We often get this question.  What is rattan, bamboo, wicker, resin rattan, cane...etc etc etc.  We get it, it can be confusing.  For the concerning consumer, you want to know what you are buying.  And as an eco friendly brand, we want you to know the difference as you shop around.  So we're going to break it down for you, because we believe knowledge is power :).

RATTAN 

Rattan is a plant from Southeast Asia.  It is closely related to the palm tree and grows like a tree.  It is one of the strongest woods in the world, with close to 600 types in its family.   Ranging from thin to thick, different varieties are used depending on the look of the piece.  It is a natural and sustainable product.

BAMBOO

Bamboo is another sustainable plant.  It is a grass from the plant family known as Poacea and grows fast and strong.  Because of how hearty it grows, it is a reliable source of wood.  You can often tell the difference between bamboo and rattan from its thickness and marks.  Bamboo tends to be a thicker wood, so many pieces will have a thicker frame then that of rattan.  

CANE

Cane is also rattan, but the rattan skin.  Rattan skin is often used in caning, the weaving of rattan skin.  It can be found as an accent on rattan furniture.  Cane is a sustainable product.

CANING ON OUR BOTANICA

WICKER

This is probably where we tend to be most confused.  Many of us think wicker is a plant.  But wicker simply refers to the type of weaving.  Many traditional patio furnitures use this type of weaving in their pieces.   It can often be identified by the basket like look .  Wicker can be weaved using a variety of materials.  

• rattan
• bamboo
• cane
• reed
• seagrass