Have trouble keeping houseplants alive? I used to, too. Over time I learned a few tricks, but sometimes caring for live plants just isn’t practical. The solution: realistic artificial plants. Today’s faux greenery looks convincing and can be a stylish, low-maintenance way to add life to your rooms.
Plants bring warmth and character to a home. Real plants offer health benefits and can help improve indoor air, so I usually choose live plants when possible. Still, there are many situations where faux plants are a better fit: low-light corners, places that are hard to reach for watering, busy schedules, or pets that nibble on foliage.
We have a dog, Jack, who chews anything within reach, so many delicate real plants aren’t safe in our house. For a tucked-away spot where I knew I would forget regular care, I put a couple of maidenhair ferns — faux ones — in a pot. They give the lush green look I wanted without fallen fronds or worry about Jack snacking on them. They look fresh and require no attention.
We’re still settling in and planning a remodel, so I’ve paused buying new live plants until the rooms and lighting are finalized. In the meantime, faux plants provide all the visual benefits without the upkeep. Whether you need one piece of greenery or a trio, artificial plants create the same cozy, finished feeling.
There are so many convincing faux plants available now. Below are several options I own and recommend, shown in photos from my home.
Sources for above (see image captions and links below for details):
- Potted Artificial Jade Plant
- Artificial Maidenhair Fern Plant in Pot (also available in a smaller size). This is my favorite — I’ve struggled to keep this variety alive before, and the faux version never dies.
- Small Variegated Leaf Plant in Pot
- Large Maidenhair Fern Plant
- Faux Mini Hoya Plant in Pot
- Faux Mini Azalea Plant in Pot
- Faux/Artificial Potted Moss
- Large Asparagus Fern in Wood Pot
- Artificial Eucalyptus Plant in Pot
I used several artificial plants in my previous home as well. For more about realistic faux plants and styling tips, see my earlier post on designer decorating secrets involving faux greenery.
Related Posts:
Realistic Faux/Artificial Tulips — these feel very lifelike; I have them in three colors.
One Essential Decor Element You Probably Need More of In Your Home — thoughts on finishing touches that elevate a space.
How to Decorate: The Secret Ingredient Every Room Needs — ideas on using texture and layering.
Inspired By: Greenery and Plants in Decor — inspiration for incorporating plants, real or faux, into your styling.
Explore more style tips and decorating advice in The Inspired Room’s Style Tips Gallery for mood boards and designer guidance.