Ceramic item came in a bag with no extra padding. Box looked terrible and was meant to be given as a gift. Luckily it didn't break. I had to tape the bottom and explain to person it was meant for. But the Chia is doing fine and growing. Side note: it isn't very tall in person. Maybe about 5in or 6in tops.This little guy is super cute. Perfect for your work desk or even out in the garden among your other plants. Just make sure to READ and follow the instructions. I used too many of the chia seeds and now his little face is all covered with growth but that's my fault. Special note - if you keep him outside you may need to fill him with water more often as the chia foliage seems to be sensitive to the sun. I'm in zone 8 so I refill him with water almost daily.I was very disappointed and embarrassed when I got this. I gave it as a gift, so when I got it I wrapped right away. Didn’t notice that it looked like it had already been returned and then the directions were only in French. Luckily the person who got it was tech savvy and looked up the directions.Grows within two days. Fun to see grow as well. Gift-able to any 80’s fan. Nice item for the price.Unfortunately the Chia Pet arrived broken. Fortunately the broken pieces were on the back.This thing is awesome, every day I’m like what’s he gonna look like today. The instructions were pretty straightforward. Didn’t have any problems getting the seeds to sprout. Pic review is day 1-4 progression.Got this for Christmas. What a great gift. Gremlins. I am not good with anything that is growing and green. Great fun and it is a Gremlin. Takes me back.Perfect gift for my Gremlins loving sister. She will chase it around the table pretending its alive, sad that it's not.