Roses are a classic symbol of Valentine’s day, but if your loved one would appreciate something a little more unusual then a houseplant is a great choice. Houseplants make excellent gifts as they offer a unique way to show someone that you know them. The following all have something special which makes them uniquely romantic houseplants, perfectly suited to Valentine’s Day.
1) Anthurium
With its glossy, heart shaped spathes, it’s easy to see why this tropical houseplant is a Valentines day favourite.
Anthuriums come in different colours, but the red and pink varieties are associated with love, passion, and friendship.
Quick care facts
| ☀️ Light | Bright but indirect |
| 💧 Water | Prefers rainwater or filtered water. Keep moist but don’t overwater. |
| ♨️ Humidity | Warm and humid. |
| 🪴 Compost | Acidic and well-drained. |
| 🌺 Flowering | Multiple times throughout the year. |
| ⚠️ Toxicity | Toxic to humans and pets. |
2) Sweetheart plant (Hoya Kerrii)
Sometimes known as the Valentine Hoya, this unusual succulent makes the list for its distinctive heart shaped leaves. In summer, fragrant clusters of tiny white and purple flowers add an extra layer of interest.
These plants are slow growing so, if possible, it’s best to choose an established specimen.
Quick care facts
| ☀️ Light | Bright but indirect. |
| 💧 Water | Regular in summer, reduced in winter. |
| ♨️ Humidity | Warm temperatures, moderate humidity. |
| 🪴 Compost | Well-drained potting compost. |
| 🌺 Flowering | Summer. |
| ⚠️ Toxicity | Not toxic to humans or pets. |
3) String of hearts (Ceropegia woodii)
String of hearts is a stunning plant for any occasion, but its iconic heart shaped leaves held on delicate trailing stems make it ideal for Valentines day.
Although mostly sought after for its foliage, with proper care it may also reward you in summer with pink, tubular flowers.
Quick care facts
| ☀️ Light | Bright but indirect. |
| 💧 Water | Regular in summer, reduced in winter. Never let stand in water. |
| ♨️ Humidity | Moderate temperature, average humidity. |
| 🪴 Compost | Well-drained, ideally Cactus compost. |
| 🌺 Flowering | Summer. |
| ⚠️ Toxicity | Not toxic to humans or pets. |
4) Sweetheart Ivy (Hedera helix ‘Sweetheart’)
This attractive variety of English ivy is a popular houseplant, featuring small, heart-shaped leaves on trailing stems.
It looks stunning spilling over containers, but can also be trained to climb if desired.
Quick care facts
| ☀️ Light | Bright but indirect. |
| 💧 Water | Keep moist but don’t overwater. |
| ♨️ Humidity | Average temperature and moderate humidity. |
| 🪴 Compost | Well-drained potting mix. |
| 🌺 Flowering | Unlikely in pot grown plants. |
| ⚠️ Toxicity | Toxic to humans and pets. |
5) Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis orchids)
Orchids are a perfect Valentine’s gift. Their arching, elegant stems and luxurious flowers are a stunning addition to any space.
Orchids are easy to care for and can bloom at any time of the year, making them ideal for brightening the dark February days.
Quick care facts
| ☀️ Light | Bright but indirect. |
| 💧 Water | Keep moist but don’t overwater. |
| ♨️ Humidity | Warm temperature, average humidity. |
| 🪴 Compost | Acidic and well-drained. |
| 🌺 Flowering | Multiple times throughout the year. |
| ⚠️ Toxicity | Not toxic to humans or pets. |
Final thoughts
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to end with wilted roses on the kitchen counter. These romantic houseplants are a unique and thoughtful alternative which can grow and thrive long after February 14th has passed.