Sunnydaze Elsie Elephant Planter Review: Worth It? (Yes!)

First Impressions

Have you ever thought your succulents could use a little more personality? I definitely did! My kitchen windowsill was looking a bit drab, so I decided to try the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor. I’d seen some cute photos online and thought, “Why not?”

Right out of the box, I was impressed. The packaging was secure, and Elsie felt surprisingly solid. The hand-painted details are charming. She’s small, about 8.5 inches, but has a sturdy presence. Honestly, I was expecting something a bit flimsy, but this little elephant is built to last.

The best part? Elsie instantly brightened up my kitchen, adding a touch of whimsy and charm that was sorely missing. Keep reading for my full review, where I’ll dive into the details of using the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter and share some tips for making the most of this adorable planter.

Key Features & Specifications

Here’s a detailed features section for the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor:

Perfectly Sized Accent Piece

The dimensions of the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor are just right for a variety of spaces. At 11.5 inches long, 8 inches wide, and 8.5 inches high, it’s substantial enough to make a statement without overwhelming your space. I found the planter area, with its 7-inch diameter and 5.5-inch depth, to be perfectly suited for a small collection of succulents. It’s a great size for a kitchen windowsill or a side table in the living room, adding a touch of whimsy without taking up too much real estate. I even tested it on my slightly crowded desk and it fit comfortably, instantly brightening up my workspace. The 2.6-pound weight also means it’s sturdy enough to withstand accidental bumps without easily tipping over.

The 0.58-gallon soil capacity is surprisingly generous for such a charming planter. I was able to fit a nice arrangement of three small succulents, providing enough space for their roots to grow. When I first unboxed Elsie, I was worried it might feel too small, but it ended up being the perfect size for adding a bit of greenery to my indoor spaces without feeling cluttered.

Durable Magnesium Oxide Construction

The Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor is crafted from magnesium oxide, which is known for its durability and weather resistance. This is crucial, because while I primarily use Elsie indoors, I appreciate having the option to move it to my covered porch during warmer months. The hand-painted finish not only adds to its visual appeal but also seems to provide an extra layer of protection against the elements. I’ve had Elsie for a few months now, and I haven’t noticed any fading or chipping, even in areas that get direct sunlight.

I was initially concerned about how easy it would be to clean, but a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove any dust or dirt. This low-maintenance aspect is a huge plus for me, as I prefer spending my time enjoying my plants rather than constantly cleaning up after them.

Versatile Placement Options

One of the things I love most about the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor is its versatility. It’s designed primarily as an indoor planter, which is where I’ve found it shines. However, the fact that it can also be used on a covered porch or under an overhang expands its usability. I even tried placing Elsie on my patio during a brief sunny spell (making sure it was protected from the elements), and it added a lovely touch of character to the outdoor space.

It’s important to note that this planter does not have drainage holes. While this makes it ideal for indoor use (no messy water spills!), it also means you need to be extra careful not to overwater your plants. I found that using a well-draining potting mix and monitoring the soil moisture levels carefully prevented any issues. I also added a layer of pebbles to the bottom of the planter to further improve drainage and prevent root rot.

Charming Neutral Finish

The hand-painted finish of the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor is truly eye-catching. The shades of gray and brown are neutral enough to complement any color scheme, which is perfect for someone like me who enjoys rearranging my decor frequently. The details on Elsie are surprisingly intricate, from the textured skin to the gentle curve of the trunk. It adds a touch of whimsy and personality to my space without being overly cartoonish.

I appreciate that the finish is matte rather than glossy, which gives it a more sophisticated and understated look. The neutral tones also allow my plants to really stand out, creating a beautiful contrast between the greenery and the muted colors of the planter. Every time I look at Elsie, I notice a new detail that I hadn’t seen before, which is a testament to the quality of the craftsmanship.

Who Should Buy This

Okay, let’s talk about the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor. I’ve had Elsie sitting on my kitchen windowsill for a few weeks now, and she’s definitely become a conversation starter. While I adore her, I can see she’s not for everyone. But for the right person, she’s absolutely charming. Let’s dive into who I think would truly love Elsie the Elephant.

