HGTV's Jasmine Roth Says This Gorgeous Faux Flower Is Perfect For Easy Holiday Decor

Faux flowers have come a long way. In a 1964 article entitled "The Flowering of Fake Flowers," The New York Times revealed that the future had arrived with the booming faux flower industry. At that time, they were made from a waxy plastic and, while inexpensive, they earned a lot of disdain over the years. Now, however, faux flowers are made from a variety of fabrics that are delicate and carefully-crafted. In fact, even a close inspection might not be enough to determine if they're real or artificial, while the price has remained favorable. That's why HGTV's Jasmine Roth uses faux poinsettias in her Christmas décor. As she tells her readers on her blog Jasmine Roth, "You might not know how good faux poinsettias are looking these days. I bought a few that are rated for outdoors, plus a few that are better for indoors, and I use them on my outside entryway and on the opening shelving in my kitchen."

Poinsettias became associated with Christmas in a Mexican legend, but it wasn't until their bright blooms graced holiday specials in the early days of color television that they became an American holiday staple. The reds and greens popped on those newly-technicolor TV screens, and people brought them into their homes to replicate the effect. Some even left them in their traditional gold foil-wrapped pots to add to the Christmas spirit. Discover how you could do the same this year with faux florals.

Technically, a poinsettia can last for years with extensive care, but those bought in-store will last four to six weeks on average or two to three months at best. Conversely, faux poinsettias, whether made for indoor or outdoor use, can last for decades without any kind of regular maintenance. Roth says on her blog that the ones she's bought have lasted her for years and advises her clients to incorporate poinsettias in their holiday decorations. "Mix them with your favorite vases and planters for a familiar take on holiday cheer," she suggests.

The fabrics won't wilt, attract bugs, or develop a fungus. They can also be placed just about anywhere, even near a draft or a cold window where real poinsettias would suffer, making them a more versatile option. Pet owners also have a reason to choose faux poinsettias over real ones, because the plant's sap is mildly-toxic to cats and dogs, per the ASPCA. Real plants need to be kept out of reach of these animals which can be nearly impossible, but artificial ones can be placed anywhere. They also come in all kinds of styles and in pre-made garlands, pots, bouquets, and small bunches that you can add to your own creations. Further, with a wide variety of price points from the budget-friendly to the luxury-minded, it's no wonder Roth and so many others opt for faux poinsettias during the holiday season.