Realistic Artificial Plants & Flowers

Silk

• Silk is one of the most common materials for artificial flowers that require a delicate appearance in their petals and leaves. The quality of silk flowers varies greatly by manufacturer, and some cheaper silk flowers fail to capture the correct texture, color or shape of flowers such as tulips or hydrangeas. Latex-coated silk flowers are a higher-end alternative to standard silk flowers. The latex coating not only protects the silk fabric from damage, but adds a slightly reflective surface that more accurately interacts with light. Opt for latex-dipped silk flowers for bouquet or vase arrangements containing roses, lilies or daisies, since few larger artificial plants successfully carry off the delicate texture of silk artificials.

Plastic and Latex

• Plastic flowers are often too glossy to realistically replicate delicate petals and stems, but the same high-gloss appearance is ideal for creating the texture of the waxy leaves or stems of artificial houseplants. Plastic or latex artificial plants are formed using injection molds to replicate even the smallest details in leaves and stems. For the most realistic artificial plants, choose varieties with naturally waxy, single-colored leaves, such as the Dracaena, banana plant or Schefflera plant. Avoid artificial plants that include both plastic and fabric elements, because the textural distinction between the two looks unrealistic. Opt for manufacturers that use real dried and treated bark to create stalks, stems and trunks; the glossy appearance of plastic is not as effective for bark and stems. Latex is also effective for recreating glossy flowers with structure shapes, such as calla lilies.

Clay

• Clay flowers are emerging as a high-end option for bouquets, arrangements and boutonnieres. Clay flowers are hand-molded to form each individual part of the flower including stems, leaves, thorns, petals and stamens. Differently colored clay as well as hand-painted detail make clay an ideal material for replicating distinct flowers with multiple color variations or patterns. Clay flowers are delicate and expensive to custom order, however, so they're best reserved for special occasions such as weddings. Choose clay flowers for arrangements featuring flowers of unusual color or shape, such as tiger lilies, birds of paradise or irises.