Even though it’s still chilly here in Illinois—especially once the sun goes down—spring has definitely started showing up at Home Depot. I stopped by my local store recently, and while most of the plants were still cozied up inside, there was no shortage of color and life. A few hardy pansies and violas braved the outdoor tables, but the real magic was indoors. What surprised me most? The selection felt so much more special than the usual early-spring lineup. There were vibrant, unusual succulents I hadn’t seen at this store before, plus the most gorgeous display of orchids. It felt like a little tropical escape tucked into the garden center. So I took my time wandering through, picking out plants that felt fresh, fun, and worth bringing home.
Blue-Tinted Phalaenopsis Orchid ($24.98)
Priced at $24.98, it's a Phalaenopsis (or "moth orchid") with delicate white petals that blush into soft purples and cool-toned blues. The color shift is almost watercolor-like, with some blooms showing hints of teal and violet near the center. These do best in indirect light and like to dry out a bit between waterings—perfect if you want a dramatic plant that’s actually low-maintenance. I’d totally gift one of these, too. They feel special and a little unexpected compared to the usual orchid colors.
Hoya Heart in a Speckled Ceramic Pot ($9.98)
I couldn't resist this little guy! For $9.98, this Hoya Heart (also known as Hoya kerrii) is basically the plant version of a love note. Each one features a single, thick, heart-shaped leaf with beautiful variegation. It's tucked into a turquoise speckled ceramic pot, complete with a layer of white stones and a mossy top that makes it feel like a tiny, living sculpture. The tag says it thrives in bright light, prefers to stay moderately dry, and is happiest in 60–70°F temps—basically ideal for a cozy windowsill or desktop. I’ve had one of these before, and they’re super low-maintenance. Just don’t overwater (seriously—it's a succulent at heart), and it’ll keep its sweet shape for ages.
'Nightly' Fittonia from Proven Winners ($4.98)
Tiny but not subtle, this 'Nightly' Fittonia (aka nerve plant) from Proven Winners’ leafjoy littles™ line is a show-off in the best way.The pink veining is bold and electric, especially against the deep green leaf base—it almost looks painted. These little guys are perfect for terrariums, small shelves, or adding texture to your houseplant mix. Fittonias love humidity and consistent moisture, so I’d keep this one somewhere like a kitchen or bathroom if you can—or just mist it now and then like I do when mine starts to look dramatic.
Neon Pothos Hanging Basket ($16.98)
This 8" hanging basket from Vigoro is packed with bright, lime-green neon pothos, and at $16.98, it's a generous, lush option if you're looking to add serious color to your indoor jungle. The leaves are that perfect chartreuse shade that glows in natural light—super eye-catching and a fun twist on the standard pothos.
Lemon Lime Philodendron ($16.98)
I love that these plants come ready to hang, and it's already trailing a bit, which means it’ll start giving that drapey, cascading vibe pretty quickly. These are super low-fuss plants that thrive in medium light and don’t mind if you forget a watering or two. I always keep mine near a window and it just does its thing—growing fast, looking happy.
Firestick Euphorbia in Grower Pot ($24.98)
At $24.98, this Euphorbia tirucalli—also known as Firestick or Pencil Cactus—is a bold pick for anyone who wants a plant with major visual interest. Its coral-like, finger-thin branches shoot up and out in all directions, creating a striking, almost architectural shape. Right now, it's mostly green, but with enough sunlight, the tips can blush into orange or red, which is where it gets the “firestick” name. It comes in a plain black grower’s pot, ready for you to dress up with a ceramic cover or drop into a decorative planter. Just keep in mind—it’s technically a succulent, so it likes lots of light and barely-there watering.
Fuzzy Prickly Pear Cactus ($24.98)
This Prickly Pear cactus (Opuntia monacantha) instantly caught my eye for its wild texture. The green pads are covered in soft-looking, silvery spines that almost give it a fuzzy appearance—though definitely not something you want to pet! It’s got that sculptural, desert-modern look that feels straight out of a Palm Springs patio setup. It comes in a basic black grower pot, ready for a stylish upgrade. If you’re into low-maintenance plants that still make a big visual impact, this is a solid pick. Just give it a bright light and let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
Jade Plant in Taupe Pot ($12.98)
This jade plant (Crassula ovata) is the kind of solid, dependable houseplant that just works in any setup. The chunky, oval-shaped leaves have a glossy finish and a hint of red edging when they get enough sun—such a satisfying, clean look. It came in a neutral taupe plastic pot, simple but sturdy enough to keep it upright as it fills out. Jades are super beginner-friendly and actually prefer a little neglect. Bright light and well-drained soil are all they really need, and they can go a while between waterings.
