Everyone loves a bit of greenery in their surroundings, but not all of us were born with a green thumb, and that’s okay. Between watering schedules, sunlight needs, pest drama, and seasonal shedding, real plants can feel like another thing on the to-do list.
To escape all the responsibilities and enjoy all the benefits of plants, we present you with stylish, stress-free, and stunning all year long: artificial plants. But buying faux plants online isn’t just about picking the prettiest leaf in the listing photo. There are a lot of aspects, like quality, safety, and longevity, that you need to consider before bringing home an artificial green friend. So, before you click "add to cart," let’s walk through everything you should keep in mind when shopping for artificial greenery online.
Material Matters: What’s It Made Of?
The first thing you want to do when browsing artificial plants online is take a good look (or read) into what they’re made of. High-quality faux plants typically use a mix of plastic, polyester, and sometimes silk for a more realistic finish. But not all plastics are created equal. The better ones, like PE (polyethylene) or PEVA (polyethylene vinyl acetate), tend to hold their shape well and mimic the natural texture of leaves.
Avoid listings that don’t mention the materials at all or only vaguely say “plastic.” That usually means it’s a mass-produced, shiny-surface leaf that might look more like a dollar-store Halloween decoration than a lush indoor ficus. Materials influence not just appearance, but also durability, weight, and environmental safety.
Check for RoHS Compliance
You might have seen RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliance labels when shopping for electronics, but it’s also relevant for artificial plants. That’s because lower-quality plastics can sometimes contain harmful chemicals like lead, cadmium, or phthalates. RoHS compliance ensures the product limits or excludes these substances altogether.
A RoHS-compliant faux plant means you’re bringing something into your home that’s not only safer for you but also kinder to the environment. If you're particularly cautious about the materials you surround yourself with, look for this certification in the product description or contact the seller for details.
Non-Toxic Stabilizers
Most people don’t think twice about what’s keeping their artificial plants sturdy and fade resistant. But here’s the inside knowledge, some stabilizers used in plastics are full of toxins. Thankfully, many forward-thinking manufacturers now use non-toxic stabilizers, especially in plants designed for indoor use.
These stabilizers help the plants maintain colour and texture without releasing harmful chemicals into the air. When shopping online, keep an eye out for products labeled as “non-toxic,” “eco-friendly,” or “BPA-free.” Brands that openly list these features usually have your health and indoor air quality in mind.
Low Off-Gassing is a Big Deal (Especially Indoors)
You know that weird “plastic smell” that sometimes hits you when you open a new package? That’s off-gassing, which is the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from synthetic materials. It can be harmless in small doses but isn’t something you want lingering in your bedroom or office all day.
Low-off-gassing artificial plants are your best bet if you want to avoid unpleasant odours or respiratory irritation. Look for items that are labelled as “low-VOC” or products specifically designed for interior spaces. If possible, opt for plants that have passed third-party safety tests or are made by brands that specialize in hypoallergenic or child-friendly décor.
Pet and Kid Safe
If you’ve got curious pets or little ones running around the house, safety is a must. Real plants can be toxic, but some artificial ones can be just as risky if they shed small parts or are treated with unsafe chemicals.
Choose artificial plants that are labelled “pet-safe” or “child-safe,” and preferably ones with sturdy construction that won’t shed plastic bits if knocked over. It's also helpful if the product mentions flame retardancy or other safety features, especially if the plants are going near light fixtures or electronics. A safe space is a stylish space, after all.
Durability & Longevity
Artificial plants should be an investment that lasts, not a cheap thrill that falls apart after a few months. So, when you’re buying online, read reviews to get a sense of how long the plant holds up. The most durable artificial plants often have wired stems that allow bending without breaking, UV protection, especially for plants placed near windows or on balconies, and weather-resistant coatings if they’re meant for outdoor use. If longevity matters to you, go for trusted brands that offer product warranties or satisfaction guarantees.
Realistic Over Plastic
You’re probably buying artificial plants because you want something that looks real without the real-life hassle. So don’t settle for leaves that look like they were printed on a piece of laminated paper. High-quality faux plants have texture, variation in colour, and even imperfections that mimic the natural look of real foliage.
Zoom in on photos, look for close-up shots, and don’t be afraid to check out user-submitted pictures in reviews. Plants that have mixed leaf tones, matte finishes, and natural branch structuring tend to look more authentic. Bonus points if the listing mentions hand-painted detailing or textured veins on the leaves.
Ease of Maintenance
The beauty of artificial plants is that you don’t have to water them, but they do get dusty. So, consider how easy it’ll be to clean them. Plants with broad leaves or minimal crevices are easier to wipe down. Avoid overly intricate designs if you’re not up for the occasional deep clean.
If the product description mentions that it’s “easy to clean with a damp cloth” or even “washable,” that’s a green flag. Nobody wants to spend half an hour trying to get dust out of the faux fern in the corner.
Weight and Stability
An often-overlooked factor is how stable the plant is. You don’t want something that tips over every time someone walks past. Heavier bases made of concrete, resin, or weighted plastic are ideal, especially for taller plants.
Some listings will mention whether the plant comes with a pot or just the insert. If it's just the insert, you’ll need to repot it yourself, so be ready with your own weighted container and maybe some moss or decorative stones to help with the finishing touch.
Transparency from Sellers
A good rule of thumb for online shopping? If they’re not telling you what it’s made of or how it’s built, it’s probably not worth your time or money. Reputable sellers will list materials, dimensions, safety standards, and care instructions clearly. If you’re left guessing or have to dig through ten tabs to find out if it’s child-safe, move along.
Also, don’t underestimate the value of a responsive customer service team. If a seller can confidently answer your questions about materials, VOC levels, or compliance certifications, it’s a sign they stand by their product.
Conclusion
Buying artificial plants online can be a fun and satisfying experience as long as you’re equipped with the right info. From safety and sustainability to aesthetics and authenticity, there’s a lot more that goes into a good fake than just how green it looks.
So, next time you’re scrolling through your favourite home decor site or adding a Monstera to your wishlist, take a minute to dig a little deeper into what it’s made of, how it’s built, and whether it fits into the lifestyle and air quality you want in your space. Your future self and your living room will thank you.