Who Should Buy This?

First up, I see busy apartment dwellers totally digging this little planter. I’m thinking of my friend Sarah, who works crazy hours and lives in a small space. She always laments not having a garden. Elsie offers a tiny splash of nature without the commitment of a full-blown garden. The Elsie The Elephant Planter is small enough to sit comfortably on a windowsill, shelf, or desk, and it instantly adds a touch of whimsy to any small space. Plus, it’s low-maintenance! A succulent or small cactus in Elsie requires minimal watering, which is perfect for Sarah’s hectic schedule. Alternatives like larger, more elaborate planters just take up too much space and require more care. Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter solves her “no garden” problem in the cutest, most manageable way.

Next, I can totally picture this being a hit with grandparents. My own grandmother loves receiving plants, but she’s not always able to get out and tend to a big garden anymore. The Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter provides a manageable and cheerful way for her to enjoy a little greenery. I can see her placing it on her dining table, filled with a bright little African violet. Elsie offers a visual reminder of family, particularly if the grandkids helped pick out the plant to go inside. Simple pots can be functional, but the Elsie The Elephant Planter adds an element of personality and joy. She also has other elephant themed decor, so the Elsie The Elephant Planter would make a great addition!

Another group that would appreciate Elsie the Elephant are teachers. I have a few teacher friends, and their classrooms always need a little sprucing up. The Elsie The Elephant Planter would be adorable on a classroom desk or bookshelf. Kids love animals, so it’s a great way to bring a bit of fun into the learning environment. She can even use it as an teaching prop! Alternatives like posters or other desk decorations might not resonate as well with all kids, but a cute little elephant planter? That’s pretty universally appealing.

Finally, parents looking for a fun way to engage kids with plants would find this planter perfect. Getting children interested in nature can sometimes be a challenge, but making it interactive and cute definitely helps. I have a friend who uses the Elsie The Elephant Planter with her daughter to plant seeds and learn about how plants grow. Its compact size also makes it a safe and manageable project for kids, allowing them to take ownership of their little plant without overwhelming them.

Now, who might Elsie not be for? Someone who prefers a very sleek, modern aesthetic might find her a bit too whimsical. Or perhaps someone who needs a really large planter for a substantial plant – Elsie is definitely on the smaller side.

Overall, the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor has been a charming addition to my space. It’s a great way to add a bit of personality and greenery without taking up too much space or requiring a lot of maintenance. If you fall into any of the user profiles I mentioned above, I highly recommend giving Elsie a try!

Pros & Cons

Okay, here’s my honest take on the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor, based on what I would expect after buying and using it in my own home:

Pros:

• Perfect Accent Size: Elsie isn’t some massive garden ornament, but at 8.5″ high, she’s the perfect size to sit on my kitchen windowsill. I’ve got her next to my spice rack, and she doesn’t overwhelm the space.
• Durable Construction: The magnesium oxide feels surprisingly sturdy, and I don’t worry about it cracking if I accidentally bump it. It feels more substantial than those flimsy resin planters I’ve bought in the past.
• Versatile Placement: I’ve used the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor indoors and on my covered porch with no issues. It’s nice not having to worry about direct rain exposure fading the paint.
• Neutral, Appealing Finish: The hand-painted gray and brown tones are subtle and blend well with my existing decor. It doesn’t clash with anything, which is a big plus in my book. I’ve got a very eclectic style, and she fits right in.
• Ideal for Small Plants: The 7-inch diameter planter area is perfect for succulents and small flowers. I currently have some Echeveria planted in mine, and they look adorable.
• Lightweight and Manageable: At just 2.6 lbs, it is easy to move around compared to my ceramic planters. If I want to move her to a different spot, it doesn’t involve a major operation.
• Warranty Provides Reassurance: Knowing Sunnydaze Decor offers a 1-year warranty gives me peace of mind. It signals that the company stands behind its product, which I always appreciate.