2.5" Grafted Moon Cactus ($5.98)
At just $5.98, these colorful grafted moon cacti are one of the most cheerful, low-effort additions you can make to a windowsill. The bright neon tops—ranging from red to orange to yellow—are actually Gymnocalycium cacti grafted onto a hardy green base cactus. These come in tiny 2.5" pots and don’t ask for much—bright indirect light, minimal watering, and you're good. I love picking up a few of these at once to mix and match colors on a tray or scatter them between books and candles on a shelf.
Grafted Cactus Rainbow Assortment ($5.98 each)
Seeing them all together like this? Instant mood booster. These 2.5" grafted Gymnocalycium cacti come in just about every color—sunny yellow, coral orange, hot pink, and deep red. At $5.98 each, they’re budget-friendly enough to grab a few and mix them up for a happy little lineup on a windowsill or shelf. Pair them with some mini pots or pop them into a shallow planter for a clustered arrangement that looks way more curated than the price suggests.
Decorative Flower Top Cacti ($5.98)
These quirky little guys are $5.98 each and bring the fun to cactus shopping. Each pot features a different variety—barrel, globular, or column-shaped—topped with a brightly colored faux flower in neon red, yellow, orange, pink, or purple. While the blooms aren’t real, the cacti themselves are, and they’re super low-maintenance—just bright light, occasional watering, and done. They’re great for desks, dorm rooms, or anywhere you want a little cheer without the upkeep. I’d grab a few and group them for a cheerful display that feels way more playful than your average succulent setup.
3.5" Assorted Cactus 2-Pack ($12.98)
For $12.98, this 3.5" cactus from Smart Planet is such a good deal if you're looking to double up on desert charm. Each comes with a unique mix of cacti—some tall and ribbed, others short and clustered, all covered in an impressive variety of spines, textures, and patterns. They’re housed in basic black nursery pots, but honestly, they're just asking to be repotted into something cute. I’d split the pair between two mini planters or group them with other succulents for a low-maintenance centerpiece.
Kosmik Kaktus Painted Succulents ($6.98)
These Kosmik Kaktus succulents are definitely not your average houseplant. Each one is coated in bold, vivid hues—think fiery orange, neon pink, deep violet, and even cosmic purples. They’re not naturally that color (they’re painted), but the effect is seriously fun regardless. They come in 11 oz. nursery pots and are still living plants underneath, so they need the usual succulent care—bright light, well-draining soil, and minimal watering.
10" Cordyline Fruticosa ($19.98)
This Cordyline Fruticosa is one of the most eye-catching, dramatic plants I saw on the shelves. Its long, glossy leaves are a stunning mix of hot pink, deep burgundy, and olive green, with some subtle freckling on the older leaves that adds texture without taking away from the color. This one came in a plain black nursery pot, but it's tall and full enough to feel like a true statement piece right out of the gate. I’d love to see this in a bright ceramic planter on a sun-drenched patio (once it's warm enough!) or indoors near a big window. It loves humidity and warmth, so it’ll thrive once the weather catches up with your plant goals.
12" Majesty Palm ($44.98)
These towering tropical beauties bring that lush, breezy vibe into any space with their long, feather-like fronds and full, fountain-like silhouette. They were taking over a whole corner of the garden section, and honestly, they made me forget it was still cold outside in Illinois. This is one of those plants that instantly transforms a space—whether you’re styling a living room, entryway, or covered patio. It’s labeled for medium light and likes its soil to stay moist (but not soggy). Just keep it out of drafts and give it some humidity if your air is dry, and it’ll thrive. Personally, I’d drop this into a big, decorative planter and let it live its best tropical life by the window.
Classic White Phalaenopsis Orchid ($14.98)
This delicate white Phalaenopsis orchid is a total steal at $14.98. It’s locally grown by United Central Orchid in Mendota, IL, which is such a nice bonus when you want to shop a little closer to home. The creamy white petals have a hint of buttery yellow in the throat, and the whole thing is packaged simply in a clear sleeve—perfect for gifting or treating yourself to something serene and elegant. It’s a little more understated than the vivid blue variety we saw earlier, but just as gorgeous in its own way. These do best in bright, indirect light and need just a light touch when watering. Bonus: they bloom for weeks and look way more high-maintenance than they actually are.
Large Double-Stemmed Orchid – Magenta ($29.98)
This bold magenta orchid is part of the premium lineup at Home Depot, priced at $29.98—and it earns every bit of it. With two full stems absolutely loaded with blooms, it’s the kind of statement piece that could anchor a dining table or elevate a shelf in one effortless swoop. The color is rich and saturated, with deep pink-purple tones that almost glow through the plastic sleeve. Like the smaller version, this one is also locally grown by United Central Orchid in Mendota, IL, which I love seeing on the label. You get all the elegance and longevity of a Phalaenopsis, but in an upgraded size that feels luxe without veering into splurge territory.
