Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (2024)

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Rachel Simon

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (1)

Rachel Simon

Rachel has written for Dotdash Meredith's Ecommerce team since 2020, covering home goods, tech, fashion, beauty, and more. She's interviewed dozens of experts and is always on top of the latest trends and product releases.

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Updated on November 27, 2023

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Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (2)

If you don’t want to dedicate time to watering and caring for your greenery, then you should decorate your home with fake plants instead. Studies show they can provide as much of a mental health boost as the real deal. With bright colors, delicate leaves, and elegant planters, the best fake plants look real but don’t require any maintenance.

To come up with this list, we researched various types of faux plants (including potted floor plants, hanging flowers, and small succulents) and considered factors like size, material, and planter type. We also spoke to Meg Callahan, brand manager at Afloral, for expert tips on how to choose the most realistic-looking fake plants.

When shopping for artificial plants, Callahan suggests keeping your eyes peeled for ones that have “wired stems and leaves, and realistic-looking coloring (not too perfect, with variation in color and dimension).” That's because “anything wired can be bent and manipulated, which allows you to create the look you want,” she says.

Threshold 10" Artificial Eucalyptus Arrangement

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (3)

Not only does this adorable eucalyptus plant from Threshold have an attractive minimalist design, but it's also affordable enough that you can buy multiple without breaking the bank. It features an assortment of medium and dark green leaves, and it comes in a small white planter that will look good in any room. If you aren't into eucalyptus (or if you want an assortment of plant styles in your home), the brand also has artificial fiddle leaf and fern arrangements available at Target.

Plant Type: Eucalyptus | Height: 10 inches | Pot Dimensions: 10 x 10 inches

  • Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (4)

  • Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (5)

  • Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (6)

Dovecove Artificial Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (7)

Sitting in a classic wicker basket base, this faux fiddle leaf fig is the ideal height for placement in a corner, entryway, or another tucked-away spot—not that you'll ever want to hide it. It has an array of big, bold leaves that help make it look more realistic. And at 36 inches tall, the fake plant is compact enough to fit in small rooms without taking up too much space.

Plant Type: Fiddle leaf fig | Height: 36 inches | Pot Dimensions: 11 x 10 x 10 inches

  • Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (8)

  • Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (9)

  • Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (10)

This beautiful faux pothos plant has bright green leaves that will stand out on any backdrop, and its lifelike shape will trick your guests into thinking it's the real thing. The leaves don't trail as much as they would on a traditional pothos plant that's had plenty of time to grow, but it's still a great way to add color to any bookcase or coffee table.

Plant Type: Pothos | Height: 13 inches | Pot Dimensions: 6.5 x 6.7 inches

  • Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (12)

  • Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (13)

  • Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (14)

Nearly Natural Bougainvillea Hanging Basket

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (15)

Hanging plants can be hard to take care of, but a faux version doesn't need to be watered from so high up. This hanging basket plant from Nearly Natural adds a colorful pop to your home without taking up any floor space. It's adorned with bright pink flowers and cascading vines that hang around the wicker planter. Even though it's fake, this plant looks and feels surprisingly real—and that's probably because the brand's products are designed by horticulturists.

Plant Type: Bougainvillea | Height: 24 inches | Pot Dimensions: 10 x 6 inches

Besamenature Artificial Palm Tree Plant

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (16)

This fake plant from Besamenature has plenty of pretty palm tree leaves that will make a fun addition to any room. It's available in three different sizes ranging from 12 to 28 inches tall, and each one comes with a neutral-colored pot (either black or white, depending on the size) that's versatile enough to match any decor style. The smallest version can add a decorative touch to a bookcase or entryway table, while the larger options will be more of a focal point that can go directly on the floor or a plant stand for added height.

