Top 5 Best Novelty and Character Plant Pots for Fun Decor in 2026
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Last updated: February 20, 2026
If you think plant pots are just boring terracotta cylinders, think again. The world of novelty and character planters has exploded in recent years, offering everything from guitar-strumming face pots to interactive robotic planters that make your houseplant feel like a real pet. These creative containers are perfect for adding personality to your desk, shelf, or garden — and they make unforgettable gifts.
We spent weeks researching and comparing dozens of novelty planters across Amazon, focusing on build quality, drainage, creativity, and overall value. Whether you want a conversation-starting centerpiece or a whimsical accent for your succulent collection, these five picks stand out from the crowd.
Below, you’ll find our top recommendations for 2026, ranging from charming face planters with guitars and rocking chairs to a high-tech robotic planter that responds to touch. Each one has been evaluated for durability, drainage, sizing, and that all-important “fun factor.”
Our Top Picks
Our top pick
- Unique guitar-playing design that works as both planter and decor piece
- Built-in drainage hole prevents overwatering succulents
- Durable resin construction holds up well indoors and outdoors
Cons
- Opening is sized for small succulents only — won’t fit 4-inch pots
- Painted finish may fade with prolonged direct sunlight exposure
The UMESONG Guitar Face Planter is the kind of pot that makes people stop and smile. The little resin figure sits cross-legged, cradling a guitar, with a wide grin that practically begs you to plant a trailing succulent as its “hair.” It’s crafted from solid resin that feels substantial in hand — not flimsy or cheap like many novelty planters.
The drainage hole at the bottom is a welcome inclusion that many decorative planters skip. This means you can plant directly without worrying about root rot, making it genuinely functional and not just a pretty face (pun intended). It’s sized for small succulents like string of pearls, echeveria, or small cacti.
If you’re shopping for a gift for someone who loves both music and plants, this is a slam dunk. It also comes in a pink variant for those who prefer a pop of color. Our only gripe is that the planting area is compact, so stick to smaller plants.
Best for whimsical decor
- Rocking chair design adds a storytelling element to your plant display
- Drainage hole included for healthy root systems
- Detailed sculpting with a cheerful expression that brightens any room
Cons
- Rocking chair base makes it slightly less stable on narrow shelves
- Small planting cavity limits plant selection to mini succulents
This is UMESONG at its most whimsical. The Rocking Chair Face Planter features the same lovable smiley face character, but this time lounging in a miniature rocking chair. Plant a string of pearls or chain of hearts and watch the trailing vines create a natural “blanket” over the figure — it’s genuinely delightful.
Build quality matches the guitar version: solid resin, good weight, and a proper drainage hole. The rocking chair base is wider than it looks, so stability isn’t a real concern on flat surfaces, though we’d avoid placing it right at the edge of a shelf. The sculpted details — from the chair’s curved runners to the figure’s crossed legs — show real attention to craft.
This is one of those planters that earns compliments from every visitor. It’s perfect for a home office desk, bathroom shelf, or kitchen windowsill where you want a little dose of joy. Pair it with the guitar version for an adorable matching set.
Best for tech lovers
- Touch and motion sensors make your plant feel truly interactive and alive
- Built-in Bluetooth speaker plays music while doubling as decor
- Fits standard 4-inch nursery pots for easy plant swapping
Cons
- Premium price point compared to traditional novelty planters
- Requires charging — not a simple set-and-forget planter
- Robotic movements may startle cats and small pets
The PLANTPETZ Robotic Planter is in a completely different league from traditional novelty pots. This isn’t just a cute container — it’s a full interactive experience. Drop your favorite 4-inch potted plant inside, and it comes to life: the planter responds to touch, reacts to motion, dances, and even plays music through its built-in Bluetooth speaker.
The Sequoia Woodgrain finish looks sleek and modern, avoiding the toy-like aesthetic you might expect from a “robotic planter.” It fits naturally on a desk or side table, and the animations are surprisingly charming — a gentle sway when you walk by, a little dance when you touch the plant’s leaves. It bridges the gap between tech gadget and living decor.
