Sure, that flower bouquet may be quite decorative, but consider bringing home something a bit unexpected to help chase away cabin fever.

PEACE LILY

Since the days are shorter in winter, and there are often low levels of sunlight, choosing a plant that tolerates dusky conditions is an important factor. The peace lily (Spathiphyllum group) loves shade, and winter provides its preferred light level.

Treat it right and this glossy-leaved stunner will not only brighten up a dark corner but do so with a bloom as well. Learn more about the peace lily and its care requirements online at The Old Farmer's Almanac.

Note: The peace lily isn't a true lily.

Bonus: The NASA Clean Air Study recommends growing the peace lily indoors to clean the air of formaldehyde, benzene and several other indoor pollutants.

KALANCHOE

"Cheerful" is the perfect word to describe the scallop-edged leaves and clusters of brightly- colored flowers of the kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana). Best of all, this gorgeous, colorful display occurs in winter, in shades of orange, pink, red, yellow and white.

This beauty performs best with lots of light so place it near a south-facing window. Overwatering will kill it, so allow the soil to dry-out between waterings. Learn more about this plant's requirements at the New York Botanical Gardens website.

Note: Parts of the Kalanchoe, especially the flowers, are poisonous to pets and children. If you suspect that your child has ingested the plant, call your medical professional or the American Association of Poison Control Centers, available 24 hours a day, at 800-222-1222. If your pet ingests the plant, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.

Bonus: It's easy to get your kalanchoe to rebloom – follow the walk-through provided by Clemson Extension.

AFRICAN VIOLET

We decided to include the African violet (Saintpaulia spp.) in our list of cabin fever busters because they are so easy to grow and they easily tolerate the warm indoor air in the winter.

In fact, you can help your African violet thrive by keeping indoor temperatures between 65 degrees to 79 degrees Fahrenheit.

If the leaves begin to yellow, the plant may need more sunlight, so move it to a "window with western or southern exposure," and filtered sunlight, recommend the experts at Optimara/Holtkamp Greenhouses, Inc.

Note: Never place the African violet in direct sun as it may burn the foliage.

Bonus: Create new African violets from the leaves of your current plant. Learn how online at Penn State University Extension's website.

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