Artificial topiary isn’t the most common decor element in American houses, but we’ve seen an uptick in people’s enthusiasm and willingness to use them inside and outside their homes.
And that’s great - it’s always a good idea to experiment with your decor, especially when others are hesitant.
If artificial topiary plants have been on your radar for some time, but you’ve yet to muster up the courage to buy one, this blog’s for you. As experienced suppliers of artificial greenery, including fake topiary, we have advice galore.
So, if you want to have all the facts before buying and decorating with your artificial topiary, keep reading.
Types of Fake Topiary
Topiary is versatile and can take on almost any shape imaginable. Its long and storied history tells of a time when topiary was considered the art of the time and used to craft elaborate shapes, including notable figures, wild animals, and even famous buildings.
Yet, some artificial topiary plants are much more common (and well-liked) than others because they can fit almost anywhere.
In our experience, clients are most drawn to simplistic faux topiary like artificial topiary balls, artificial topiary trees, and custom artificial topiary.
Let’s talk about each of these:
Artificial topiary balls
Fake topiary balls are one of the most popular topiary shapes because they’re easy to decorate with, fun to look at, and create an ambiance reminiscent of wealthy, regal castle gardens.
At Designer Plants, we have artificial topiary balls with imitation boxwood, buxus, and rose clover, ranging from 11” to 17” across. The topiary balls come in sets of 2 and are great for adding symmetry.
Artificial topiary trees
For clients who need a more conventional approach to topiary, artificial topiary trees are just the thing to scratch the itch.
Topiary trees are long-lasting and make it very hard for anyone to realize they’re not real. Most fake topiary trees imitate boxwood, which lends well to creating a barrier that protects your privacy outdoors.
Custom artificial topiary
Custom fake topiary is the ideal solution for people who’ve already had experience with topiary and are looking for something unique.
Custom topiary can come in any shape you want - from simple spirals to elaborate man-on-a-horse displays. At Designer Plants, we offer customization options for your topiary like exact measurements, intricate shapes (giraffes, dogs, bulls), color variations, and special features. Here’s something we custom-made for a client:
With a custom piece, you’ll never have to guess whether your topiary fits your space.
Best Locations for Your Artificial Topiary
Since many types of artificial topiary are UV resistant, you can use them both indoors and outdoors. But, unlike a tabletop plant, artificial topiary isn’t the most intuitive type of greenery to decorate with, largely because we don’t often decorate with it in the first place.
If you’re ready to get your first artificial topiary, let’s talk about where to place it.
Indoor fake topiary locations
While you’ll most likely see artificial topiary outside - in gardens, on porches and patios, on the front lawn - it doesn’t mean they can’t look good inside. If you’re intent on using your fake topiary indoors, here are some suggestions on where exactly you could place it:
- Frame the fireplace with 2 artificial topiary balls on each side
- Fill an empty corner with a larger faux topiary ball in an intricate pot
- Line a large staircase with smaller topiary balls
- Place 2 artificial topiary balls at the base of a larger staircase
- Frame the front door on the inside with a set of square artificial topiary plants
These are just a few ideas for what you can do with your new artificial topiary, so if space allows, don’t be hesitant to experiment with other locations as well.
You might not have seen anyone with topiary in their bedroom, but who’s to say you can’t be the first to put it there?
Outdoor fake topiary locations
If, on the other hand, you want to decorate your outdoor space with artificial topiary, there’s one thing you can’t miss - UV resistance. Before you even think about the placement of your fake topiary, you need to ensure the topiary won’t fade from the sun.
All our artificial topiary is UV protected, which you can see in the product’s name, like here:
If you don’t see “UV Resistant” or “Outdoor Proof” in the product name or description, it means it’s made for indoor use and won’t do as well in direct sunlight. Once you have this figured out, place your topiary in an outdoor-grade pot that can withstand the elements.
Now, here are some suggestions for decorating with artificial topiary outside:
- Place it as a standalone piece in your garden
- Frame your outdoor entryway with artificial topiary balls on each side
- Include it in a larger plant display with faux and real greenery
- Use it by the outdoor furniture on your porch or patio
- Line the pathway to the front door with faux topiary balls
Of course, if you have other ideas or have noticed an outdoor location we haven’t mentioned would work well - decorate it!
It’s your space after all - you know it best.
What Size Artificial Topiary Should You Get?
Artificial topiary plants come in various sizes. In most stores, you’ll see an array of smaller topiary you can place on your table or countertop and larger pieces stretching over a few feet.
Of course, there’s a time and place for every fake topiary plant, but it’s not always obvious where and when that is.
So, before we let you go, let’s talk about when you should get big and when small artificial topiary plants.
When to get larger fake topiary
Most of our faux boxwood topiary leans on the larger side. Our artificial topiary balls measure 11” to 17” across, while their height depends on the surface you place them on.
On the other hand, the Premium Potted Artificial Square Topiary stands tall at 21” and comes pre-potted for indoor and outdoor use.
If you want topiary balls but prefer a taller display, get tall pots and place your topiary balls inside as if you’re planting them. Weigh them down with rocks or sand to ensure they don’t fly away with strong winds.
You can also place your artificial topiary in an empty corner so that it doubles as a focal point. Or, you can put it next to another sizeable piece like a fireplace or a console table. Alternatively, you can place your topiary ball outside by the pool or on either side of your front door.
Make sure the space is large enough to accommodate an imposing artificial plant. If you don’t have much space available, it’s better to go small.
When to get smaller fake topiary
On the other hand, smaller artificial topiary plants are a better fit for compact spaces with limited floor space.
This is because larger plants tend to overwhelm small spaces and lead to a room that looks even smaller than it is. Alternatively, small topiary will complement a small room by providing decor without overshadowing the rest of the furniture.
To best use a small fake topiary plant, put it on a bedside or corner table, place other small trinkets around it, and create a bespoke vignette. Or, use it for symmetry and place one plant on either side of a mirror, a window, or a mantel to frame it and draw the eye toward it.
If you’re decorating outdoor spaces, we don’t recommend strewing small plants around, as they could get lost amid the rest of the greenery and commanding furniture.
Finishing Thoughts
Artificial topiary has barely begun shaking the design world.
While it’s still a novel concept, its versatility and quirkiness are unparalleled and ready to help you create a space you’re proud of.
Before purchasing though, it’s always best to research and read some tips. It’s better to be safe than to buy a nice-looking topiary that can’t stand the test of time.
So, what are you waiting for? Check out our collection of artificial topiary and contact us for bespoke advice on what you can do with your pick.