Smart Planet Succulent Garden in Ceramic Dish
These Smart Planet succulent gardens are such an easy win. Each one comes pre-potted in a pastel ceramic dish—pink, green, or cream—and is packed with a mix of plump, colorful succulents. From rosettes to jelly bean shapes, there’s a perfect little mix of textures and tones in every bowl. These make awesome gifts, but I also love them as centerpieces or shelf accents when you want greenery without the upkeep. Succulents are super chill—just a sunny spot and a light watering now and then. I didn’t spot the price tag, but these usually run under $20, and they honestly look way more curated than their price suggests.
Easy Bloom™ White Anthurium ($19.98)
This Easy Bloom™ Anthurium comes in at $19.98 and brings an elegant, clean look with its creamy white “blooms” (technically spathes!) and glossy deep green leaves. It’s potted in a minimalist white planter that feels gift-ready or just perfect for a bright spot at home. The tag says “bright light,” which tracks with how mine has done best—right near a sunny window but not in direct sun. What I love about this one is how it adds color without needing flowers in the traditional sense. I’ve found Anthuriums to be solid long-term plants with a surprisingly long bloom cycle, and this one’s shape and neutral palette are extra versatile.
Easy Bloom™ Dark Anthurium ($19.98)
Also priced at $19.98, this Easy Bloom™ Anthurium comes in a dramatic deep burgundy, and it might be my favorite of the bunch. The glossy, almost black-purple spathes have an elegant, moody vibe, especially when paired with the dark green foliage and white planters. Just like the white variety, it thrives in bright, indirect light and needs consistent moisture. I love the idea of mixing the two side by side for contrast, or letting the dark one shine solo as a sculptural moment.
Kosmik Kaktus Barrel Cactus Assortment ($6.98)
These $6.98 Kosmik Kaktus barrel cacti look like they’ve been plucked straight from a sci-fi garden. Dyed in shades of electric blue, hot pink, and deep purple, they’re absolutely unapologetic about their literal glow-up. The label notes that the color doesn’t harm the plant and that future growth will come in naturally—so the fun is temporary but still totally worth it for the vibe. They're perfect if you’re going for quirky, colorful, and low-effort. Just give them bright light and a tiny bit of water every few weeks, and they’ll chill happily on a windowsill or desk. I kind of love the idea of lining up a whole row of them as a color-blocked centerpiece—space camp, but make it chic.
String of Raindrops Hanging Plant ($12.98)
This String of Raindrops (Senecio hybrid) is a delicate, draping dream. Each little leaf looks like a glossy green teardrop, and they trail so effortlessly over the edge of the pot. I spotted a tiny yellow bloom on one of them, which just made it even more special—like it was showing off a bit for spring. It comes in a plastic hanging pot, making it perfect for a sunny window or to suspend in a plant corner that needs some spill and softness. It thrives with bright indirect light and barely-there watering, so it’s a great pick for succulent lovers who want that romantic trailing look without much fuss.
Smart Planet 2.5" Cactus & Succulent Deal – 4 for $10
If you love a good plant bargain, this one’s calling your name. Starting March 20, 2025, Home Depot had Smart Planet’s 2.5" cacti and succulents on sale at 4 for $10, which comes out to just $2.50 each—way better than the regular $2.98 price tag. The variety was solid, too: everything from chunky green echeverias to colorful jelly bean succulents, all in neat little nursery pots. I’d totally grab a tray of these to build your own dish garden or spread them around in mini planters. They’re also amazing for party favors and gifting, or if you’re just starting your succulent obsession and want a sampler.
Flowering Kalanchoe Assortment ($5.98)
These flowering kalanchoes are such a bright, happy steal. Each pot is packed with clusters of mini, rose-like blooms in vivid colors—hot pink, yellow, orange—set against thick, velvety green leaves. They were displayed alongside the cacti but definitely brought their own burst of spring energy to the mix. These make great low-maintenance gifts or small-space floral pops since they’re technically succulents, just with bonus blooms. Group a few of them in mismatched planters or use one to liven up a windowsill that needs a little more joy.
Vigoro 6" Ficus Ginseng ($14.98)
For $14.98, the Vigoro 6" Ficus Ginseng delivers big bonsai energy without the fuss. Its thick, sculptural roots look like something from a fantasy forest, and the glossy oval leaves give it a tidy, polished vibe that works in any corner. It’s labeled as a medium light houseplant and loves moderately moist soil. I’ve had one of these for years, and it’s surprisingly chill—just keep it away from cold drafts and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. If you want something a little quirky but still easy to manage, this is such a solid pick. Plus, no two trunks are the same, which makes every plant feel a bit like a living sculpture.
