After killing three sets of topiaries, I decided the faux route may be the most responsible thing to do. I planted two of these in large urns that are placed outside my front door.  After enduring a very long and very bitter winter, these topiaries still look as new as the day I got them. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is going to be using this outdoors.  While I am sure they vary, the two I received are very full and lifelike. 

Pros: Full, Heavy, Durable, lifelike 
Cons: none