Updated 13/06/2025
A new year is a great time to give a gift of a plant to symbolise new beginnings or bring houseplants into your own home to celebrate the new year.
What does New Year mean to you? A new start and the chance to put last year’s ‘annus horribilis,’ as our late Queen once famously said, well and truly behind us!
Did you know that New Year’s Day was traditionally a time for gift-giving? Romans celebrated with offerings to their god Janus hoping for good fortune in the year ahead, and friends exchanged gifts of figs and honey.
However, now, New Year’s Day gift-giving isn’t what it used to be and giving figs and honey might get you a puzzled look from the recipient. Although, it is a lovely idea to revive that ancient gift-giving tradition. Giving plants is a great way to do that, being a living symbol of fresh beginnings and good wishes too.
Symbolism
Choosing a plant with symbolism attached to it also makes it stand out from the ordinary.
For example the houseplant Calathea symbolises new beginnings. It is said to originate from the saying ‘to turn over a new leaf’. That is exactly what this plant does in the dark which makes it an extra special gift!
Another indoor plant that’s flowering at this time of year is Hippeastrum (commonly sold and known as Amaryllis). The bold flowers appear in clusters at the top of long stout stems and are said to symbolise a fresh start.
Calathea makoyana (peacock plant)
Firstly, this tropical evergreen plant has amazingly intricately marked light green upright leaves up to 25cm long covered with darker, closely spaced oval blotches all along the length of each leaf. It grows to a height and spread of 60cm x 30cm. It’s best grown on a tray of gravel to give it the extra humidity it loves and placed in a constantly warm room out of direct light.
Alternatively, the symbolism can come from the name itself.
Rosa ‘New Beginnings’ (Rose)
This aptly named, shiny leafed shrub rose has clusters of beautiful apricot/peach coloured, scented flowers, which gives the recipient something to look forward to. It’s a compact plant reaching a height and spread of 75cm x 60cm.
Feng shui
Feng shui is the practice of arranging things inside the home to create balance with the natural world, but it’s also as much about symbolism as it is about where things are placed.
Dracaena sanderiana (lucky bamboo)
The lucky bamboo is not only said to bring good luck wherever it’s placed in the home but is also the ultimate plant symbol of good fortune! It’s associated with resilience and flexibility; bending but not breaking.
It’s not actually a bamboo, but an evergreen perennial that is super easy to grow either in water or in soil. They also love to be grown in a place where they get bright, filtered light.
Orchids
Orchids are said to attract a new partner. Placing one in the far back right corner of a bedroom (the relationship zone of a bedroom in Feng shui terms) is said to attract a partner who’s honourable and honest!
Health
If somebody you know and care for is wanting or needing to improve their health a lovely gesture is to give them a living herb basket. This can either be pre-made from a Garden Centre or Plant Nursery or one you’ve put together yourself in a pretty basket.
Either pot the herbs containers or plant them all together. However, ensure you line the basket with plastic with holes punched in it for drainage.
So, let’s ring in the new year with the positivity of plants and spread some joy to start this new chapter. A new year means new beginnings and giving plants is a great way to celebrate that.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1 – Why are plants a good gift for the New Year?
Plants symbolise growth, renewal, and fresh starts, making them a meaningful New Year gift. Whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, a plant is a living reminder of hope, intention, and a clean slate for the months ahead.
2 – What plant best represents new beginnings?
The Calathea, especially Calathea makoyana, is known for symbolising new beginnings. Its leaves physically turn over at night—a nod to the expression “turning over a new leaf.” It’s perfect for marking a fresh start in the new year.
3 – How does lucky bamboo symbolise good fortune?
Though not a true bamboo, Dracaena sanderiana is believed to bring luck, resilience, and prosperity, especially in Feng Shui. It’s easy to grow and makes an excellent desk or windowsill companion to start the year with positive energy.
4 – Can I use plants to support New Year health goals?
Yes—a herb basket is a fantastic, healthy start to the year. Fill a container with living herbs like rosemary, thyme, mint, or parsley. They’re easy to care for and offer fresh flavour and nutrition, encouraging healthier home cooking.
5 – Can I grow Calathea in the UK?
Yes, but it’s best kept as an indoor plant. Calatheas like indirect light, consistent warmth, and high humidity, so place them in a bright bathroom or on a tray of damp gravel. Avoid direct sunlight to keep their stunning foliage healthy.
David Domoney is a Chartered Horticulturalist, Broadcaster, and Author. David has worked with a number of the UK’s leading garden retailers as a plant buyer and strategic consultant. With more than 30 years experience, in horticulture, David is as passionate about plants now as he was when he bought his first plant at a village fete.
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