Plant Type: Palm tree | Height: 12–38 inches | Pot Dimensions: From 13.27 x 4.33 x 4.25 inches to 40 x 5 x 5 inches

Afloral Artificial Potted Olive Tree Plant

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (17)

If you want to add some Mediterranean flair to your home decor, opt for this elegant artificial olive tree from Afloral. The muted tones, asymmetrical shape, and impressive height make it an attractive focal point in any room. While the included black plastic vessel might do it for minimalists, you can also purchase a stylish pot from the site.

Plant Type: Olive tree | Height: 47.25 inches | Pot Dimensions: 6 x 5.5 x 5 inches

This gorgeous fake plant from Terrain has feather-like pink plumes that add a hint of color and texture to any room in your home. It comes in a plastic container that you can place directly in the decorative pot of your choosing. (For the best fit, use a pot with a 4-inch diameter.)

Plant Type: Plume | Height: 23.5 inches | Pot Dimensions: No pot included

Nearly Natural Green 35" Sansevieria with Black Planter

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (19)

Sansevieria plants (aka snake plants) are hard to kill, but a fake version requires barely any maintenance—just occasionally wipe it with a dry cloth if you notice any dust. This ultra-lush option has moss green leaves that point straight up and have a natural-looking pattern. It stands just about three feet high, so it will look just as good as a focal point in your living room as it would tucked away in a corner.

Plant Type: Sansevieria | Height: 35 inches | Pot Dimensions: 7 x 7 inches

Pottery Barn Faux Silver Dollar Eucalyptus Tree

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (20)

Bring the whimsy of the outdoors into your home with this faux eucalyptus tree from Pottery Barn. At 84 inches tall, this is the largest fake plant on our list, immediately making a statement in any space. The plant is made of recycled plastic and polyester, and it has a hefty sand and cement base for stability.

Plant Type: Eucalyptus tree | Height: 84 inches | Pot Dimensions: 7.5 inches (diameter)

Luxsego Artificial Greenery Plant

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (21)

This unique artificial plant features tall pampas grass and three white reed flowers that have a feather-like appearance. This version of the plant comes in a simple black pot, but you can also find other plant colors and pot styles. No matter which color you choose, this faux plant will add tranquil, spa-like vibes to your bathroom, bedroom, or home office.

Plant Type: Pampas grass | Height: 46 inches | Pot Dimensions: 5.5 x 5.5 inches

Hearth & Hand with Magnolia Faux Hoya Leaf Stem Potted Arrangement

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (22)

How pretty are these neutral-toned ceramic pots that hold these bright green hoya plants? These stylish planters will catch anyone’s attention, no matter where you choose to put them in your home. The two-piece set adds the perfect amount of greenery to your home (even if you’re tight on space).

Plant Type: Hoya leaf | Height: 7–10 inches | Pot Dimensions: From 3 x 2 inches to 4.25 x 2.25 inches

Freeport Park Fleeman Faux Monstera Tree in Pot

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (23)

Available in three different sizes, this faux monstera will instantly elevate any space in your home. It has the same style of split leaves that the tropical plant typically has, along with bark and stems that look super realistic. You can place the simple black pot into another planter or basket for a decorative touch.

Plant Type: Monstera | Height: 48–72 inches | Pot Dimensions: 6 x 13 inches

Kurrajong Farmhouse Artificial Grass Succulent Plant

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (24)

This pretty concrete planter houses a gorgeous faux succulent that's the perfect size to rest on a shelf, desk, or windowsill. We think its neutral color and design will go great with any rustic or contemporary home decor. The plant itself is very life-like, so other people won't even be able to tell that it's not a real succulent.

Plant Type: Grass | Height: 8 inches | Pot Dimensions: 4.5 inches wide

Pottery Barn Faux Planted Orchid

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (25)

Orchids are notoriously challenging to keep alive, but this faux option is certainly an exception. Rather than splurging on a flower that might die when you look at it the wrong way, you can invest in this realistic imitation with all the elegance and beauty of the real thing. It also comes in a red clay vessel that will look pretty on any desk, nightstand, or table.

