What Are Preserved Trees and Why Are They Popular in Interior Design?

Preserved palm tree in a modern hotel lobby interior by Steelgrass

What exactly are preserved trees? It is a common question from designers, hoteliers and business owners who want to bring greenery into their spaces without the maintenance that living plants demand.

Preserved trees are not artificial, nor are they alive. They are created by combining real wood trunks with preserved foliage to form lifelike trees that last for years indoors. Each one is built by hand, using carefully selected materials to achieve a natural, long-lasting result.

At Steelgrass, we specialise in preserved palms, eucalyptus trees, bonsai and flower arrangements tailored to commercial interiors. Our clients choose preserved greenery because it delivers consistent visual impact without the mess or upkeep of live planting.

Where Do Preserved Trees Come From?

Preserved trees are assembled using natural wood trunks or branches, paired with foliage that has been preserved through a plant-safe stabilisation process. The foliage, usually leaves or fronds is harvested at its peak, treated to maintain colour and shape, and then artfully attached to the wooden structure.

Unlike preserved flowers, which are treated as a whole, preserved trees are constructed from individual elements. This method allows for great flexibility in design, from tall indoor palms to compact bonsai forms or topiary trees.

Because all parts of the tree were once living, preserved trees offer a tactile and visually convincing alternative to artificial plants. And unlike living trees, they require no water, soil or light.

Benefits of Preserved Trees

Preserved trees are usually chosen for commercial and hospitality spaces due to their balance of form, function and practicality.

Low Maintenance. Preserved trees require no watering, feeding or re-potting. They do not attract pests or drop leaves, and they stay looking fresh with minimal care.

Long Lifespan. With the right indoor conditions, preserved trees can last five years or more. They hold their shape and colour far longer than fresh plants, making them ideal for spaces that need consistency year-round.

Sustainable Choice. By reducing the need for replacements, preserved trees help lower waste and transportation emissions. They are also free from the plastic typically found in artificial greenery.

Natural Appearance. Because they are made from real wood and preserved foliage, preserved trees offer a more believable appearance than synthetic alternatives. Each one is crafted to retain the irregularities and natural textures.

Supports Wellbeing. Research shows that greenery in indoor environments helps reduce stress and improve mood. Preserved trees contribute to this effect, especially in spaces where live plants would be impractical.

Where Are Preserved Trees Used?

Preserved trees are suitable for a wide range of indoor environments:

• Hotels and restaurants use them in lobbies, dining areas and corridors to create atmosphere and visual interest.

• Offices and meeting rooms benefit from greenery that requires no attention from facilities teams.

• Retail spaces and showrooms use preserved palms or topiary to create a lasting impression on visitors.

• Residential clients may choose a preserved tree as a centrepiece or accent feature in areas without natural light.

At Steelgrass, we’ve installed preserved palms in hotel reception areas, cloud-shaped topiary trees in lounges, and eucalyptus trees in conference spaces. Each installation was designed to suit the room, not dominate it.

How Long Do Preserved Trees Last?

Preserved trees typically last between five and ten years when kept indoors and away from direct sunlight or moisture. Their lifespan depends on environmental conditions, but in a temperature-controlled interior they are an excellent long-term investment.

A light dusting every few months is usually all that is needed to keep them looking their best.

Preserved Trees vs Artificial Trees

While preserved and artificial trees both offer a low-maintenance alternative to live plants, the materials and overall effect are quite different.

Preserved trees are made from natural wood and real foliage that has been treated to last. Artificial trees are usually made of plastic or synthetic fabrics. The difference in texture, colour depth and shape is noticeable—particularly in spaces that value design and atmosphere.

For projects that prioritise sustainability and a natural aesthetic, preserved trees offer a more refined, credible option.

Supporting Wellbeing through Biophilia

Preserved trees offer an innovative way to bring nature into interior spaces without the mess, maintenance or short lifespan of fresh plants. Made from real wood and preserved foliage, they combine natural texture with practical durability.

If you are designing a hotel lobby, an office reception or a restaurant interior, our preserved trees will provide a sustainable, long-lasting and visually authentic solution.

At Steelgrass, we work closely with clients to select or design preserved palms and trees that fit their space and vision. To see examples of our work, visit our Project Gallery or get in touch to explore options for your space.