They notice the details. The curve of a shell on their morning walk along the shore. The pattern of lichen spreading across bark. While others rush past, they pause—bending down to examine a seedpod, pocketing a smooth stone, photographing the delicate architecture of a dried stem against snow.

These are the naturalists—the quiet observers, the collectors of small wonders, the ones who understand that nature isn't just something you visit on weekends but a language spoken in textures, forms, and the patient unfurling of growth. Their homes reflect this: vases holding a single branch, windowsills lined with found objects, surfaces that blur the line between inside and out.

Finding gifts for naturalists means honoring their eye for simplicity and their appreciation for things shaped by time—whether by waves on a beach, hands at a potter's wheel, or roots reaching through soil. These gifts celebrate bringing nature indoors.

WHY THEY'LL LOVE IT:

Each of these vases began as a stone tumbling in New England surf, sculpted smooth by decades of waves and weather. A maker drills a single opening, transforming a found object into a vase without erasing what nature already perfected. Every vase shows its history in color and marking, from grey granite flecked with quartz to smooth slate striped with ancient sediment. They're as beautiful empty as they are filled.

THE DETAILS:

Handcrafted in Maine from stones collected along riverbanks and beaches throughout the coast. Available in Little, Medium, Large, and a set of three. Save 10% when purchased as a set of three—perfect for creating arrangements at varying heights. No two stones are identical in color, texture, or markings.

PERFECT FOR:

The beachcomber, the hiker who returns with pockets full of stones, anyone whose shelves already hold collected treasures from nature walks. Ideal for minimalists who appreciate one perfect thing over many decorative objects. Consider pairing with dried botanicals or a bundle of local foraged branches. Or gift the set of three for maximum impact.

HOW TO USE / STYLE:

Display them empty as sculptural objects—their forms alone tell stories, or fill with a single dramatic stem, like dried pampas grass or quince blossoms. They work beautifully grouped on a mantel or windowsill, varying in height and stone color. Because they're watertight, fresh flowers work too, though somehow dried and preserved botanicals feel more in keeping with their elemental nature. Place where morning light catches the stone's surface variations.

We also love: Beach Stone Ikebana Vase

WHY THEY'LL LOVE IT:

Whimsy doesn't have to mean frivolous. Hand-thrown by renowned potter Eric Bonnin, these zoomorphic vases bring a playful presence to any space—sculptural enough to stand alone, functional enough to hold water and stems. The sleek finish is sophisticated, and the bird form is stylized rather than literal, walking the perfect line between representation and abstraction.

THE DETAILS:

Each vase is individually formed and finished. The bird shape is both vessel and sculpture—the opening at the top (the "beak") holds stems while the body provides weight and presence. Available in three sizes, and also available in white for those who prefer a lighter palette or want to mix vases for contrast.

PERFECT FOR:

The ceramics collector, the bird watcher, anyone who appreciates objects that spark joy without being precious. Those who love handmade pottery and understand that functional objects can be art. Consider pairing black and white versions together. Add dried grasses or a few stems from the garden for a complete gift.

HOW TO USE / STYLE:

Create a group by arranging multiple sizes together, varying the heights so beaks point in different directions—this creates movement and conversation between the pieces. They work beautifully on dining tables, console tables, mantels, or bookshelves. Use them for single-stem arrangements (one peony, a branch of forsythia, dried wheat) or leave them empty as pure sculpture. The finish makes them surprisingly versatile—they work with both neutral and colorful interiors. Position them where people will want to pick them up; part of their charm is the tactile experience.

We also love: Vintage Wood Jug Vase

WHY THEY'LL LOVE IT:

These hand-cast brass frogs are the secret to arrangements that look effortless but stay exactly where you want them. Just brass, water, and whatever you're arranging. The satisfying heft when you pick one up tells you these are serious tools. Three configurations offer different options, including a single opening for propagating cuttings or forcing bulbs, three openings for simple ikebana statements or thicker stems, and multiple openings for fuller arrangements.

THE DETAILS:

We designed these frogs to fit our Ikebana vases perfectly, though they work beautifully in other vessels too, including simple Mason jars. Each frog provides stability and control without any mechanics beyond the openings themselves. The brass weight keeps everything anchored, even when you're working with top-heavy branches.

