There is something undeniably special about bringing nature indoors. Fresh blooms brighten a room instantly and carry a scent that can lift your mood in seconds. But let’s be honest, there is always that slight tinge of regret when they eventually fade. You get attached to a bouquet, and a week later, it’s time to say goodbye.
That is exactly why everlasting flowers have made such a massive comeback in recent years. They bridge the gap between wanting botanical beauty in your home and wanting it to stay put. Whether you are a gardening enthusiast or someone who struggles to keep a cactus alive, understanding the world of permanent botanicals opens up a whole new way to decorate.
The Essence of Being "Everlasting"
So, what actually counts as an everlasting flower? It is a broad umbrella term.
Basically, it covers any floral material that has been processed or manufactured to maintain its form and beauty for months—or even years—rather than days. It isn’t just about stopping the clock; it is about capturing a moment in the flower's life and holding it there.
This isn't a modern invention. We humans have been trying to preserve the fleeting beauty of nature for centuries. The Victorians, for instance, were obsessed with the language of flowers and often dried their posies to keep sentimental messages alive.
Today, we see this tradition continuing in modern homes, where the rustic, textural look of dried florals fits perfectly with everything from farmhouse chic to minimalist aesthetics.
Breaking Down the Everlasting Flower Types
When you start shopping for longevity, you will usually encounter three distinct categories. It is important to know the difference because they look, feel, and age differently.
Dried Flowers
These are the classics. This method involves removing moisture from the plant material, usually by hanging it upside down or using drying agents like silica gel. Think of strawflowers, statice, or baby’s breath.
- The look: They tend to have a rustic, matte finish. The colours are often muted or vintage-toned.
- The feel: They are brittle and papery. You have to handle them with care.
Preserved Flowers
This is where science meets nature. Preserved flowers are natural blooms that have undergone a special rehydration process. The sap is replaced with a mixture involving glycerin and other plant-based elements.
- The look: They look incredibly fresh. A preserved rose often looks exactly like it was just picked.
- The feel: Unlike dried flowers, these stay soft and pliable. They don't crumble when you touch them.
Artificial Flowers
We aren't talking about the cheap, plastic-looking stems from the dollar store of the 90s. High-quality artificials (often called "silks" or "real touch") are made from advanced materials like latex, silk, and polymers.
- The pros: They are hypoallergenic and virtually indestructible. If you have a dark hallway where nothing grows, these are your best friends.
Bringing Them Into Your Space
The beauty of everlasting flowers lies in their versatility. Without the need for water, you aren't restricted to a vase on the kitchen bench.
Home Décor
Because they don't need light or water, everlasting arrangements are perfect for "dead zones" in the house. Bathrooms (watch the humidity though), high shelves, or guest rooms that aren't used often are prime real estate. Wreaths are another massive category here—a dried flower wreath can adorn an internal door or a wall for seasons, not just weeks.
Events and Gifting
There is a practical side to this, too. Everlasting flowers are becoming a go-to for gifts, especially for occasions like "Get Well Soon" hampers or corporate gestures. Why? Because they don't give the recipient a job to do. There are no stems to trim, no water to change, and no dropped petals to sweep up.
For someone recovering in a hospital or busy with a new baby, a low-maintenance gift is a thoughtful one.
Crafts and Aromatherapy
Beyond just looking good, many everlasting plants, specifically dried ones like lavender, retain their scent. They are fantastic for making sachets for drawers or incorporating into DIY potpourri.
Care and Maintenance
While we call them "everlasting," nothing lasts forever if you treat it poorly. However, with the right environment, you can extend the life of these blooms significantly.
The Golden Rules for Dried and Preserved Blooms:
- No Water: This is the most critical rule. Water will cause the stems to mould and rot. Keep them bone dry.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Just like a photograph left in the sun, UV rays will bleach the colour out of dried and preserved flowers. Keep them away from harsh window light to maintain those vibrant hues.
- Humidity is the Enemy: High moisture can make dried flowers go limp or mouldy, and it can cause preserved flowers to "sweat" (leak dye). Bathrooms might be tricky unless you have great ventilation.
- Dusting: Dust will settle eventually. The best trick is to use a hairdryer on the coolest and lowest setting to gently blow the dust away. A soft makeup brush works well for more delicate petals.
Artificial Flower Care: These are much hardier. You can usually wipe them down with a damp cloth or use a specialised silk flower cleaning spray. They don't mind the sun as much, though even plastic can fade over years of intense exposure.
Timeless Beauty at Thanks A Bunch
At Thanks A Bunch, we have watched the popularity of everlasting flowers soar, and quite frankly, we understand the obsession. While we have built our reputation since 2006 on providing the freshest cut flowers in Melbourne, our team has also curated a stunning collection of permanent botanicals for those who want that "forever" feeling.
We take the same approach to our everlasting range as we do our fresh blooms—quality is everything. Because we aren't a relay florist, every arrangement is designed and created right here by our talented team.
If you are looking for those rich, warm tones, our Autumn Everlasting and Winter Everlasting arrangements bring a cosy, seasonal vibe that stays perfect all year round. For something brighter, the Summer Everlasting or Spring Garden Everlasting offers that burst of joy without the maintenance.
We also specialise in the incredible Forever Roses—available in Pink, Red, and White. These are real roses that have been expertly preserved to last up to a year or more. They are an impeccable choice for anniversaries or romantic gestures.
Whether you are looking for a Gold Everlasting centrepiece to make a statement, or a Rose Bear for a fun gift, we handle your order with care. We deliver across Melbourne, ensuring that what you see on our site is exactly what arrives at your door.
Ready to add some permanent beauty to your home? Explore our full Everlasting Flowers collection here .
