Not too big, not too small, not too crooked. Choosing a Christmas tree is not as simple as it seems. Getting it home in one piece and decorating it is no easy task either. Where did all the decorations go? Why are the lights tangled again this year? And which bauble goes where? Stop right there. This year, you don’t need to juggle all the (Christmas) balls at once. Go for a fresh, modern alternative to the classic Christmas tree. We’ll walk you through seven great options. Which one will be your favourite?
You’ll enjoy these alternative Christmas trees not only in December, but all year round.
1
Norfolk Island pine
If you can’t picture December without a pine, choose the Norfolk Island Pine, or Araucaria, as a charming alternative. You can recognise it by the layered ‘floors’ of branches along the stem. These branches are covered with small, fresh green needles that don’t drop. Want to make yours completely Christmas-ready? A few lights instantly give the plant a festive look.
Fun fact: with good care, it grows a new layer every year
Care tips: Norfolk Island Pine
Place it somewhere bright (no direct sunlight) and not too warm. It also does fine in a slightly shadier spot, although it will grow more slowly. Keep the soil lightly moist, never too wet.
2
Philodendron pedatum
With its beautifully deep-cut leaves, Philodendron pedatum is a true showstopper. It’s a climbing plant that loves growing up a moss pole. Decorate it with a string of lights from top to bottom and it becomes a real festive highlight. The perfect alternative to the Christmas tree, if you ask us.
Tip: hang a long string of lights and/or small cards with Christmas wishes in the plant
Care tips: Philodendron pedatum
Place it in a bright spot (no direct sunlight). Keep the soil lightly moist. It prefers small sips of water more often over large amounts at once. If the leaves turn brown, it’s getting too little water. If they turn yellow, it’s getting too much.
3
Pachira
Pachira, also known as the money tree, makes a wonderfully elegant alternative to the classic Christmas tree. The plant has striking, hand-shaped leaves that grow almost horizontally, and braided stems that are perfect for weaving a small string of lights through.
Pachira symbolises luck and prosperity. That makes it the ideal green Christmas gift!
Care tips: Pachira
It prefers partial shade and doesn’t need much water, as it stores moisture in its trunk. Keep the soil lightly moist in summer. In winter, let the root ball dry slightly between waterings. Regular misting with a plant spray makes Pachira extra happy. Turn the plant occasionally, as it grows towards the light.
4
Ficus lyrata
Want to make a bold green statement this December? Go for Ficus lyrata, also called the fiddle-leaf fig. Its large, glossy, leathery leaves give it a strong visual presence. It’s available in both small and large sizes (the photo above shows an XL version on a stem).
Give Ficus lyrata a festive look by hiding mini baubles between the large leaves
Care tips: Ficus lyrata
It prefers a bright spot but not direct sunlight. Water regularly so the soil stays lightly moist. Because the leaves are large, occasional dusting is essential to keep them looking glossy and healthy.
Prefer a Christmas tree, but want something just a bit different? If you still want a tree, but with a twist, try a floral alternative. Replace baubles with (dried) flowers. The result is natural, calm and instantly atmospheric.
Would you still like a Christmas tree, only with a different twist?
If you want to bring a tree into your home yet prefer something a little less traditional, go for a flower-filled alternative to the classic Christmas tree. Replace baubles with fresh or dried flowers, and you get a surprising, natural and calming centrepiece that brings instant warmth to your home.
5
A Christmas tree with dried flowers
Try decorating your tree with dried flowers, such as baby's breath, instead of lights and baubles. Dried flowers give your tree a natural, soft and serene look. Because they last, your decorations stay beautiful throughout the season. Still want lights and baubles? No problem, just add them.
Gypsophila creates a beautiful snow-like effect in the tree.
6
A Christmas tree with floral ornaments
Love Christmas ornaments but want something unique? Go for a botanical twist. Make your own floral hangers and transform your tree into a sea of blooms. Making them is simple. Follow the step-by-step guide here.
Velvety petals, scented flowers and botanical textures give your Christmas tree a warm, chic look
7
A Christmas tree with floral baubles
Prefer not to skip baubles at all? Create floral versions. Fill transparent plastic baubles with dried flowers and small sprigs like eucalyptus or fir. Choose colours that match the rest of your Christmas décor. Think white and soft pink for a serene winter look, or red and purple for a warm, traditional feel.
Make your floral baubles extra personal by adding a handwritten Christmas wish inside
More Christmas inspiration
Curious for more ideas and tips to create a green festive season? Discover how to decorate your Christmas table with plants and branches, or get hands-on with beautiful floral Christmas DIY’s. Giving your handmade decorations as a gift? Wrap them in sustainable, botanical fabric for an extra special touch.
