Many artificial palms are very lifelike.
Almost any artificial palm can be used outside in the right circumstances. Artificial plants are often used to decorate patios or yards, giving the illusion of greenery without the maintenance. Sometimes people just want to decorate for a special occasion, like a party or barbecue, and don't want to re-landscape. Artificial palms can look great for a long time, but they have their limitations. For example, some types will bleach in the sunlight, and others can't take any kind of moisture. Does this Spark an idea?
Plastic
Plastic artificial plants aren't all that common anymore, but they used to be very popular and can still be found from time to time. Artificial palms made from plastic are moisture resistant and sturdy, but they don't look very realistic and they date the decor. Although they will retain their shape, after a season in the sun, plastic palms will begin to bleach out and look blue compared to living plants. In a covered outdoor area, the color may last longer but will still eventually fade. Plastic palm trees need to be replaced almost every season.
Silk
The most common forms of artificial palms by far are those with silk leaves. Silk fabric is cut in the shape of leaves and painted or stained. Artificial palm trees made with silk are often very realistic in appearance. They often have woody stocks or stems from real plants. They are widely used for interior decor, but can be used outside on decks, patios or in the yard. They can take exposure to some water but not rain showers, because they will droop just like anything made of fabric would; and if the leaves are connected with glue, the water may loosen the leaves. In sunlight, the silk palm fronds will fade to a bluish color. In protected areas, they will still fade and deteriorate, but at a slower pace.
Preserved
A preserved palm was once a living palm or the leaves were taken from a living palm. The leaves are treated with special chemicals and dyes to retain their life-like appearance. These are the most life-like, and can often fool those not familiar with plants. However, they are also the most delicate, and should only be used outside temporarily, like when entertaining on a patio or deck. They will not tolerate moisture and the sun will cause fading and brittleness.
Specialty
There are artificial palm trees in warm areas that disguise cell phone towers. The "trunk" is often painted a natural color similar to those of local palm trees, and the leaves are made of durable plastic. There are even artificial palm trees that disguise solar panels and wind turbines, and are made of durable plastic and steel. Although these structures aren't life-like, they distract attention away from otherwise unsightly structures, and are created specifically for outdoor use.
Tags: palm trees, artificial palm, used outside, Artificial palms, artificial palms, durable plastic