The act of giving a housewarming gift is an ancient tradition, symbolizing warmth and good wishes for the new residents. Houseplants have become a popular choice because they offer a lasting presence that flowers cannot, introducing life and permanence into a freshly settled space. Selecting the right plant for a new home involves balancing the recipient’s potential gardening skill with the plant’s meaning and the practicalities of their living situation.
This guidance will navigate these choices to help you select a thoughtful and appropriate living gift.
Low Maintenance and Hardy Plant Recommendations
New homeowners are often preoccupied with unpacking and organizing, making a resilient plant that tolerates a bit of neglect an ideal gift. The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is the most forgiving option, thriving on infrequent watering and handling low light levels well. Its thick leaves and rhizomes store water efficiently, allowing it to survive for weeks without attention. The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) is similarly durable and tolerates a wide range of light conditions.
Another excellent choice for resilience is the Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), often called Devil’s Ivy due to its ability to survive harsh conditions and its vigorous growth. Pothos is highly adaptable to various light exposures, and its trailing vines quickly create a sense of lushness. The Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is also notably hardy, tolerating inconsistent watering and producing small “spiderettes,” or plantlets, that can be easily propagated.
Plants with Specific Symbolic Meaning
Plants can carry deep, traditional meanings that transform a simple gift into a thoughtful blessing for the new household. The Money Tree (Pachira aquatica) is frequently gifted because its braided trunk is believed to trap good fortune, and its five-lobed leaves symbolize the five elements of feng shui. This plant represents a wish for wealth and abundance in the new home.
The Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) is associated with tranquility, purity, and hope. It tolerates lower light and produces elegant white flower-like spathes, often recommended to bring positive energy into a space. For a gift symbolizing love, beauty, and luxury, the Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis) is a sophisticated option. The Chinese Money Plant (Pilea peperomioides), with its distinct coin-shaped leaves, is also a popular symbol of prosperity and friendship.
Gifting Considerations: Size, Toxicity, and Environment
Selecting a plant requires careful consideration of the recipient’s household and the physical space of their new home. Toxicity is a serious concern, particularly if the new home includes small children or pets, such as cats and dogs. Many popular, easy-care plants contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that, if ingested, can cause intense oral irritation, swelling, and difficulty swallowing.
The Peace Lily, Pothos, ZZ Plant, and Snake Plant are all potentially toxic plants. For homes with curious pets, it is safest to choose truly non-toxic alternatives or to ensure the toxic plant can be placed completely out of reach.
Size and Placement
The plant’s final size should be considered to avoid presenting a burdensome item during the chaos of moving. A plant that is too large can be difficult to transport and may not fit the recipient’s available space. A moderately sized tabletop or floor plant is often best.
Environmental Needs
The recipient’s likely living conditions must guide the selection, especially concerning light availability. If the new home has limited window exposure, a plant that tolerates low light, like a Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior), is appropriate. Conversely, a home with large, south-facing windows can accommodate plants that demand bright, indirect light, such as a Jade Plant or an Orchid. Matching the plant’s needs to the environment ensures its long-term survival.
Preparing the Gift for Presentation
The presentation of the plant enhances the thoughtfulness of the gift. A plant should always be removed from its plastic nursery pot and placed into an attractive, decorative planter that complements the new home’s style. Selecting a planter with a drainage hole or a cachepot (a decorative outer pot) is recommended to prevent overwatering issues. Adding a simple bow or ribbon provides a final touch of polish. Crucially, a handwritten care card must accompany the gift, detailing the specific needs of the species, including ideal light exposure and a clear, simple watering frequency. This card provides the new homeowner with the confidence to help their living gift thrive.