Vigoro 6" Monstera ($14.98)
This 6-inch Monstera is a total classic—and at $14.98, it's a sweet entry point if you’ve been meaning to add one to your plant fam. The broad, glossy green leaves are already showing off that signature Monstera drama, and you can see younger leaves getting ready to unfurl and join the party. It's not climbing your walls yet, but it definitely brings that lush tropical vibe. It’s tagged as a medium light houseplant, so it’s pretty flexible—just avoid harsh direct sun.
Money Tree with Braided Trunk ($14.98)
This 6" Money Tree is such a classic and cheerful houseplant—especially with that eye-catching braided trunk! At $14.98, it feels like you're getting both a lucky charm and a living sculpture in one. The thick, glossy leaves reach upward from the top of that iconic twisted base, which adds a fun architectural touch to any shelf or windowsill. I love how compact it is—perfect for a small space that could use a dose of vibrant green. And the fact that it’s labeled for medium light and moderate watering makes it pretty manageable if you’re still working on your green thumb.
Variegated Rubber Plant in Woven Basket ($34.98)
Okay, this one absolutely stole my heart. For $34.98, this "Luxury Tropical" variegated rubber plant makes a serious statement. It’s the kind of plant that could anchor a room, thanks to those stunning creamy yellow and sage green leaves with watercolor-like streaks. The upright growth gives it a structured, sculptural look, and I love how the slightly glossy leaves catch the light just right. What makes this piece even better? The woven basket-style planter it comes in is textured, neutral, and just earthy enough to complement the bold foliage without competing with it.
Bonnie Plants Dill Herb ($15.98)
If you're into herbs (or just love the idea of snipping fresh greens right from your windowsill), this lush pot of dill is a fantastic find at $15.98. It’s from Bonnie Plants—one of those dependable nursery brands—and comes already thriving in a roomy white pot that’s clean and classic enough to sit on your kitchen counter or patio table. The feathery fronds are bright and bushy, with that wispy, delicate texture that makes dill so charming. And honestly, it smells amazing up close—like a fresh summer breeze with a hint of lemony brightness.
Bonnie Plants Rhubarb ‘Victoria’ ($9.98)
If you're dreaming of homemade rhubarb pie or tart-sweet compote straight from the backyard, this Bonnie Plants rhubarb is your moment. This ‘Victoria’ variety is an heirloom classic known for producing those bright red, juicy stalks. The leaves are big, healthy, and already lush, which is a good sign this perennial is ready to thrive. Just a heads up—only the stalks are edible (the leaves are not), but once you get a good crop going, you'll have enough for baking, preserving, and maybe even gifting a few bundles. I’ve grown this one before, and it gets better year after year. All it really wants is some sunshine and well-draining soil.
6-Pack Landscape Pansy ($4.98)
There’s something so cheerful about pansies, and at $4.98 for a 6-pack, this is such an easy win for brightening up your garden beds or containers. The vivid yellow blooms in this set are the kind that pops instantly—even from the curb. They’re already full and blooming with tons of buds ready to open, so you’ll get an instant color boost that just keeps going. Each plant is compact but sturdy, with lush green foliage and strong stems that can hold their own in cooler temps. Mix these with other shades (I spotted some purples and whites just underneath!) for a little springtime patchwork effect. Full sun is ideal, but even with a bit of shade they’ll keep on thriving.
12" Classic Color Bowl ($16.98)
This 12-inch Classic Color Bowl is basically a plug-and-play flower arrangement for your porch or patio—and for $16.98, it’s doing a lot of heavy lifting in the charm department. It’s packed full of a rainbow of pansies in deep violet, pastel lavender, crisp white, soft yellow, and even a few rusty reds peeking through. The blooms are layered and lush, overflowing the container in the best way. What I especially love is how balanced the mix is—there’s no odd patchiness, just a dense, cheerful blend that looks good from every angle.
Viola ‘Endurio’ Hanging Basket ($12.98)
This hanging basket is packed with tiny, cheerful blooms in a vivid mix of purples, yellows, and deep magentas—all for $12.98. The flowers are dainty but bold, and I love how full and trailing the plants are, spilling over the edges in every direction. These would be perfect for a sunny balcony or porch railing where you want instant color and charm. Grab a couple to frame a front door—they’re such happy little eye-catchers!
A Plant Lover’s Playground
Whether you're after a low-maintenance cactus with a pop of color, a lush tropical for your living room, or a vibrant seasonal bloom for your patio, this plant section is seriously delivered. I was surprised by how much variety I spotted—from quirky little succulents to full-on statement floor plants—and the price points were honestly pretty reasonable across the board. My personal favorite? That Viola ‘Endurio’ hanging basket. It’s just the kind of cheerful color bomb I love seeing when I step outside. If you're planning a plant haul soon, this selection has something for every kind of plant parent—aspiring or seasoned. Let me know which one you'd take home!