Must-Have Holiday Plants

Delicate Orchids

Moth orchids will bloom year after year in pots on windowsills, and household temperatures suit them fine. Phalaenopsis flowers (shown here) come in an assortment of colors; some have spots, stripes, or weblike patterns, but all are gorgeous.

These easygoing orchids are sold in 4-inch pots for $15 to $75 each. Choose a plant with at least two pairs of leaves whose flowers are just starting to open. Display in bright, indirect light (an east window is usually perfect) out of drafts.