Experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have put together a list of perfect, low maintenance Christmas centrepieces and scents.
They’ve looked at varieties including traditional festive foliage choices like poinsettia, holly, and rosemary, all the way to unusual blooms like the Christmas cactus, desert roses and African violets.

. Red Lion (Amaryllis)
The massive, six-pointed amaryllis bloom makes an impressive festive decoration and a support stake will be handy for keeping big blooms upright. Plant the bulbs no later than the beginning of November and keep the soil moist, but not drenched. When flowering, the bright red blooms will enjoy a semi-cool, humid spot in the home with bright, indirect light and plenty of moisture. In spring, return the plant to a sunny area and water well. Photo: third party

. Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima)
Poinsettias are a pretty, bright plant that is widely grown indoors over Christmas for their beautiful, red bracts. They should only be watered once the compost has begun to dry out. Overwatering poinsettias can really damage the plant, instead, regularly misting the plant with a spray bottle is beneficial, especially when flowering. Photo: third party

5. Holly (Ilex)
This Christmas classic is a symbol of eternal life and fertility. Back in the day, people believed that hanging the plant in homes would bring good luck and protection. When grown in the home, holly will thrive in moist soil positioned in slight suntraps. However, they aren’t just limited to December along with the decorations, they make a lovely year-round houseplant. Photo: third party

6. African violets (Saintpaulia)
Whilst these aren’t the easiest plant to look after, they are blooming gorgeous. They take up a small amount of space in the home and can make a delightful display when a few are bunched together. African violet plants should be watered when the soil doesn’t feel moist with lukewarm or tepid water which has been left to stand for 48 hours. These fussy flowers will be well worth the beautiful blooms that come during colder climates. Photo: third party