apartment help: something green/floral/alive?

While I was back home in Chicago, I was able to see the wonderful Danielle, and I fell in love with her apartment. Seriously. It is so cozy and welcoming, and her pup is beyond precious. She recently remodeled her entryway, and she had one item that had me drooling.

What you ask?

Tree branches.

Yes, tree branches. She had a tall cylinder glass with even taller brown tree branches in various sizes. Why was I drooling? Because I've desperately been trying to find something "living" to put in my apartment. I have a serious aversion to ugly office type green plants that look generic and unwelcoming. 

Gross.

I try and buy flowers at least once every two weeks, and put them in my bedroom, and on my coffee table. Like so...

However, I want something that is more low maintenance, like Danielle's branches. 

This is where I need your help. Any recommendations on how to add a living element to my NYC apartment? Here is some current inspiration. 

Branches Inspiration

Flower inspiration -- because they do look so pretty.

 

Fake flowers? Not completely sold on the idea yet. Any recommendations for how to use them?

I think for now I'm hung up on incorporating branches into my place...somewhere. 

Also, don't forget to enter my Heartfish Press giveaway -- winner will be announced Friday!