Your new is just around the corner
Sign up for insight into the latest design trends from our newsletter
You're on the list
By signing up, you agree to receive email marketing.
Design 101
How To Find the Best Fake House Plants
September 05, 2024
If you spend a few minutes looking at photos of gorgeous interior designs, you’ll notice that most have one thing in common: luscious houseplants. Nothing breathes life into a space like a vibrant plant in a stylish pot. But it’s not always easy to care for live plants, especially if you travel a lot or forget to water. And some species are just finicky.
That’s where fake plants come in. These decorations beautify your space without needing constant attention and care. However, not all artificial plants are created equal, and some look more convincing than others. Here's a look at the best fake house plants so you can find the right options for your home.
Common Fake House Plants and Trees
Retailers offer thousands of artificial house plants and trees. If you can buy a real species at a nursery, you can almost certainly find a fake version.
Here are a few of the most popular types:
•
Firs
These artificial evergreen trees fit nicely into a Parisian or modern farmhouse design, among others. They have dense green needles but don’t shed like real firs.
•
Ficus trees
Fake Ficus trees have glossy leaves and slender trunks. They fit neatly into compact spaces, such as the corner of an office or an entryway.
•
Palm trees
These fake plants are tall and have full leaves, making them the perfect accessory for fireplaces, entryways, and other focal points.
•
Snake plants
Snake plants have eye-catching green and yellow leaves. Fake versions come in a broad range of sizes to suit any space.
•
Succulents
Small fake succulents come in a huge range of colors and shapes. They also frequently have quirky or sophisticated decorative pots. Faux succulents can decorate your desk, countertop, mantel, and other surfaces.
Fake plant materials
The best-looking fake plants are often made from cotton, rayon, and silk. These high-end fabrics allow manufacturers to create realistic leaves and petals.
Less expensive artificial plants often have polyester leaves and flowers. This fabric is highly durable but may have a shinier finish than other materials. These plants don’t always look as convincing.
Additionally, many manufacturers use plastics like polyethylene and polypropylene. Plastic plants can feel rigid and look smoother than fabric ones, so they may be easier to spot as dupes. But they require less maintenance than their fabric counterparts and resist fading in the sun.
How To Make a Fake Plant Look More Real
You’ve probably spotted fake plants at your doctor’s office or family members’ homes. These decorations can stick out like a sore thumb if you don't properly arrange and maintain them. Luckily, there are a few hacks to make them look more convincing.
Start by adding real dirt and moss to the top of the pots. These organic materials will give the plants an authentic, outdoorsy smell and appearance.
Asymmetry also makes plants look more natural. If your fake plant seems too perfect, cut off a few leaves or muss the branches for a more organic look.
Don’t forget about regular maintenance. Dust your fake plants at least once a month to keep them looking fresh and vibrant. You can also use an artificial plant cleaning spray to give the leaves a natural sheen.
The Best Fake House Plants
The best fake plants have natural coloring, shapes, and textures. They also have high-quality pots that complement your existing decor. Here are some of our top picks.
Best fake hanging plants
The best fake hanging plants drape have elegant leaves or vines that drape naturally. They also have flexible stems, so you can adjust the way they fall to create the most authentic look.
Consider creating a plant wall with fake hanging plants. You can hang them from the ceiling with different lengths of rope or arrange them on floating shelves. Use a variety of artificial hanging plants to create visual interest. For instance, your wall could include the following faux plants:
•
A Tamsyn philodendron hanging basket with flowing leaves
•
A fuzzy willow plant
•
A spiky spider plant
You can also hang individual artificial plants in spaces that need a splash of greenery. A long eucalyptus plant could brighten the corner of your bedroom, while a colorful geranium can complement your kitchen decor.
Best artificial indoor trees
Fake trees are excellent focal points that add drama and natural charm to your home. The best artificial indoor trees have thick leaves and solid trunks.
Bring good luck into your home with a fake bamboo tree. These plants have dense leaves and thick trunks. They’re the perfect addition to a living room or bedroom.
Fake palm trees are another excellent choice. They imitate many different species, such as the Australian kentia palm and golden cane palm. These stunning plants can stand 5 feet tall or higher.
Best-looking fake plants for accent pieces
Fake plants are great accessories for virtually every design style.
Cottagecore lovers often decorate their homes with colorful faux flower arrangements. Consider stunning white roses or hydrangeas in glass vases. These decorations will add rustic charm to a bedroom or sitting area.
If you prefer a French country design, look for classic artificial plants that evoke the countryside. For instance, you could decorate with elegant blue Annabelle hydrangeas or delicate orchids in neutral tones.
Fans of minimalist or modern styles could opt for simple succulent centerpieces.
Fake wreaths
Greet your guests with a charming fake wreath on your front door. These durable decorations last for years, even in harsh winter conditions.
Fake wreaths mimic natural elements and often feature these lifelike details:
•
Branches
•
Blueberries
•
Eucalyptus berries
•
Evergreen sprigs
•
Flowers
•
Pine cones
•
Snow
The best faux wreaths have appealing colors and distinct themes. For instance, a fiery red and orange coreopsis wreath will give you a taste of autumn year-round. A faux berry and acorn wreath is the perfect harvest or Christmas accessory.
The best plant accessories
Accessorizing your fake plants can add authenticity and style.
Consider arranging artificial plants in a charming front door planter. These planters come in many designs, from coastal-style sea stone pots to industrial wrought iron stands. Mix and match artificial flowers and grasses to create an eye-catching planter box.
Indoor artificial plants look great in an elegant vase. Add faux flowers to a bright metallic vase for a glam or industrial look, or use a handcrafted glazed vase that will complement rustic or traditional decor.
Hanging planters are another exciting option. Get the most out of your vertical space by attaching wire or ceramic planters to your indoor walls. Alternatively, metal hanging planters are stunning focal points in a kitchen or garden. Add artificial plants with dramatically cascading leaves or vines for the most impact.
Beautify Your Home
A growing number of people have embraced biophilic design, a style that uses natural elements to create a serene and welcoming atmosphere. It aims to boost your mood and improve productivity.
Take advantage of biophilic design by bringing beautiful artificial plants into your home. But remember, the best fake plants are made from high-quality fabrics or plastics and are barely distinguishable from the real thing.
Browse our huge selection of artificial plants and faux flowers to find the perfect accessories for your home.