Styling the Magnolia Tree with Moss (Featuring Chase Hill)
Make the Most with Moss
There’s an art to styling faux botanicals — one that balances lifelike realism with timeless design. At CG Hunter, our goal has always been to elevate artificial trees into statement-making elements of luxury home decor. One of the most beautiful examples of this vision is our 7' Magnolia Tree. Full of rich green foliage and architectural shape, this tree stands tall as a sculptural piece on its own. But in the hands of a talented stylist like Chase Hill, it transforms into something even more striking: a nature-inspired focal point brought to life with moss.
This blog explores the styling method behind Chase’s Magnolia tree design, the details that set this piece apart, and how you can create a similar look in your own home. By using natural elements like moss to enhance the base, you add a fresh, designer-approved touch that takes the faux to fabulous.
The Magnolia Tree: Why It’s a Favorite
Magnolia trees are beloved for their glossy leaves, sculptural form, and classic Southern charm. Our magnolia captures that beauty with careful realism — every branch, every shade variation, every leaf angle is crafted to echo the real thing. The substantial height makes it ideal for corners, entryways, or open-plan rooms where vertical interest matters.
But the secret to elevating any faux tree lies in the styling. Chase Hill's approach, as shown in his recent Instagram feature, reminds us that the base of a faux tree shouldn't be overlooked. By topping the black plastic pot with layers of soft, textural moss, he created a transition from artificial to organic — fooling the eye and adding warmth to the scene.
Why Moss Makes the Difference
In our CG Hunter blog about moss, we explore how preserved and natural moss can breathe life into faux decor. Whether it's Spanish moss, sheet moss, or reindeer moss, these materials soften the boundaries between decor and nature. When added to the base of a faux plant, moss adds realism, texture, and depth. It helps anchor the design and serves as a beautiful contrast to the upright lines of a tree.
For the Magnolia tree, we recommend using a variety of preserved mosses to build dimension. Gently tuck the moss around the trunk, pressing it into the pot or basket of your choice. The result? A polished, high-end finish that gives the impression of something living and rooted — even if it's delightfully maintenance-free.
Chase Hill’s Approach to Styling
One of the things we admire most about Chase Hill is his effortless blend of organic styling and tailored spaces. His home feels welcoming and lived-in, yet thoughtfully layered. When styling our Magnolia tree, Chase opted for a minimalist approach that allowed the tree’s natural shape to shine. The key was the subtle but impactful addition of moss, which elevated the base without overwhelming it.
Instead of using a decorative basket or planter, he let the black pot disappear visually by layering moss generously. This decision emphasized the tree’s vertical shape and kept the focus on the foliage. By keeping the surrounding space neutral and minimal, the Magnolia became a bold architectural element in the room.
Tips to Recreate This Look
Adding moss to your faux trees isn’t just about realism—it’s a stylistic decision that elevates your entire room. As J. Cathell notes in her guide to styling houseplants, moss provides “a more finished and intentional look,” offering that polished, designer aesthetic that makes even the simplest tree feel high-end. Whether you're using sheet moss for a sleek surface or Spanish moss for a touch of wild texture, it visually softens the base of the plant and blends the faux with the natural. This technique works beautifully with our Magnolia Tree, enhancing its already lifelike appearance and grounding it in elegance. Here are some of our favorite tips for adding moss to your plants.
1. Start with the Right Tree: Not all faux trees are created equal. Our 7' Magnolia Tree is a favorite because of its scale, detail, and versatility. It’s large enough to command attention, yet soft enough to blend into a variety of decor styles — from transitional to modern farmhouse.
2. Use Real Moss: Visit a local craft store or shop online for preserved sheet moss or Spanish moss. You can layer different types together for a natural, textural effect. Gently press the moss around the base and mist lightly to fluff it up.
3. Choose Your Vessel: While Chase left the tree in its original pot, you can also place the base into a woven basket or low ceramic planter. Just be sure to fill the space between the pot and the basket with moss to hide any gaps.
4. Balance the Scene: Let the Magnolia take center stage by keeping nearby elements understated. Neutral walls, natural fiber rugs, and earthy accessories complement the organic texture of moss and greenery.
The Bigger Picture: Why Styling Matters
Styling is what turns a piece of decor into a statement. It’s not just about placement — it’s about the little choices: moss instead of filler, subtle textures instead of plastic shine. Chase’s Magnolia tree styling proves that thoughtful detail goes a long way. A simple addition like moss transforms the visual story, giving the entire scene a collected, organic feel.
At CG Hunter, we believe in styling as a form of storytelling. It’s not about filling space — it’s about creating mood, meaning, and memory. When you take the time to style with intention, you bring soul into your space. And when the pieces themselves are beautifully crafted, the styling becomes effortless.
Inspired by Nature, Designed for Living
As more designers and homeowners look to blend indoor and outdoor aesthetics, the role of greenery — both real and faux — continues to grow. In our collections, we strive to offer pieces that mimic nature’s beauty without requiring its upkeep. The Magnolia tree is a shining example: lifelike, sculptural, and endlessly adaptable.
Whether you’re placing it in an entryway, framing a fireplace, or softening a corner, the tree adds instant presence. When paired with moss, it exudes a subtle elegance that’s at once luxurious and approachable. This is decor that feels alive, that brings calm, and that evolves with the seasons.
Share Your Styling Story
We love seeing how our customers bring CG Hunter pieces to life. If you’ve styled your Magnolia tree — or any of our other faux botanicals — share it with us on Instagram, Pinterest, or TikTok.
For more inspiration, be sure to explore our blog library and follow along for future styling tips, trend forecasts, and design ideas. From our handmade wreaths to our best faux olive trees, each piece is selected to bring beauty and balance to your space — with or without a green thumb.
