You’ll Never Find My Home Without This One Simple Item (2024)

I wish I was someone who made purchasing a fresh bouquet of flowers part of my weekly routine, but I generally hold off on displaying florals unless I’m entertaining—and I prefer to put those funds toward a decadent coffee drink or two instead, anyway.

That said, I’m all for treating myself to affordable eucalyptus stems, which you can always find incorporated throughout my home. I always purchase mine for roughly $4 at my local Trader Joe’s, but you’ll spot eucalyptus at other grocers and flower shops, too.

Eucalyptus looks lovely when included as part of a bouquet, but the plant is also beautiful on its own. I love displaying it in a clear vase on my bedside table—the scent is amazing and extra calming to inhale first thing in the morning or while falling asleep—but truthfully, the decorative possibilities are endless.

Sometimes, I enjoy weaving a few stems of eucalyptus into my hanging shower caddy to make my rental apartment’s bathroom feel a little more welcoming and spa-like. Not to mention that the combination of eucalyptus and hot water will help clear up stuffy sinuses, which makes this an extra practical choice.

What’s excellent about eucalyptus is that it often lasts much longer than regular blooms—part of my hesitancy to pick up flowers, even inexpensive ones, is that they’ll often only last for a few days. It’s more than okay to keep eucalyptus stems displayed as they start to dry a bit, since the scent will linger for quite awhile.

This winter, I tied a few strands to my live garlands for extra visual interest and texture (and this would be a great way to perk up faux greenery as well). Weave a few pieces through a holiday wreath or garland and be prepared for the compliments to roll in.

I’ll always appreciate an extra nice candle or luxe diffuser, but there’s something special about incorporating a live plant into my space—and lending its naturally restorative properties—that always keeps me coming back for more eucalyptus.