Real wicker furniture is often made from a material known as rattan, according to Cathryn Peters, also known as the Wicker Woman. Real wicker furniture can also be made from paper fibers, bamboo, reed and oriental seagrass. Real wicker can be subject to weathering and mold.
Plastic wicker is exactly that: plastic. Plastic is highly versatile and, unlike real wicker, is offered in nearly every color of the rainbow. Furthermore, plastic wicker weathers significantly better and does not hold mold.
Plastic wicker is often more appealing than real wicker. It can be left outside without any fear of damage, and holds up better against normal wear and tear. Plastic wicker is also easier to clean, and often is less expensive than real wicker.