The Best Realistic Faux Garlands for Christmas 2025

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Let’s be real – finding a Christmas garland that actually looks real is no small feat. We all want that lush, full, natural look that transforms our home into a cozy holiday wonderland – without the mess of dried pine needles or the hassle of replacing greenery every year.

After years of trying every option out there, I’ve rounded up the most realistic faux garlands for 2025 – the ones that truly look (and feel) like the real thing. Whether you prefer soft cedar, drapey Norfolk pine, or pre-lit mixed greens, these are the best garlands for Christmas that will last for seasons to come.

What to Look For in a Realistic Faux Garland

Not all artificial garlands are created equal — and trust me, I’ve tested enough to know the difference between “wow, that’s stunning” and “oh no, that looks like plastic.”

Here’s what makes a faux garland look truly realistic:

Weight: Realistic garlands have substance. Lightweight options tend to look stiff and fake, while heavier garlands drape beautifully.
Texture: Look for “real touch” or “soft-touch” materials – they mimic the feel of fresh greenery.
Color Variation: Real branches aren’t one flat green. The best artificial garlands have depth, with lighter tips, darker bases, and brown stems.
Flexibility: You want a garland that bends and moves easily so you can shape it naturally around railings, mantels, or door frames.
Length Options: Choose longer sizes (like 180″) for stairs and doorways, and shorter (6–8 ft) for mantels or tables.

Pro Tip: To make faux garlands look even more lifelike, layer two or more different styles – like a Norfolk pine garland topped with a faux cedar garland – for extra fullness and texture.

The Most Realistic Faux Garland for Christmas 2025

1. Afloral Real Touch Norfolk Pine Garland

If you buy one garland this year, make it this one.

The Afloral Real Touch Norfolk Pine Garland is, hands down, the best faux garland I’ve ever used — and I’ve tested dozens. It’s gone viral on social media for a reason: soft-touch branches, beautiful drape, and that perfect “fresh cut” look.

Norfolk pine garland draped over a mantel with mustard yellow ribbon, and green plaid stockings hung under the mantel — This is 4 Norfolk Pine garlands with one cedar on top for added dimension and texture.

Why I love it: It’s soft, flexible, and hangs naturally without looking stiff.
Best for: Stair railings, mantels, and door frames.
Lengths: 60″, 96″ and 180″ (the longest option is perfect for staircases).
Bonus Tip: Layer one cedar garland on top for a fuller, more dimensional look.
Budget-Friendly Alternative: This Real Touch Norfolk Pine Garland on Amazon offers a similar look at a more affordable price – great if you need multiple for larger spaces.

artificial pine garland on a mantel with string lights and 3 candles lit on the mantel

I started with one Afloral Norfolk Pine garladn a few years ago and now own seven. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s gone viral every holiday season.

2. Afloral Real Touch Cedar Garland

The perfect companion to the Norfolk pine, this real-touch cedar garland adds texture and depth, but is also equally stunning on its own.

It’s soft, pliable, and ideal for layering over your main garland or draping over mirrors, sideboards, and mantels for a designer look.

Pro tip: Mix in mini fairy lights for a warm glow that highlights the texture.

mantel with artificial Norfolk Pine garland draped over it, ribbon on the sides and bells draped underneath — Norfolk pine & cedar garlands layered

Why it’s great: The fine needles and muted green tone make it look like real cedar.
Pairs well with: Norfolk pine, eucalyptus, or seeded faux greens.

3. Pottery Barn Artificial Cedar Garland

Pottery Barn never disappoints with their holiday greenery, and this artificial cedar garland is no exception.

It’s incredibly full — one of the lushest options available — and comes in a two-pack, making it perfect for large mantels or wide doorways.

Why it’s worth it: The fullness means you can skip adding extra picks or berries.
Best for: Statement mantels or grand staircases.
Look: Deep, rich green tones that photograph beautifully.

4. Pine and Eucalyptus Garland

This Pine and Eucalyptus Garland blends two styles – traditional pine with modern eucalyptus – for a fresh, elegant twist on Christmas greenery. It’s a top pick if you want something that feels current yet timeless.

Pine and eucalyptus garland hanging from stair railing

Why I love it: The combination of real-touch pine, eucalyptus, and pinecones gives it depth and texture.
Length: Typically 6 feet — perfect for layering, dining tables, or staircases.
Best for: A natural, organic look that complements both classic and minimalist holiday decor.
Bonus Tip: Add battery-operated micro lights to highlight the eucalyptus leaves and make the garland pop at night.

5. Real Touch Cedar and Hemlock

Thick, lush, and with almost all five-star reviews (over 14,000 of them!), this Real Touch Cedar & Hemlock Garland is one of the best-reviewed artificial garlands available.

Why it’s great: Soft-touch cedar and hemlock blend that feels weighty and hangs beautifully – just like fresh-cut greenery.
Best for: Mantels, door frames, or wrapping stair railings.
Look: Realistic branches with subtle color variation for extra depth.
Pro Tip: It’s often available on Amazon — grab it early before it sells out during the holiday rush.

Best Pre-Lit Artificial Garlands

If you want to skip stringing lights (and who doesn’t?), pre-lit garlands are a lifesaver. These are my favorites that balance convenience with realism:

Pottery Barn Pre-Lit Eucalyptus & Pine Garland: Elegant and modern, with soft LED lights and a lush mix of greens.
Crate & Barrel Faux Hemlock Garland: A timeless, classic style with a subtle glow. Slightly thinner, but perfect for layering.
Balsam Hill LED Cedar Garland: Pricey, but incredibly realistic and long-lasting — ideal for entryways or mantels.

How to Make Faux Garland Look Real

Even the best artificial garlands need a little styling magic. These are my go-to tricks for making faux greenery look fresh, natural, and expensive:

Fluff each branch before hanging – separate and bend them for natural movement.
Layer textures – mix pine, cedar, or eucalyptus for a custom designer look.
Hide seams – overlap ends or cover joins with ribbon, bells, or ornaments.
Add natural accents – tuck in fresh clippings or faux berries for depth.
Drape naturally – let it hang in soft curves instead of straight lines.

Designer Tip: Let your garlands “relax” overnight after unboxing so they lose the box shape – you’ll get that effortless drape every time.

Preserved & Fresh Garland Alternatives

If you still love the smell (and look) of real greenery, preserved and fresh garlands are a beautiful option. This Fresh Eucalyptus Garland is both breathtaking and fragrant, and dries beautifully if you want to keep it long-term.

Final Thoughts: The Best Garland for Christmas 2025

Whether you go with soft-touch cedar, drapey Norfolk pine, or a modern pine-and-eucalyptus mix, today’s realistic faux garlands are more lifelike than ever.