Two thoughts:
I wonder how cheap you could put accelerometer (or pressure sensor) on this, so it would flutter and flare when moved or blown on.
I found when converting old lanterns to stage use that multiple bulbs can sometimes be more pleasing. What about three to five ultra-mini LEDs all packed together, to give some "movement" to the flame?
I like the suggestion of re-purposing tea bulbs. Way back when, I found hand-pressed hot glue (from a hot glue gun) could make an optically pleasing shape.