Plant Type: Orchid | Height: 21 inches | Pot Dimensions: 6 inches (diameter)

Highland Dunes Grover 60" Artificial Palm Plant

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (26)

If you want a fake plant that makes a major statement, check out this large palm tree with a sky-high collection of leaves. It’s the kind of fun, breezy plant that’s bound to warm up any space. The faux palm tree looks very natural, but the leaves are still durable enough that you can adjust them without damage.

Plant Type: Palm | Height: 60 inches | Pot Dimensions: 5.5 x 6.5 inches

Best Climbing Plants for Your Trellis or Pergola

Nearly Natural Golden Dieffenbachia Silk Plant

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (27)

This striking plant features a full, tightly-packed array of bright leaves in several different shades of green. Golden dieffenbachia is a type of shrub known for its green leaves with yellow and white markings, so it's a great choice for people who want multi-colored plants. Other fake plants might require you to spend time shaping the leaves, but this one is ready to put on display once you take it out of the box. (But the branches are still bendable in case you want to make adjustments.) The plant itself is gorgeous, but the wooden hexagonal planter might be the real star of the show.

Plant Type: Golden dieffenbachia | Height: 23 inches | Pot Dimensions: 12 x 12 inches

Afloral UV Protected Outdoor Potted Grass Plant

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (28)

For those who want to decorate their patio, garden, or yard without the hassle of watering, an outdoor artificial plant can give you plenty of curb appeal without adding to your chore list. This faux grass plant is UV-treated to prevent any fading or wear over time, so it will look good as new for years to come. Though this pick would be great for outdoors, it can double as an indoor plant, too.

Plant Type: Grass | Height: 38 inches | Pot Dimensions: 6.5 x 5.5 inches

Fejka Artificial Weeping Fig Potted Plant

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (29)

Thanks to its tall height and surplus of bright green leaves, this weeping fig from Ikea is bound to make a statement in your home. The faux tree can be placed indoors or outdoors, so it'll add life to your office and front porch alike, especially on cloudy days when you need to boost your mood. It comes in a plain black pot, but you can always place it in another planter if you prefer something more colorful.

Plant Type: Weeping fig | Height: 67 inches | Pot Dimensions: 8.25 inches (diameter)

Opalhouse Artificial Succulent Plant with Brass Terrarium

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (30)

This pint-sized succulent from Opalhouse would make an adorable addition to a desk or floating shelf. The geometric glass planter comes filled with multicolored pebbles, which makes it more appealing than a traditional opaque pot. The plant itself might not be the most realistic-looking option, but its modern style really makes it stand out.

Plant Type: Succulent | Height: 5 inches \ Pot Dimensions: 5.25 x 4.25 inches

Afloral Plum Fake Cimicifuga Ramosa Leaves

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (31)

The rich plum color of these artificial leaves adds the essence of fall to your home, whether you choose to bring them out seasonally or keep them on display year-round. Though this pick isn’t ideal for those who want a faux plant that’s already potted, it gives you creative license over how you use these vibrant leaves—from a mantle wreath to a decorative table centerpiece.

Plant Type: Cimicifuga ramosa | Height: 31 inches | Pot Dimensions: No pot included

Juvale Artificial Potted Bonsai Tree

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (32)

Bonsai trees are thought to symbolize peace, harmony, and oneness with the natural world. Real bonsai trees can be hard to keep alive, but you can still snag this artificial version from Target to hopefully bring those good vibes into your life. Plus, this faux option is small enough to keep on your desktop or coffee table.

Plant Type: Bonsai tree | Height: 9.3 inches | Pot Dimensions: 5 x 9 inches

Ikea Fejka 19” Artificial Hydrangea Potted Plant

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (33)

This affordable hydrangea plant from Ikea is a great option for people who want faux flowers that last way longer than a bouquet from the florist. The plant consists of three big white and pink flowers and several thick green leaves, all sitting in a simple black pot. If you’re aiming for a different look, just switch the pot out for one of a different color or pattern that better matches your style.

