Looking for a Valentine’s Day gift that keeps on growing? As temperatures soar during the month of love, indoor plants make thoughtful presents that bring life and tranquility to any space. 

Here are our favourite houseplants to gift your Valentine this February and show just how much you care.

Peace lily

There’s something magical about the elegant peace lily, with its glossy dark leaves and pristine white flowers. It’s said that their flowers symbolise devotion – does it get any more romantic?

Perfect for our humid coastal areas or air-conditioned Joburg apartments, this hardy plant thrives in low to medium light conditions. And, just like lasting love itself, it responds beautifully to consistent care and attention. Here’s a guide to getting it right.

String of hearts

Our list simply wouldn’t be complete without this heart-themed alternative to roses for Valentine’s Day. 

Native to our shores, the string of hearts is a trailing groundcover that perfectly captures the spirit of romance. Its delicate heart-shaped leaves cascade down like natural valentines, making it perfect as a hanging basket plant, or positioned as a statement piece on a high shelf. 

Even in our scorching summers, it’s remarkably drought-tolerant – ideal for those partners who might occasionally forget to water their plants!

Anthurium

Want to make a bold statement? 

Also known as the flamingo flower, or lace leaf plant, the anthurium‘s waxy, heart-shaped flowers come in shades of red that last for months, and are complemented by heart-shaped leaves, too. 

They thrive in bright indirect light, especially in coastal areas like Cape Town. You may be surprised to learn that their striking long-lasting blooms are actually modified leaves that attract pollinators.

This is a gift that makes a statement!

Patio rose

What’s better than gifting a bunch of roses? Gifting a patio rose plant, of course!

A list of plants to gift on Valentine’s Day simply wouldn’t be complete without this traditional swoon-worthy choice. They’re the ideal choice for a patio, but will can thrive indoors in a very well-lit area: think hybrid settings like a sunroom.

Chinese evergreen

For those new to plant parenthood, the Chinese evergreen is a foolproof choice that still brings plenty of style. 

Some varieties sport lovely pink or red variegation, making them especially appropriate for Valentine’s Day. They’re incredibly forgiving in indoor conditions and don’t mind if you forget about them for a week or two – though we wouldn’t recommend the same approach with your relationship!

African violet 

African violets, with their dainty purple, pink, or white blooms, are perfect Valentine’s gifts in our climate. 

These compact beauties flower year-round in indoor conditions and symbolise faithfulness in love. Their velvety leaves and charming flowers bring a touch of romance to any sunny windowsill, while being surprisingly low-maintenance. Share these tips with your sweetheart to ensure their gift thrives along with your romance.

Care tips for your Valentine’s plant

Remember to include care instructions with your gift. Most of these plants prefer well-draining potting soil and should only be watered when the top few centimetres of soil feel dry. Our summer temperatures mean they might need more frequent watering, but it’s always better to underwater than overwater.

These indoor beauties make meaningful Valentine’s Day gifts that will continue to bring joy long after the chocolates have been eaten and the roses have wilted. Plus, every new leaf will remind your loved one of your growing relationship – now that’s romance that lasts!
Remember to visit your local Stodels Garden Centre early, as these popular varieties tend to sell out quickly in the lead-up to Valentine’s Day.