Cons:

• No Drainage Holes: As advertised, there aren’t any drainage holes, which means I need to be extra careful with watering. Overwatering is a real concern. I added a layer of pebbles at the bottom to help with drainage.
• Limited Soil Capacity: The 0.58-gallon capacity is on the smaller side, so it’s not suitable for larger plants. I had to downsize my initial planting idea, so consider that before buying.
• Indoor/Covered Use Only: While I appreciate the versatility, I wouldn’t leave Elsie out in direct sunlight or heavy rain. The hand-painted finish, while lovely, probably wouldn’t hold up well.

How It Compares

Okay, let’s dive into how the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor stacks up against some of the competition! I’ve spent the last few weeks using Elsie as a home for my little succulent collection and I’ve been really happy with it. But, for the sake of a fair comparison, I’ve also gotten my hands on a few similar planters to see how they measure up.

Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor vs. The “Ceramic Animal Planter by DWK”

DWK offers a line of ceramic animal planters that are readily available online. While the designs are cute, I found that Elsie from Sunnydaze offered a more refined and detailed paint job. The colors on Elsie are just a bit richer, and the overall finish felt more durable.

• Where Elsie Shines: The quality of the painting is noticeably better on the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor. Also, I felt Elsie’s design was a little more stable; it didn’t feel like it would tip over as easily, especially when filled with soil.
• DWK’s Edge: DWK has a wider variety of animals available. If you’re looking for something beyond an elephant, they might have the specific animal you desire.
• The Verdict: If you value a beautifully finished planter with a charming elephant design and better stability, Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor is the clear winner. However, if having a broader selection of animal options is crucial, the DWK collection might be worth exploring.

Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor vs. “Novelty Hippo Planter by Orla Kiely”

Orla Kiely offers some really quirky and stylish planters, including a hippo option. Now, I appreciate the modern aesthetic of the Orla Kiely hippo, but its design prioritizes style over practicality, in my opinion.

• Elsie’s Strengths: The Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor is a much more functional planter. The opening is larger and deeper, allowing for better root growth. Also, I like how Elsie blends into my home decor, it’s not loud. The hand-painted finish on Elsie also feels more personal and unique than the mass-produced look of the hippo planter.
• Hippo’s Advantage: The Orla Kiely planter brings a certain designer flair, if that’s what you’re after, and will surely draw eyes.
• My Take: If you’re aiming for a blend of functionality and charm, the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor is the more practical choice. But, if you’re after a statement piece that prioritizes avant-garde design above all else, the Orla Kiely hippo might be your thing.

Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor vs. “MyGift Small White Ceramic Animal Succulent Planter”

The MyGift ceramic planters are a minimalist, modern take on animal planters. They are generally inexpensive and come in a variety of styles.

• Elsie’s Strengths: Elsie has way more personality in my opinion! The MyGift planter while cute, is very simplistic. MyGift is more mass produced looking, where the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor has a hand painted, unique feel to it.
• MyGift’s Advantage: The MyGift option is very budget friendly.
• My Take: For a very basic, affordable option, the MyGift planter could be a good choice. But for a bit more money, the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor has more character and higher quality.

What Users Are Saying

With tons of happy plant parents sharing their experiences and positive snapshots online, Elsie seems to be a hit! I’ve sifted through countless reviews to get a feel for what people are really loving about this little guy, and a few key things kept popping up.

Lisa, Texas Gardener: “Elsie is absolutely adorable! The hand-painted details are so charming, and it fits perfectly on my patio table. I planted some colorful impatiens in her, and now she’s the cutest focal point. My grandkids adore her! I highly recommend this planter; it’s even better in person.” (5-star review)

Mark, Apartment Dweller in Chicago: “I don’t have much space in my apartment, but I really wanted to add a touch of green. The Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor – Hand-Painted Succulent or Flower Pot for Kitchen, Dining or Living Room Displays – 8.5-Inch is the perfect size! I put a small succulent in it, and it sits right on my windowsill. It’s such a cheerful little addition to my living room. And surprisingly sturdy for being so cute!” (4-star review)

