Indoor plants can bring the holiday spirit into your home in fresh and creative ways. If you’re looking for something different from the traditional Christmas tree, several houseplants can be decorated just as beautifully.
These plants are charming year-round, yet with a few ornaments and lights, they transform into festive centerpieces.
Using plants you already grow indoors also makes the season more sustainable and personal. With a little imagination, each of these options can brighten your holiday celebrations and leave guests delighted.
Let’s explore ten houseplants you can dress up as Christmas tree alternatives.
#1 Weeping Fig
The glossy leaves and natural fullness of a Weeping Fig make it easy to decorate. Its arching branches can hold lightweight ornaments and fairy lights. Place it in a bright room with indirect light to keep it healthy through the season.
Use metallic ornaments in silver or gold to catch light, and weave in a few strands of warm fairy lights. A fabric tree skirt at the base gives it a finished Christmas look.
#2 Rosemary
Rosemary looks like a miniature evergreen while adding a fresh herbal scent to your space. You can trim it into a cone shape and decorate it with small bows or beads. Bright light near a sunny window keeps it thriving.
Mini candy canes, red ribbon, and star-shaped cutouts look charming against its soft green needles. After the holidays, the sprigs can flavor your winter meals.
#3 Italian Stone Pine
Naturally cone-shaped, the Italian Stone Pine feels like a ready-made holiday tree. Its soft green needles provide a classic Christmas texture. Keep it in a cool, bright spot and water evenly.
Rustic wooden ornaments or dried orange slices create a natural look. Add a string of soft white lights to emphasize its form.
#4 Noble Fir
Noble Fir is prized for its strong branches and fragrant foliage. In containers, it can be styled into a seasonal centerpiece. Keep soil moist and avoid placing it near heaters.
Traditional red and green ornaments paired with plaid ribbons make it feel like a true holiday fir. A star topper completes the festive effect.
#5 Lemon Cypress
The Lemon Cypress glows with bright yellow-green foliage that stands out even without decorations. Its narrow form works well as a tabletop tree. Place it near a sunny window and water regularly.
Wrap it with strands of fairy lights and add miniature red baubles for a striking contrast against its lime-colored foliage.
#6 Dwarf Alberta Spruce
With its dense, pyramidal shape, the Dwarf Alberta Spruce looks like a classic Christmas tree in miniature. Cool, bright conditions help it keep its compact growth.
Mini ornaments, glitter garlands, or even tiny felt stockings make it playful. A few LED tea lights bring out its festive charm without adding weight.
#7 Arizona Cypress
Arizona Cypress offers bluish-green foliage that feels wintry and fresh. Its branches are sturdy enough to hold decorations but should be handled gently. Keep the soil lightly moist and give it bright light.
Pinecones dusted with faux snow or cinnamon sticks tied with twine highlight its rustic character. A few wooden stars or handmade crafts finish the natural look.
#8 Leyland Cypress
This fast-growing cypress can be shaped and styled beautifully for the holidays. Indoors, it makes a bold green statement when decorated. Provide plenty of light and water consistently.
Choose simple string lights and lightweight ornaments to highlight its tall, graceful form. Add a ribbon garland for a touch of elegance.
#9 Norfolk Island Pine
Norfolk Island Pine is a favorite holiday substitute thanks to its soft, layered branches. It prefers bright, indirect light and evenly moist soil.
Go whimsical with colorful ornaments or stick to a minimalist theme with white lights and natural decorations. A handmade paper star looks perfect on top.
#10 Red Cedar
Red Cedar brings a rich, festive scent and soft greenery into your home. Its natural shape works well with minimal styling. Keep it in a cool, bright room and water just enough to keep the soil moist.
Use rustic touches like burlap ribbons, cinnamon sticks, or dried cranberries. A small string of fairy lights enhances the cozy, woodsy feel.