Poinsettias have reigned supreme among houseplants since early last century, thanks to California farmer Albert Eckes. But, other Christmas plants are waiting in the wings for the same appreciation and applause.

Red, green, and white continue to take center stage in seasonal decor. Deep burgundy adds warmth and lavishness on those cold, dark days. But plants in purples, silver, and gold can also invigorate your décor and inspire you with that holiday feeling. Consider adding some of these Christmas plants to your wish list.

Calathea Triostar

Stromanthe aka calathea triostar, a beautiful ground cover plant

Image credits: Andi WG via Shutterstock

In some parts of the United States, such as the Midwest, calathea triostar (Stromanthe sanguinea) has already become a seasonal favorite. It goes by other names, such as triostar stromanthe plant and Stromanthe sanguinea "Tricolor." A member of the prayer plant family, it has glossy leaves that are green and creamy white on top and red underneath. It's the tricolor trifecta of Christmas décor.

What It Needs: A quality, soilless growing medium that is kept moist but allowed to dry out a bit between waterings. This herbaceous perennial thrives in temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit and high humidity.

Caladium 'Red Flash'

Caladium Red Flash

Image credit: James St. John via Wikimedia Commons

Caladium's large, decorative foliage is spectacular any time of the year. But they add an extra splash during winter, especially if you live in a dark and dreary winter zone. They are a bit more difficult to care for, but their beauty is worth it. 'Red Flash' and 'White Christmas' cultives are great choices for an extra seasonal touch.

If you live in zones 9 to 11, you can also house it in containers outdoors on a shady porch or entryway to welcome seasonal visitors.

What It Needs: Bright to moderate light, warm temperatures, and good humidity. Any soil will do, but it should be kept moist.

Coleus

Coleus with Red and Gold Leaves for Christmas Plants

Image credit: ClatieK via Openverse

Greens, reds, pinks, purple, gold, and white can flood your home with an assortment of coleus plants. Their fragrant, camphor-like leaves are extra gifts you can enjoy throughout the season.

Opt for redhead, velvet red, or Main Street Yonge Street coleus for bursts of red. Inferno coleus has vivid orange leaves, and the burgundy shades bring a luxurious splash to their hue. With its crimson and golden-green leaves, Premium sun coleus is uber popular. And wizard jade offers something different with its green-and-creamy white leaves.

What It Needs: Well-drained soil and frequent watering. Follow the light recommendations for the coleus you buy. Some of them like full sun, while others prefer partial shade.

Angel Wings

Angel Wings Senecio candidans Christmas Plants

Image credit: Kolforn via Wikimedia Commons

Add a touch of frost to your winter décor with this silvery-white succulent. Besides having a name that is undeniably fit for the season, angel wings (Senecio candicans) is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. It will stand up well to drier indoor air. In zone 8 and above, you can also grow it outdoors, so consider adding it to festive floral containers on your porch or balcony.

What It Needs: Well-drained, loamy, sandy soil and at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. In winter, allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

Variegated Ficus

Variegate Ficus with triangular leaves on a yellow background. Ficus Triangularis

Image credits: Irisha_S via Shutterstock

For that hit of green and white you crave for the season, pick up a few variegated ficus triangularis (Ficus Triangularis Variegata). Technically, the waxy triangular leaves with gently rounded corners are green and cream. But the effect of this tropical plant from South Africa is just as breathtaking. With a little TLC, it can grow to 6 feet tall.

What It needs: Indirect light, above-average humidity, and houseplant fertilizer in spring and summer. Water well and allow it to dry out — but not too much — between waterings.

Purple Heart

Tradescantia Pallida Purpurea

Image credit: Mokkievia Openverse

Purple heart (Tradescantia Pallida ‘Purpurea’) is an herbaceous plant in the Commelinaceae, or spiderwort, family. This trailing plant is an excellent choice for a seasonal hanging basket. Its lance-shaped, deep-purple leaves can be as long as 7 inches. They point in every direction in a glorious origami-like effect.

Purple heart blooms its pink or purple flowers with yellow stamens mainly from summer to fall, providing added interest. However, they can also pop up unexpectedly throughout the year.

What It Needs: Loamy, moist, well-draining soil with organic matter, and full sun to intensify its color. Cut it back after the blossoms die to keep its fuller shape.

Echeveria

Planting ornamental succulent Echeveria agavoides

Image credits: AlexanderLS via Shutterstock

It's hard not to fall in love with echeveria plants' plump, juicy charm. Some of the most attractive to try as Christmas plants are 'Snow Angel,' 'Copper Rose' and 'Romeo Rubin.'

You might find that a frilly echeveria will add even more flamboyance to your seasonal décor. It has subtle green or splashy red leaves that grow in the shape of a rosette, and it could be mistaken for an ornamental cabbage. One thing is for sure; echeveria exudes a different personality from other Christmas plants you might consider. Give it a chance.

What It Needs: At least six hours of direct sunlight daily and temperatures between 40 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (depending on the time of day and season). In winter, water it once a month (bottom watering is best). If the leaves pucker, you can give it another watering.

American Holly

American Holly Ilex Opaca Christmas Plants with green leaves and red berries

Image credit: esrice via Openverse

American Holly (Ilex opaca) is as seasonal as Santa. Its pollinated female plants have the added attraction of producing brilliant red berries from October to winter. The 'Croonenburg' cultivar, which has male and female flowers, often self-pollinates. 

To get the most out of American holly during the holidays, display it in pots, bouquets, floral arrangements, and tree trimmings. Also, keep children and pets away from its tempting yet toxic berries.

What It Needs: Moist, well-draining, loamy soil, full to partial sun, and between 1 and 2 inches of water weekly.

Christmas Plants Give Joy Year-Round

Including some of these plants in your décor only during the season makes them extra special. However, you don’t have to throw them out once you ring in the new year. You can care for many of them throughout the year.

Ready to bring home Christmas plants with different colors? Share in the comments.