5 Houseplant Christmas Tree Alternatives You Can Decorate

On November 18, 2024By Pranco

Are you tired of the same old Christmas tree and are you looking for something different this year? Well, there are plenty of alternatives to a Christmas tree for houseplants that you can decorate just like a spruce or fir tree.

Christmas wouldn’t be the same without some of the best christmas houseplants such as a poinsettia on display, but what about the houseplants that can stand as Christmas trees?

We reached out to houseplant experts to determine just that – so if you haven’t quite decided what this year’s centerpiece is and you’re looking for alternative christmas tree ideasthese are the houseplants you should take into account.

We’ve even included decorating tips for each plant so you can create breathtaking displays…

1. Rubber factory

Rubber plant houseplant in jute planter next to freestanding lamp and sofa

(Image credit: Getty Images/Oscar Wong)

First on our list of houseplant Christmas tree alternatives is the rubber plant Ficus elastica robusta. Despite its tropical origins, learning how to care for a rubber plant is simpleand its structure makes it a brilliant Christmas tree addition.

‘This plant has thick leaves and a naturally upright shape, giving it a robust and festive feel,’ says Jo Lambell, founder of Beards and daisies. ‘With dark green, burgundy or variegated leaves, it fits easily into various Christmas color schemes.’

The rubber plant is perfect if you prefer a minimalist look at Christmas. Jo even recommends light decorating to maintain the plant’s shape.

“Use minimal decorations to keep the leaves from becoming heavy,” she explains. “Think streamers, tinsel or mini trinkets tucked around the base.”

Where to buy a rubber plant:

Amazon: This rubber plant is available in two different sizes
Beards and daisies: Another great place to buy one rubber plant

Jo Lambell

Jo discovered her passion for houseplants in 2001 after transporting a 6ft Monstera house on public transport and realizing there had to be a better way to get plants delivered. This gave rise to the idea for a company that makes plant delivery more accessible. Jo and her Plant Folk team are all about spreading the plant love and sharing expert tips with both novice and seasoned plant enthusiasts.

2. Violin leaf fig

Fiddle leaf fig houseplant in basket plant pot next to brown sofa with cushions

(Image credit: Getty Images/Daniel Cortez)

Fiddle-leaf figs are also popular alternatives to houseplant Christmas trees thanks to their tree-like structure and broad leaves. Provide a fiddle-leaf fig can be a little tricky, but it’s worth it for such a rewarding houseplant.

“The fiddle-leaf fig can reach beautiful great heights, matching the size of a standard Christmas tree and accommodating long-awaited presents,” says Tiffany Dent, an experienced Wecandoo craftsman and founder of The Archway Planter.

‘Decorate with velvet ribbons and fairy lights to create a festive reflective glow on their glossy leaves.’

Jo is also a big fan of the fiddle leaf fig at Christmas. “The sculptural beauty adds elegance and a modern twist to the festive decor,” she says.

Where to buy a fiddle leaf fig:

3. Crying Fig

Weeping fig houseplant in black pot next to white landing railing

(Image credit: Getty Images/Helin Loik Tomson)

Do you see a pattern here? Weeping fig is another brilliant houseplant Christmas tree alternative that belongs to the fig family.

‘The graceful, arching branches and bushy appearance resemble a small tree and create a traditional Christmas tree atmosphere,’ says Jo. “It comes in green or variegated forms.”

Have weeping figs loads of branches, so that there is enough space to hang Christmas baubles and other Christmas decorations.

‘Lightweight baubles, fairy lights or ribbons will work well without overwhelming the delicate branches,’ suggests Jo. ‘Hanging handmade ornaments can add a personal touch.’

Where to buy a weeping fig:

4. Areca palm

Areca palm houseplant in basket pot on stand at the bottom of yellow stairs

(Image credit: Getty Images/Vera Vita)

Speaking of busy leaves and branches, the areca palm also makes our list of the best houseplant Christmas tree alternatives. It may not look like a traditional tree, but it’s a brilliant choice if you want to add a tropical flair to your home during the colder months.

“The areca palm is easy to find in a variety of sizes and has a lush, bushy appearance, making it a great Christmas canvas,” says Tiffany. ‘The delicate leaves are best decorated with the lightest Christmas baubles.’

Jo also recommends keeping decorations light to maintain the plant’s natural shape and movement. “Wrap a decorative ribbon around the pot and weave string lights through the leaves,” she suggests.

Where to buy an areca palm:

5. Dragon Tree

Dragon tree or Dracaena marginata houseplant growing in wicker basket pot

(Image credit: Getty Images/CoinUp)

The dragon tree is another popular Christmas tree alternative, but like some of the other houseplants on this list, you’ll want to choose lightweight decorations to keep the leaves from becoming heavy.

‘Use decorations sparingly to prevent the spiky leaves from becoming heavy,’ advises Jo. ‘Adding small LED string lights or lightweight stars can enhance the festive look without overwhelming the plant.’

It’s a brilliant option if you want to fill a small space. “The dragon tree is narrow and neat, yet has a festive star shape on the leaves,” says Tiffany. “Decorate with tinsel or paper decorations.”

Where to buy a dragon tree:

Frequently asked questions

What is an alternative to a potted Christmas tree?

All of the houseplant Christmas tree alternatives on our list can be grown in a pot: the rubber plant, fiddle leaf fig, weeping fig, areca palm and dragon tree are all wonderful Christmas tree alternatives that can be decorated.

You can also try the snake plant or a bird of paradise plant for a similar upright structure.

How can I decorate my house without a Christmas tree?

There are countless ways to decorate a house without a Christmas tree, whether or not you’re looking for one budget christmas decoration ideas or Christmas Decorating Ideas for Small Spaces.

Stair railings, mantels, or doorways are a great place to start; consider dressing them up with streamers or other festive decorations. You could even experiment with it Christmas wreath ideas to decorate the front door.

Are you trading your Christmas tree for a houseplant this year?