Spring is just around the corner, and that means it’s time for my annual spring stem hunt. I’ve looked high and low for the most realistic branches and florals to save you time searching, and rounded up this year’s best (plus my tips on how to style them!)
Between staging vacation rentals full time and a busy schedule, I rely heavily on realistic faux greenery to bring life to our spaces. I’ve refreshed my list with a ton of new finds this year, along with top rated best sellers I reach for again and again.
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Where to buy artificial flowers and stems
There are several trusted sources I turn to for the best selection of realistic faux florals:
- Afloral
- Amazon
- Etsy
- Target
- Pottery Barn
- Crate & Barrel
- Magnolia
- McGee & Co
- House of Jade
- Michaels
- Walmart
- Wayfair
- West Elm
Here’s what made the cut this year, followed by some of my favorites styled in our homes.
Realistic faux stems and branches
Out of all the new stems I found this year, these dusty mauve berry branches are at the top of my list, and they transition beautifully throughout the seasons. I used five below in my McGee & Co wood vase.
These $7 wisteria stems are in the top 3 most realistic I’ve seen, and the price can’t be beat. I used six in the terracotta vase below, and keep them displayed year round in our living room.
These extra long italian ruscus branches are a long time Afloral favorite. They can be cut and styled in many ways, and I particularly like them in this large konos vase.
If you’ve got a big space to fill, I love this privet branch. Super realistic, and the seeded detail feels like a breath of fresh spring air. You can make a big statement with three branches in this terracotta floor vase.
The best faux spring florals
In the past I’ve typically reached for leafy stems first when styling, but this year? I’m all about the florals. Maybe it’s because the selection and variety is better than ever lately, but I just can’t get enough. Flowers bring life, beauty and softness to a space, and I believe no room is complete without them.
Hydrangeas are my go-to floral for styling these days (both preserved and faux). I’ve acquired quite the collection, and these $5 beauties are my new favorite. I ordered them in “brown” (they’re more mauve in person) and used 10 stems in a glazed ceramic vase for an extra full arrangement.
After spotting these peonies all over, I had to see them for myself and they definitely live up to the hype. I used a set of 6 in cream in this terracotta vase.
Cherry blossoms are popping up everywhere this year, and these 36″ branches in blush are one of the most realistic I’ve seen (they come in white, too). I used six in this large handled vase.
For a more budget-friendly option, I’m loving these $5 white cherry blossom stems. One set of 4 are all you need for a perfect arrangement.
This delicate baby’s breath comes in many colors and is perfect for smaller spaces like bathroom vanities, nightstands and dressers. I used two bundles in ‘fall white” below.
Vases
If you’re in need of pretty vase to display your spring stems, I’ve got you covered. Here’s a roundup of my favorites, from simple everyday vases to organic and earthy handmade vessels at every budget.
Tips to make faux florals look real
How you style your stems matters just as much as which ones you choose. After years of experimenting, here are my best tips for creating arrangements that look full, natural, and realistic.
- Choose the right vase. Tall branches require large vases, while small florals are best suited for shorter vases. My general rule of thumb is to make sure the floral arrangement is at least 1-2x the height of the vase.
- Don’t skimp on quantity. Minimal arrangements can work in the right setting, but I often wish I had ordered more stems. A full arrangement looks intentional, while too few can fall flat. When in doubt, get more than you think you’ll need.
- Fluff your florals. Faux stems are often compressed during shipping, so they’ll need a little reshaping. A handheld steamer works best—simply run a few passes over the flowers and leaves to relax any creases and help the petals open up naturally.
- Use wire netting. You’ll need a way to keep the stems in place, and this floral wire is the easiest way to do that. Just fold a section of it into your vase, and arrange the stems as you’d like.
- Vary the length and direction. Trim the stems to different lengths and angle them in various directions. Place them at staggered heights so it feels natural instead of uniform.
- Bend and shape. Real branches have a natural curve, so take the time to gently bend each stem into a soft ‘S’ shape for a more organic look.
And there you have it—all of the florals, branches and vases I’m loving this season. Do you have any other favorites I should know about? Do share in the comments!
Denise says
I can’t remember whose idea it was to mix artificial flowers with real flowers, but it was a fantastic idea! I currently have a real round ivy topiary arrangement and put green artificial berries on each side and a clump of white hydrangeas in the front/center. Depending on season, I add more. During Winter, it may be pinecones and a few ornaments. Currently, I added an Easter bunny and a few eggs.
Jenna Sue says
Yes, that’s a great idea too! I love doing that for larger table arrangements, especially with stems like eucalyptus that keep their coloring when they dry.