Published March 17, 2025

Updated March 18, 2025

Preserved Flowers vs. Artificial Flowers: What’s the Difference?

Imaginary Worlds ships worldwide — discover how Forever Roses are celebrated across more than 20 countries, from Paris to Seoul.

👉 discover how Forever Roses are celebrated across more than 20 countries, from Paris to Seoul

The allure of flowers has captivated us for centuries. But as fresh flowers inevitably wilt, many seek long-lasting alternatives. Enter two popular options - preserved flowers and artificial flowers. While both cater to the need for durability and beauty, they differ significantly in materials, appearance, and overall value. If you’ve been wondering which to choose, this guide will walk you through their key distinctions. At the forefront of luxurious floral design is Imaginary Worlds, a brand that elevates preserved roses into timeless masterpieces with a sustainable edge. But first, let’s break down what preserved and artificial flowers are all about.

What Are Preserved Flowers?

Preserved flowers are real flowers that undergo a special process to retain their natural beauty for years. By doing so, they maintain the look and feel of freshly-picked blooms without requiring water or sunlight.

How Are Preserved Flowers Made?

The magic lies in their intricate preservation process:

Careful Selection: Only the highest-quality fresh flowers are chosen.
Dehydration: The flowers are treated to remove natural water and sap.
Preservation Solution: A glycerin-based solution replaces the sap, keeping the petals soft and vibrant.

This process ensures the flowers retain their original shape, color, and texture without compromising their authenticity.

Key Features of Preserved Flowers:

100% Real: Made entirely from natural flowers.
Long-Lasting: Can last 1-3 years or more with proper care.
Natural Appearance: Soft petals and vibrant hues replicate the beauty of fresh blooms.
Versatile Colors: Available in natural tones and uniquely dyed shades.

Whether for gifting or decor, preserved flowers combine nature’s beauty with innovation to deliver lasting elegance.

What Are Artificial Flowers?

Artificial flowers are man-made replicas of flowers crafted from synthetic materials like silk, plastic, foam, or fabric. They mimic the appearance of fresh flowers but aren’t real.

How Are Artificial Flowers Made?

Manufacturing artificial flowers involves:

Material Selection: Silk, plastic, or polyester are commonly used.
Mass Production: Often manufactured in factories at scale.
Assembly & Detailing: Petals, stems, and leaves are pieced together for visual effect.

While artificial flowers offer convenience, their resemblance to real flowers varies widely depending on quality.

Key Features of Artificial Flowers:

Synthetic Materials: Made from silk, plastic, or fabric.
Durable: Can last indefinitely but may fade or accumulate dust over time.
Variety: Available in a broad spectrum of colors and sizes, though some may appear overly uniform or unnatural.
Low Maintenance: Requires occasional dusting to stay clean.

Artificial flowers are often budget-friendly and available everywhere, from craft stores to home decor brands.

Key Differences Between Preserved and Artificial Flowers

Feature	Preserved Flowers	Artificial Flowers
Material	100% real flowers	Synthetic materials like silk or foam
Appearance	Natural, soft, and fresh-like	May look artificial or uniform
Touch/Texture	Soft, similar to fresh flowers	Often stiff or waxy
Fragrance	Retains light, natural floral scent	No scent unless artificially added
Longevity	1-3 years with care	Lasts indefinitely but may fade
Maintenance	Minimal (avoid sunlight & humidity)	Requires regular dusting
Eco-Friendliness	More sustainable, biodegradable	Often made from non-biodegradable plastics
Price	Higher due to real flower preservation	Typically more affordable

When comparing preserved flowers vs. artificial flowers, consider appearance, texture, and sustainability to find the best fit for your needs.

Why Choose Preserved Flowers Over Artificial Flowers?

Preserved flowers bring a level of authenticity, luxury, and sustainability that artificial flowers can’t match. Here’s why they’re worth it for eco-conscious consumers and thoughtful gift-givers alike.

Elegant & Luxurious

The soft, natural texture of preserved flowers makes them ideal for romantic gifts and high-end home decor. Collections from Imaginary Worlds, such as Custom Rose Boxes or Preserved Rose Lamps, exemplify understated elegance.

Eco-Friendly & Sustainable

Unlike artificial flowers, which are often made using plastic, preserved flowers are more sustainable and biodegradable. They last longer than fresh flowers, reducing overall waste while adding a touch of nature to your home.

Meaningful Gifting

Preserved roses, being real flowers, carry sentimental value that artificial flowers lack. Whether it’s for anniversaries, Mother’s Day, or a special milestone, they make gifts that are both unique and heartfelt.

Best Occasions for Preserved Flowers

Preserved flowers are perfect for these moments and milestones:

Romantic Gifts

26 Forever Roses Personalized Photo Rose Box