PERFECT FOR:

The flower arranger ready to graduate beyond basic vases, anyone interested in ikebana or Japanese floral design, propagation enthusiasts who root cuttings. Consider pairing with: Ivory Ikebana Vases for a complete starter system, or bundle all three frog styles together so they have options for any arrangement type.

HOW TO USE / STYLE:

Drop the frog into your vessel, add water, and insert stems through the openings—they stay exactly where you place them. Works in any container with a flat bottom and sufficient depth.

WHY THEY'LL LOVE IT:

A Bloomist exclusive design with a modern sensibility in classical form, these ivory ceramic vases do more than hold water—they create possibility. The clean lines and neutral glaze make them endlessly versatile: fill with seasonal flowers, add a brass frog for ikebana arrangements, use for propagating cuttings, or force spring bulbs and branches in winter. The wide, stable base ensures even top-heavy arrangements stay balanced.

THE DETAILS:

The ivory glaze is warm and neutral, working with any interior palette, with multiple size options available. The wide mouth accommodates brass frogs perfectly for controlled stem placement. The proportions are carefully calculated for stability; the weight distribution means your arrangements won't tip, even when you're working with tall branches or asymmetrical compositions.

PERFECT FOR:

The plant parent interested in propagation, and anyone who forces bulbs indoors during winter. Those building a collection of versatile, well-designed vessels. Consider pairing with brass frogs to unlock the full potential of these vases, or bundle with spring bulbs (paperwhites, hyacinth) ready for forcing.

HOW TO USE / STYLE:

Use them as traditional flower vases with armfuls of seasonal blooms. Add brass frogs for precise ikebana work—the wide opening and low profile make them ideal for horizontal arrangements and dramatic branch work. In winter, force bulbs or branches (forsythia, quince, pussy willow) by placing stems in water and waiting for spring to arrive early. Propagate favorite cuttings, watching roots develop through the water. The neutral ivory works for modern interiors, traditional homes, and anywhere you want vessels that support rather than compete with what you're displaying.

WHY THEY'LL LOVE IT:

Some plants whisper. This one makes an entrance. The asymmetrical leaves—sweeping, wing-like, impossible to ignore—feature graphic silvery spots on top and deep scarlet underneath. Unlike most spotted begonias, this particular cultivar (Begonia maculata 'Wightii') produces clusters of greenish-white flowers with yellow centers, adding another layer of interest to an already extraordinary plant.

THE DETAILS:

Ships potted in a white terracotta pot with a matching tray and arrives approximately 9-12" tall; plants may be smaller than photographed, but eager to grow. Cane-type begonias are among the easiest begonias to grow—tropical natives that thrive in temperatures between 65-70°F with moderate humidity. All potted plants ship within 7-10 days, weather permitting.

PERFECT FOR:

The plant collector seeking something special, the naturalist drawn to graphic, architectural foliage. Anyone who appreciates plants that look as good in winter as summer—this is year-round interest. Consider pairing with: a decorative plant stand to elevate and showcase those stunning leaves.

HOW TO USE / STYLE:

Place in bright, indirect light—near an east or west window works beautifully. The silvery spots on the leaves catch and reflect light, creating shimmer and movement. Position where you can appreciate both the spotted upper surface and scarlet underside (lower leaves reveal their burgundy backs beautifully). Needs moderate humidity—mist occasionally or place on a pebble tray with water. Let soil dry slightly between waterings; these aren't fussy but don't like wet feet. As the plant matures and grows taller, it develops that characteristic cane structure that gives this type of begonia its name. Repot when roots emerge from the moss ball.

WHY THEY'LL LOVE IT:

Beyond the symbolism (good luck, prosperity, intertwined fortune), this plant simply makes sense for naturalists: it's resilient, easy to care for, sculptural in form, and actually functions as an air purifier. The braided trunk is a type of bonsai—not a natural form but one carefully cultivated over time, which somehow makes it more interesting. It's the plant for people who want something alive and beautiful without the high-maintenance drama.

THE DETAILS:

Pachira aquatica, commonly called the Money Tree or Pachira plant. Ships potted in its grower's pot covered with moss, set into a small white terracotta planter with matching tray. The braided trunk is created by weaving young plants together—a living sculpture that continues growing and developing character over the years.

