Contributed by Info Guru Oliver VanDervoort

It is that time of year again when our thoughts turn to trying to find a gift for that special someone.

We want to find a present that will truly show them that we care about them and we want it to be something that stands out. These are relatively simple to shop for but can be wonderful gifts if done right. Here are our top choices for plants that make extraordinary gifts:

10. Amaryllis

The Amaryllis is one of those plants that has an elegant look and feel that brings beauty to any home. The best part is, for this time of year, that the Amaryllis is a flower that is a bit hardier so it doesn’t need summer sun to flourish. But that sturdiness doesn’t come at the cost of its appearance…it’s one of the most beautiful flowers of spring.

9. Cactus

The plant that is largely only found in the wild in the Southwest can be a great present for someone looking to get a little more plant life in their home. The cactus – especially a large, architectural plant – looks like a million bucks and doesn’t require a ton of care. This makes it perfect for people who don’t have the time to worry over their plants morning, noon, and night.

8. Bonsai

A Bonsai plant is another plant that comes from pretty hardy stock. The attraction to this plant is that clipping and grooming the Bonsai plant can be a relaxing, fulfilling hobby. This has been one of the top gift plants for years in the Asian region and has become more popular in the States over the last couple of years.

7. Easter Lilies

While Easter Lilies are usually considered to be a flower that symbolizes spring and … Easter, there is precedent to use them as gifts as well. They are pretty flowers that open wide when they are top bloom. One drawback is they don’t last long but are stunning while they bloom.

6. Poinsettia

Poinsettias are plants that are most often thought of as Christmas flora. This flower is an extraordinary gift for those looking for something to give during the holidays as a house or hostess gift. Look for jaw-dropping giant varieties and interesting color variations, ranging from peach to deep burgundy and white. These are flowers that can handle colder weather quite well.

5. Paper Whites

Paper Whites are another flower that gets a lot of love during this time of year because they don’t need the summer sun to bloom. Plants that can survive colder temperatures are popular as we move into the fall and winter.

4. Sunflower

The Sunflower is an interesting gift for someone, especially this time of year because it can remind them of the spring and summer. This gift will stand out because of its height, dynamic color, and iconic shape.

3. Orchids

Orchids are a popular choice for a gift because they come in so many different looks and feels. If you really want to get someone something that they don’t have to care for and can just enjoy the look, you can even go with the silk version of this ultra-popular flower.

2. Tulips

Tulips have long been considered a traditional and wonderful gift plant because they come in so many different colors. You are going to be hard-pressed to find a tulip that doesn’t fit whoever you are shopping for. Consider giving an assortment of bulbs, which will brighten a Spring garden when planted in the fall, or signing up for a flower of the month club which truly is a gift that keeps on giving.

1. Roses

When thinking about extraordinary gift plants, most people land on roses, and for good reason. A single rose is a thoughtful expression, and a rose bush, especially a specialty variety or unusual color, is a gift every gardener will love.