I have never bought a synthetic planter before and was hesitant. [...] I was pleasantly surprised with the aesthetics and very impressed with the large water reservoir that negates the need for daily watering even after just planting. The only time that the material does not appear wood is when right-up close and only if you are very attentive to detail. Would have bought this kind of product (non-wood), earlier if I had known. Would recommend using a liner as recommended with this product to avoid soil runoff through the overflow hole on the side of the planter.