Preserved Moss Walls vs. Faux Green Walls: What’s the Difference?

When considering a green wall for your space, one of the most common questions we get is: What’s the difference between preserved moss and faux plant walls?

At Green Wallscapes, we specialize in both, but they serve different purposes.

Preserved moss walls are made from real plants that were once alive. During the preservation process, the natural water inside the plant is replaced with glycerin. This keeps the moss soft and flexible, almost as if it’s still living, but it’s actually in a state of suspended animation.

Moss is ideal for this process because it absorbs the preserving material beautifully and does not continue growing. After preservation, the moss is dyed, allowing for custom colors. And, since it comes in individual pieces, we can create completely custom patterns and layouts, allowing for endless creative design possibilities.

When installed in the right interior environment, preserved moss walls last for years and maintain their natural beauty. We’ve completed over 1,000 installations, and they continue to impress clients every day!

Faux walls, on the other hand, are made from panelized plastic plants. While they don’t offer the same natural look and texture as preserved moss, they're a great solution for exterior spaces where live or preserved plants wouldn’t thrive due to lighting, wind, or environmental challenges.

If budget allows and the project is indoors, preserved moss offers a more natural, elevated aesthetic. However, for exterior or high-exposure applications, faux may be the more practical choice.

The key is choosing the right solution for the right space!