Dried flowers keep their shape and colour far longer than fresh blooms. Exactly how long they last depends on the variety, how they were dried, and where they’re displayed.
Many stems look their best for 6–24 months, and the most durable varieties and preserved foliage can look beautiful for several years with simple care. Keep arrangements away from direct sunlight and humid spots to slow fading and prevent brittleness.
Our experts have put together this guide, which explores the lifespan of popular dried flowers, the preservation methods that extend their life, and the main reasons colours soften over time.
The science of fading: the simple version first
Dried flowers fade fastest in strong light and high humidity. UV light breaks down natural pigments such as anthocyanins and carotenoids, so colours soften over time. Moisture can rehydrate petals and encourage mould, while very dry air can make some stems brittle. Keep arrangements shaded, cool and dry to slow these effects.
Even after drying, flowers are still made of organic material. Over time, gentle decomposition continues, weakening fibres and petals. This is normal, but you can reduce the pace with good display and storage.
Average lifespan of 10 popular dried flowers and foliage
These are typical indoor lifespans with simple care. Individual results vary by light, humidity and handling.
| Flower or foliage | Usual lifespan | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) | 1–3 years | Retains colour and scent best out of direct sunlight. |
| Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus cinerea) | 2–3 years | Air-dried or preserved; scent mellows over time while leaves hold their form. |
| Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla) | 6–12 months | Delicate petals. Handle gently and keep cool and dry. |
| Statice (Limonium sinuatum) | 2–4 years | Papery bracts resist fading and keep their shape well. |
| Pampas grass (Cortaderia selloana) | 3–5 years+ | Plumes can shed. A very light fixative can help; test first and expect more dust on treated fibres. Explore different types of pampas for varied shapes and colours. |
| Papaver (poppy heads) | 2–3 years | Woody pods keep structure with minimal care. |
| Gypsophila (Gypsophila paniculata) | 1–2 years | Tiny clustered blooms hold form. Avoid frequent handling. |
| Roses (Rosa) | 1–3 years | Darker hues may fade sooner. Dust gently with a soft brush. |
| Larkspur (Delphinium) | 6–12 months | Tall spires can shed if moved. Keep out of strong light. |
| Helichrysum (Helichrysum bracteatum) | 2–4 years | Also called strawflower. Crisp bracts are naturally colourfast. |
Shop the look: explore our dried stems and bouquets. Trade and retail orders welcome.
How preservation method affects longevity
The way botanicals are dried or preserved plays a major role in how long they look their best.
- Air drying: hang stems upside down in a dark, ventilated space for a rustic look and moderate longevity.
- Silica gel drying: speeds up drying for many blooms and preserves colour and shape more accurately than air drying.
- Glycerin preservation: best for foliage. Glycerin replaces sap so leaves stay supple for years, with some natural darkening.
- Freeze drying: a professional process that preserves detail with minimal colour loss, popular for keepsake bouquets.
Read more in our guide: how flowers are dried.
Expert and archival preservation: the gold standard
In botanical collections and museums, specimens are often stored in dark, sealed conditions with acid-free materials to slow decay and prevent pests. Even with careful preservation, light and oxygen remain the main drivers of ageing in natural materials.
Environmental factors that shorten or extend lifespan
- Light: avoid direct sun to slow pigment breakdown.
- Humidity: keep dry to prevent drooping and mould. Bathrooms and kitchens shorten lifespan.
- Temperature: cool and stable is best. Heat accelerates deterioration.
- Handling: move arrangements as little as possible to reduce shedding.
This is also why pressing a flower helps it last longer. Pressing removes more moisture, which slows decay further
When to refresh or replace a dried flower arrangement
Update your display if you notice:
- Structural breakdown: stems bend or snap easily.
- Colour loss: colours look washed out or brown.
- Shedding and brittleness: petals, seeds or plumes drop frequently.
Care tips to prolong dried flower life
- Display away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry spot.
- Handle minimally to prevent breakage and shedding.
- Dust with a soft brush or a hairdryer on a low, cool setting.
Read the full dried flower care guide.
Where do dried flowers last the longest?
- Wedding bouquets: stored in a cool, dark box they can last for many years. On open display they may fade within a year due to light.
- Seasonal arrangements: wreaths and garlands often last through a season and can be reused for 1–2 years if stored carefully in the dark and dry.
- Indoors vs outdoors: indoor displays away from sun and moisture last much longer than outdoor pieces exposed to weather.
Browse more botanicals: see our full dried flower collection or pair with preserved eucalyptus for texture and longevity.
Ask the experts
What is the best thing to do with dried flowers?
Style them in vases, wreaths and bouquets, or use them for craft projects. Try these florist tips for styling dried flowers and ideas for using dried flowers in a creative side hustle.
Do dried flowers go bad?
They do not spoil like fresh flowers, but they will fade and become more fragile over time. Depending on type, method and environment, they can last several months to a few years. Signs they are past their best include colour loss, shedding and brittle stems.
Do dried flowers need water?
No. Avoid water and steam. Moisture can cause drooping or mould. Display in a dry container only. Read more in our guide do dried flowers need water.
Do you have to store dried flowers specially?
Yes. Store in a sturdy box in a cool, dry and dark place to protect from light, humidity and crushing. Keep them away from frequent handling. See our how to store dried flowers guide.
Do dried flowers last forever?
No. With good care, some stems and preserved foliages last several years, but all natural materials soften in colour or become fragile with time. Artificial flowers offer the longest-lasting alternative.
About the author:
Rob Copsey
Rob Copsey is the founder of Atlas Flowers, a London-based wholesale supplier specialising in high-quality, sustainably sourced dried, preserved, and artificial flowers. With deep roots in horticulture and a family legacy in the flower industry spanning four generations, Rob has nurtured a lifelong passion for the natural world. Since launching Atlas Flowers in 2006, he has maintained a strong commitment to environmental responsibility, collaborating with growers worldwide to source exceptional products with minimal ecological impact. Under his leadership, Atlas Flowers has grown into one of the UK’s leading suppliers, known for providing unique, eco-friendly floral options to florists, retailers, and beyond.
Published: July 2025