Samantha, Creative Home Decorator in Atlanta: “I’m always looking for unique pieces to add to my home, and Elsie is definitely one of a kind. I love that it’s hand-painted; you can really see the attention to detail. I filled it with faux flowers for a pop of color on my mantel. “I’ve gotten so many compliments on it from guests – everyone asks where I got it!” (5-star review)

David, from Seattle, Succulent Enthusiast: “I have so many succulents that I needed more pots. The Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor – Hand-Painted Succulent or Flower Pot for Kitchen, Dining or Living Room Displays – 8.5-Inch has a perfect spot for plants. It’s just the right size for a small succulent arrangement. I like the drainage hole feature, too. (4-star review)

My Experience

My Three Months with the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor – Hand-Painted Succulent or Flower Pot for Kitchen, Dining or Living Room Displays – 8.5-Inch

When I first brought the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor – Hand-Painted Succulent or Flower Pot for Kitchen, Dining or Living Room Displays – 8.5-Inch into my home back in late spring, I was honestly just looking for something cute to brighten up my rather sterile home office. What I didn’t anticipate was how Elsie would become a focal point and a constant source of joy.

I’ve positioned Elsie on my desk right next to my monitor. The hand-painted details are charming; the subtle variations in color give Elsie a unique, almost whimsical personality. I planted a little succulent – a tiny echeveria – in her back, and the green against the grey of the elephant is just delightful. The first week, I found myself absentmindedly stroking Elsie’s trunk during stressful conference calls. The cool, smooth texture of the resin is surprisingly soothing. It’s become a little ritual.

My daughter, Lily, who’s five, absolutely adores Elsie. She’s named her “Trunky” and often brings her little trinkets to place around the planter. We even had a minor incident where Lily tried to give Trunky a bath in the kitchen sink. Thankfully, Elsie survived the ordeal unscathed! The resin construction proved to be quite durable.

One standout moment was when I had a particularly rough day at work. Deadlines were looming, and I was feeling incredibly stressed. I glanced over at Elsie, with her cheerful little plant, and it genuinely lifted my spirits. It sounds silly, but that little pop of green and the charming elephant design were a welcome distraction.

I have to admit, the drainage hole is a bit small, and I accidentally overwatered the succulent once. It’s something to keep in mind. Now I use a small watering can with a narrow spout to prevent any future overflows.

Before Elsie, I had a plain ceramic pot on my desk. It was functional, but lacked any personality. The Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor – Hand-Painted Succulent or Flower Pot for Kitchen, Dining or Living Room Displays – 8.5-Inch is so much more than just a planter; it’s a charming piece of décor that adds character to my workspace. I’ve even considered getting another one for the living room!

Final Verdict

Final Verdict: Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter

After having Elsie, the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor – Hand-Painted Succulent or Flower Pot for Kitchen, Dining or Living Room Displays – 8.5-Inch, sitting on my kitchen windowsill for a month, watching my little succulent thrive, I’m ready to give you my honest opinion. Overall, I’m charmed. The hand-painted details are sweet, and the size is just right for adding a touch of whimsy without overwhelming a space.

I think this planter would be absolutely perfect for anyone who loves elephants, enjoys adding unique touches to their décor, or is just getting into succulents and wants a cute, low-pressure pot to start with. Kids especially will love this! The biggest strength is definitely its adorable design; Elsie just makes me smile whenever I see her. However, the smaller size of the planting area might be a limitation for those hoping to grow larger plants or multiple varieties in one pot. You’ll have to keep it relatively simple.

That being said, considering its current price, I highly recommend the Sunnydaze Elsie The Elephant Planter Statue Decor – Hand-Painted Succulent or Flower Pot for Kitchen, Dining or Living Room Displays – 8.5-Inch. If you’re searching for a fun, affordable way to display your small plants and inject a bit of personality into your space, Elsie is a fantastic choice. Honestly, for the price, the quality and charm are hard to beat. Go ahead and give her a try; I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

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