One of the best parts of the holidays is connecting with friends and family, as well as the annual gift swap. Plants and flowers are a great “green” gift, particularly for the environmentally conscious recipient. And they’re perfect for brightening up a room during the winter months.

There are a variety of gorgeous plants and flowers available to enjoy indoors. Cyclamen, Christmas cactus and Poinsettias are the traditional Christmas plants. New this year is the Princettia poinsettia, available in three amazing colors: Hot Pink, Dark Pink and Max White. 

Or consider Amaryllis or Paperwhite narcissus: Two great bulbs easy to force into bloom.

Paper whites provide tall stalks of fragrant, white trumpeted flowers. Amaryllis bulbs produce large flowers and come in many beautiful shades of red, white, pink, striped and bi-color. Both are available in gift-ready kits or pre-planted pots ready to bloom. Kits include growing material, bulbs and an attractive container.

Or you can plant your own. It’s an easy, quick idea, particularly if you need a unique idea in a hurry. Select a shallow bowl, pot or saucer that will accommodate the bulbs. Planting medium can be pea gravel, decorative stones or even potting soil. Set the bulbs onto the medium, and push them down so they’re supported upright. The deeper they’re planted, the stronger the root structure. However, leave at least one-third of the bulb exposed.

Paper whites need drainage, so the bulbs don’t rot. They can, however, handle a moist environment. Add water, just below the bulbs. Keep watered, allowing roots to take hold and sprouts to appear. Keep in a brightly lit window. Bulbs should flower in about 4 to 6 weeks. During the flowering period, water when the soil is dry to the touch. Plant pots in succession, so there will be blooms all winter long.

Even green house plants, like ferns and peace lilies, can be stunning when creatively grouped and given a festive touch with fresh evergreen branches, lights and ribbon.

Bromeliad and orchid plants are other options for unique holiday decorations and gifts. While in bloom, orchids can survive in virtually any location in your house. Enjoying the beauty of the flowers is the best benefit of growing orchids. Place your plant in a prominent place in your home or office, so you’ll receive maximum enjoyment.

With so many options, it’s not difficult to find a beautiful holiday plant for everyone on your list.