PERFECT FOR:

Housewarming gifts, new homeowners, and anyone starting or expanding a plant collection. The symbolism of prosperity and good fortune makes it meaningful for new beginnings—new homes, new jobs, new chapters. Consider pairing with a plant care guide, a classic Haws watering can, or a complementary planter for when they're ready to repot.

HOW TO USE / STYLE:

Place in bright, indirect light—a few feet from a south or west window is ideal. Water when the top inch of soil is dry, allowing complete drainage (these don't like sitting in water). The braided trunk is the focal point, so give it space rather than crowding it with other plants. Works beautifully on desks, side tables, plant stands, or floor placement in larger sizes. As it grows, you can shape it with light pruning or simply let it develop its natural form. The combination of sculptural trunk and lush green canopy creates year-round visual interest. Pet-safe, so naturalists with curious cats or dogs can display without worry.

WHY THEY'LL LOVE IT:

This is a plant with a sunny disposition. Native to the West Indies and South America, it grows wild as an epiphyte on trees and as ground cover on forest floors. That adaptability translates to easy care: it wants warmth, enjoys water, and trails beautifully as it matures. Low maintenance, hardy, and genuinely cheerful in appearance. For naturalists who love plants that look happy to be alive.

THE DETAILS:

Peperomia glabella (also cubensis), a trailing variety with glossy, rounded leaves on delicate stems. Ships potted, covered with moss, set in a white terracotta planter with matching tray. It's adapted to growing on trees, which means it doesn't need deep soil and thrives with good drainage. All potted plants ship within 7-10 days, weather permitting.

PERFECT FOR:

The plant parent who wants greenery that cascades and flows, anyone with limited space who wants vertical interest through trailing growth. Ideal for bright bathrooms, kitchen windowsills, or hanging displays.

HOW TO USE / STYLE:

Place in bright, indirect light—it tolerates lower light but grows more vigorously with good illumination. Allow it to trail over the edge of tables, shelves, or plant stands. As it grows, those trailing stems create living curtains of glossy foliage. Water when the soil surface feels dry; as an epiphyte, it's adapted to periods between rain. The rounded leaves catch light beautifully, creating dimension and movement. Works wonderfully in bathrooms where ambient humidity keeps it happy. For maximum impact, place where the trails can cascade freely—on elevated surfaces, in hanging planters, or on tall plant stands where the growth can be appreciated from below.

WHY THEY'LL LOVE IT:

"Functional, tactile, beautiful." That's the promise, and these porcelain vessels deliver on all three. Cast from original hand-thrown pieces by DBO Home, the Bare collection strips away texture to focus entirely on form and glaze. The Snowflake glaze is a warm white satin finish with gentle, sparkly sheen, exactly as the name suggests. You might see organic specks; those aren't defects but signatures of the handmade process. Made to order, taking approximately 15 business days from firing to shipping.

THE DETAILS:

Each glaze is developed in-house and mixed in small quantities regularly. The Snowflake glaze offers a warm white finish with subtle sparkle and variations in sheen—some areas matte, others glossier, depending on application thickness. Porcelain is the strongest clay body—chip resistant and impervious to liquids, ideal for daily use. No two pieces are identical due to the handmade nature.

PERFECT FOR:

The ceramics collector, the minimalist who prizes form and glaze quality, anyone building a collection of vessels that work as both art and utility. Those willing to wait for something made specifically for them. Consider pairing with the Mussel glaze version for contrast, or bundle with a selection of ikebana tools if they're interested in floral arrangement.

HOW TO USE / STYLE:

These do double (or more) duty as vases for flowers, holders for kitchen utensils, cache pots for favorite plants, or low vessels for ikebana when paired with a frog. The small size is perfectly proportioned for low centerpieces, bedside arrangements, or desktop displays. The Snowflake glaze works with everything—neutral enough to recede when needed, beautiful enough to stand alone empty. Place where you'll touch it regularly; the porcelain feels substantial and smooth in hand. Group multiple Bare Vessels in different sizes and glazes for a curated collection that feels cohesive but not matchy.