Top 4 Fall Branches to Elevate Your Floral Designs: Nandina, Copper Beech, Japanese Maple, and Liquidambar

As the air cools and leaves start to change, bringing autumnal branches into your designs is a beautiful way to celebrate the season. We’re sharing a few of our absolute favorite branches to add texture, color, and seasonal flair to your bouquets, boutonnieres, and arrangements. These branches are showstoppers on their own, yet also work seamlessly alongside flowers for a warm, layered effect. If you’re new to working with branches, don’t miss our Spring Branch Flower Guide for tips on cutting and prepping branches for longevity.

Here’s our list of must-have fall branches:

Nandina

Nandina, also known as heavenly bamboo, is one of our go-to fall choices for its smaller leaves that transition beautifully through the season. The leaves start out green but develop red and orange tips, creating a rich, painterly effect. Nandina's smaller, airy leaves make it perfect for adding a delicate, seasonal touch to bouquets and boutonnieres without overpowering other elements. Its compact leaves are ideal for any arrangement where a softer, textural addition is needed. Often times it will come with a few berries which are very cute!

Copper Beech

Copper beech is a preserved branch that brings an intense pop of orange (or brown, if you prefer a more subtle tone) to arrangements. This branch adds striking color and is especially easy to work with. Since it’s preserved, copper beech is best kept out of water to maintain its look—otherwise, the leaves might curl. Because it’s been treated with dye, it’s also best to avoid placing it in water, as the dye can leach and discolor the water. Copper beech is an easy way to add autumn warmth and durability to arrangements, making it a great choice for long-lasting displays.

Japanese Maple

For a more dramatic, moody look, Japanese maple is stunning with its deep burgundy leaves and delicate, intricate shape. The fine leaves add a sense of movement and a touch of elegance to any design. Japanese maple can be used alone for a minimalist, sculptural piece, or layered into fuller arrangements for a burst of color that leans into fall's moody, sophisticated tones.

Liquidambar (Sweetgum)

If you’re looking for a bold, larger-leafed option, Liquidambar, also known as sweetgum, is perfect. These leaves start out in a bright, vibrant chartreuse and transition into vivid shades of orange and red. Liquidambar branches bring a bigger visual impact with their maple-like shape and colorful gradient, making them ideal for adding volume and a full, autumnal palette to your arrangements.

Using these branches can take your fall florals to a new level, giving them depth, structure, and an unmistakable seasonal charm. Most wholesalers can supply these branches to you in season if you aren’t able to forage! For tips on cutting and preparing branches for maximum impact, check out our Spring Branch Flower Guide. Embrace the beauty of fall with these textural elements, and enjoy the warmth and color they bring to your designs.