Plant Type: Hydrangea | Height: 19.75 inches | Pot Dimensions: 4.75 inches (diameter)

Lark Manor Faux Fern Plant

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (34)

Small yet eye-catching, this miniature French fern plant consists of tons of bright green leaves that stretch out in all directions. Keep in mind that it's pretty small, so it's better at supplementing other plants and decor rather than being the focal point of a room. But what sets this fake plant apart is its pot: a rustic glass base inscribed with French words.

Plant Type: French fern | Height: 15 inches | Pot Dimensions: 4 x 4 x 4 inches

This dracaena plant from Nearly Natural is covered in lush dark green leaves that sprout from several dark brown stems. The faux plant comes with a sand-colored vase planter that's filled with rocks, and it will easily blend in with your bedroom decor and living room furniture. It's four feet tall, but the planter is still compact enough that it doesn't take up much floor space.

Plant Type: Dracaena | Height: 48 inches| Pot Dimensions: 12.5 x 10 inches

Project 62 Artificial Snake Plant in Pot

Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (36)

As cool as this faux snake plant is with its multicolored textured leaves, it’s the gray cement planter that caught our attention. The modern-looking pot is perfect for your desk, bedside table, or dresser because it doesn’t take up much space.

Plant Type: Snake plant | Height: 9.5 inches | Pot Dimensions: 2.8 x 3.8 inches

This tall ficus bush from Vickerman stands out for its plentiful leaves, which come in multiple shades of green and various sizes to make it look more lifelike. Although the bush is very full, it's easy to move around each branch so you can shape it as needed. It even has a real wood trunk inside of the brown willow basket.

Plant Type: Ficus | Height: 48 inches | Pot Dimensions: 30 inches (diameter)

How to Shop for Fake Plants Like a Pro

Size

If you go for a larger plant, that means you’ll likely see “the undersides of the leaves,” says Meg Callahan, brand manager at Afloral, so check detailed product pictures before placing your order to make sure you like the way it looks. If you prefer smaller plants, remember that you can always combine a few of them for a “fuller look,” she suggests, which adds “more depth and dimension to a planter.”

Material

When choosing a fake plant, look for a description saying "Real Touch," advises Callahan, who says that "typically means the plastic or fabric leaves are coated in either latex or a foam blend that makes them appear damp or soft to the touch." But if you're planning on placing your plants outdoors, go for plastic and UV-protected options, instead, as foam and latex don't handle weather as well.

Planter Style

There are tons of different planter looks out there, from simple black pots to decorative planters. If you aren't thrilled with the pot that comes with the plant you have your eyes on, remember that you can always repot the plant in a new planter of your choosing.

Questions You Might Ask

Which fake plants look the most realistic?

Look for fake plants that have various colors, leaf shapes, and quality materials. Faux plants that are perfectly symmetrical, have unnatural colors or are overall hom*ogenous branch by branch, are more likely to appear fraudulent.

If you want your fake plants to mimic real greenery, place them where they would get adequate sunlight—after all, actual plants wouldn’t grow in a dark corner or dimly lit room. We also recommend cleaning them regularly, as dusty leaves are one of the quickest ways to blow their cover. For fake plants with less-than-convincing soil, also add some of your own to the base.

How long do fake plants last?

Fake plants eliminate the stress of keeping your greenery alive, so you can have luscious plants that last year after year. Most faux plants can last years with a little maintenance and care, especially those that are UV-treated.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Rachel Simon, a writer for Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, and The New York Times, and was updated by Quinn Gawronski, associate commerce editor for Real Simple. We did significant research on fake plants to create this list, including speaking with Meg Callahan, brand manager at Afloral, for expert advice on how to choose the best faux plants for your needs.

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Found: 26 Realistic-Looking Fake Plants for People Without a Green Thumb (2024)
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