The main trade-off is price and maintenance. Unlike a resin planter you can set and forget, PLANTPETZ needs occasional charging. But if you’re the kind of person who names their plants and talks to them, this planter finally lets them “talk” back. It’s an outstanding gift for tech-savvy plant parents.
Best for hanging displays
- Integrated rope hanger makes installation simple with any hook
- Swinging motion adds dynamic visual interest to any space
- Weather-resistant resin works well for covered outdoor areas
Cons
- Can spin freely in wind, which may tangle with nearby plants
- Drainage hole means water drips below — needs a catch tray for indoor use
The UMESONG Swing Face Planter takes the beloved smiley face character and puts it on a swing, dangling from a sturdy rope. It’s designed for hanging, which opens up entirely different display possibilities — think porch overhangs, tree branches, shepherd’s hooks in the garden, or ceiling hooks indoors.
Plant a trailing succulent like string of pearls and the effect is magical: the little face appears to have flowing green hair swaying in the breeze. The rope is thick and well-attached, and we found the resin to be the same solid quality as UMESONG’s other planters. It holds up well in covered outdoor areas, though we’d bring it inside during heavy freezes.
Our one practical note: the drainage hole is great for plant health but means water will drip. If you’re hanging this indoors, place a small tray beneath it or water carefully. For a covered patio or porch, though, it’s absolutely perfect and endlessly charming.
Best for pet lovers
- Large 12.5 x 7.8 inch size fits real potted plants, not just tiny succulents
- Expressive character design with distinct Siamese cat markings
- Lightweight PVC construction makes it easy to move and reposition
Cons
- PVC material feels less premium than resin or ceramic alternatives
- No drainage hole — requires adding pebbles or drilling your own
The strolfay Siamese Cat Planter goes beyond generic animal-shaped pots by giving its cat real character and personality. The Siamese markings are distinctive, the pose is playful, and at 12.5 by 7.8 inches, it’s genuinely large enough to hold a real potted plant — not just a tiny succulent. This makes it far more practical than many novelty planters that sacrifice function for form.
Being made from PVC rather than resin or ceramic, it’s noticeably lighter. This is a double-edged sword: easy to move around but doesn’t have the premium heft you get from UMESONG’s resin planters. The lack of a drainage hole is our biggest concern, though adding a layer of pebbles at the bottom or carefully drilling a hole solves this easily.
For cat lovers — or anyone who appreciates character-driven decor — this planter delivers personality by the bucketful. It works beautifully as a centerpiece for a kitchen counter, a reading nook accent, or a gift for the friend who can never have enough cat-themed things in their life.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Novelty Plant Pot
Drainage Matters More Than You Think
The biggest mistake people make with novelty planters is ignoring drainage. A pot without a drainage hole can quickly lead to root rot, no matter how cute it looks. Four of our five picks include built-in drainage holes. If your chosen planter doesn’t have one, add a 1-2 inch layer of pebbles at the bottom and water sparingly, or carefully drill your own hole.
Material: Resin vs. PVC vs. Ceramic
Resin planters (like UMESONG’s lineup) offer the best balance of durability, weight, and detail. They hold up well outdoors in covered areas and feel substantial. PVC planters are lighter and more affordable but can feel less premium. Ceramic novelty pots look beautiful but are fragile — one drop and they’re done. For outdoor use, resin is your safest bet.
Size and Plant Compatibility
Most novelty planters are designed for small succulents, cacti, or trailing plants like string of pearls. Before buying, check the actual planting cavity dimensions — the overall pot might look large, but the opening could be tiny. If you want to grow something bigger, look for planters like the strolfay cat that accommodate standard nursery pot sizes.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
While most novelty planters are marketed for both indoor and outdoor use, UV exposure will fade painted finishes over time. For outdoor placement, choose a covered area like a porch or patio. For full sun exposure, look for UV-resistant finishes or plan to bring them inside during peak summer months.
Gift-Giving Considerations
Novelty planters make exceptional gifts because they’re both decorative and functional. The UMESONG guitar planter is perfect for musicians, the PLANTPETZ robotic planter suits tech enthusiasts, and the strolfay cat planter is ideal for pet lovers. For the best presentation, gift them pre-planted with a low-maintenance succulent that’s ready to enjoy immediately.





