Individual Artificial Flowers

Calla Lily

• Calla lily is a sleek, Art Deco-looking flower. The most common color is white, but it also blooms in pink, purple, orange and a nearly black color. Calla lilies are trumpet-shaped with flaring edges that fold over the center of the flower. An individual black calla lily placed in a black ceramic vase would fit a modern decorating theme.

Orchid

• Orchids bloom on arching branches or on a straight central stem. In nature, they're often found blooming in the forks of a tree secured by the plant's air roots. The largest orchid is the cattleya. It has ruffled petals blooming in white, purple, yellow and pink. The edges of the petals are sometimes a different color. Orchids are long lasting as cut flowers and longer lasting still on the plant. Place a single artificial orchid on a stack of towels in the master bedroom for an exotic look.

Oriental Lily

• Oriental lilies are up to 6 inches across in nature. Real lilies have the disadvantage of releasing pollen that stains clothing and furniture. Artificial lilies can give you a beautiful look, while keeping the upholstery clean. Place single flowers in crystal goblets and set them in a row on a fireplace mantel alternating with tea lights. It would be difficult to do that with fresh lilies since the heat of the fireplace would cause the lilies to wilt faster.

Peonies

• Peonies are huge, up to 12 inches across. One is enough for an entire arrangement. Unfortunately, peonies have a short blooming season so they aren't always available. Use silk peonies any time of the year. Arrange one peony in the bottom of a shallow square container to contrast with the roundness of the flower. Add three twisting branches, two leaning to the right and one angled to the left, to lead the eye upward.