someone who’s starting a new chapter in their life

Jade plants symbolize renewal and growth, so it’s a great gift for anyone facing a new beginning in life. The plant is also unique-looking with a somewhat cigar-shaped foliage. This is a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t need a lot of care. Put it near some light and give it occasional water and it should do just fine.
Via Martha Stewart, Salisbury Greenhouse and Oprah Daily
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