Decorators are becoming more and more aware of the power of silk flowers when it comes to creating a welcoming environment for their clients. The result is that the industry has stepped up; no longer sad plastic creations, silk flowers, or as they have become known, permanent botanicals, are now almost indentical to the real thing, and the differences? They don’t die, drop flowers or leaves, need maintenace or stain anything with their pollen. They don’t cause allergies, attract insects or poison pets. Best of all they are available in a huge range of colors, sizes and textures and, just like the real thing, they go with almost everything.

So, if you have a room which needs just a little touch of color, add silk flowers. But which silk flowers should you add?

Orchids have become extremely popular but somehow lack realism. Many faux plants are useful to soften corners and when spotlit they look fantastic by night, but the most versatile flower in the decorators range is the silk hydrangea.

Pink is ideal of a cottage, while blue is perfect for a beach house decor. White looks cool and elegant anywhere and fabulous in the center of a polished dining table, pale yellow will decorate the guest room and burgundy is the staple of seasonal arrangements. You can even get the antique look of dried flowers from a faux hydrangea , perfect for a traditional or ‘country house’ interior style.

Hydrangeas are common garden plants, they are lovely, but have no rarity value, but don’t let that fool you. The difference between a house with hydrangeas and one without can be the difference between a building full of furniture and a home.