A Look at Unique Holiday Plants

It is that time of the year when “we deck the halls with boughs of holly” along with a mass collection of potted red poinsettias.

How about looking beyond the traditional and discover other houseplants that are simple and versatile with colors that still lend themselves to the traditional Christmas spirit? There are plants that you might not have thought of that will do great both indoors and outdoors and still retain their festive colors long beyond the holidays.

Take a look at Aglaonema, also called Chinese Evergreen. It is often referred to as the Lucky Plant and is a colorful favorite in China, where it is considered, you guessed it, lucky! Native to China and the Philippines, this lush tropical foliage is an easy-to-care-for houseplant with leaves in a combination of white, dark green, pink, and even orange.

It was the variation of colors that drew me to these Lucky Plants last year. From one plant, I’ve grown my collection in several cultivars. It is a perfect addition to the traditional holiday colors and also makes a non-traditional gift. Once you mention “Lucky Plant,” you will be asked to share why it is considered a Lucky Plant – part of its charm!

Growing up, we used to call Aglaonema Philippine Evergreen - the popular variety has lush yet boring green leaves, sometimes with white specs. These plants are similar to those you see in offices everywhere since they are known to tolerate poor light with little maintenance.

In recent years, this Lucky Plant has shown it is more than just “a boring green foliage,” and with the talent of hybridizers from Asia and Thailand, they are now available in an amazing array of vibrant colors ranging from pinks, reds, silvers, striped or speckled. They are the perfect splash of color without being overpowering. 

There are over 20 known cultivars of Aglaonema. Here is a good starter collection that may add LUCK to your gift-giving list!

“Prestige” is an Aglaonema with bright shiny leaves with irregular variegation in either patches or specks, and the leaf colors will appear pink, bright green or even red, orange and yellow.

“Siam Aurora” was my first cultivar with crimson to ruby stripes along its edge and mid-rib and the leaf bright to mid-green with lots of emeralds in it!

“Red Anjamani” or reds are thought to bring good fortune so think Feng Shui for the holiday collection. This variety has a lot of reds to satisfy your red theme for the holiday. It is a very showy and catchy cultivar and provides a focal point that you can’t miss. The leaf color is usually crimson red and bright green.

If you love pink, “Prosperity” should be your first choice. They should rename this variety to “ever prosperously pink.” The leaf color is pink and green (with some cream).

A glossy, lush and colorful variegation is the hallmark of most varieties of Aglaonema. Lucky Plants are found in most local nurseries - look closer for cultivars that bear these color variations.

Please note: Live plants have become more and more common in the holiday setting, used as garlands, wreaths, and table centerpieces with poinsettia and holly as the ever-popular live plant go-to. Just remember that poinsettia and holly are both toxic to pets and humans. The Lucky Plant/Chinese Evergreen is also toxic to pets and humans so please be safe when decorating with live plants. Keep them high and away from nibbling pets and curious children.