What is Rattan?

Rattan—a resilient vine palm—has long been a cornerstone of Burmese craftsmanship. Generations of artisans have woven this natural material into furniture and home accents, transforming simple vines into pieces of timeless elegance.

In Myanmar, the Calamus genus reigns supreme with a remarkable local diversity. There are six genera and 31 species of rattan found across the country, notably from the Calamus group which comprises 23 species alone. Commonly used varieties include Calamus platyspathus (kyet-u-kyein), C. latifolius (yamata-kyein), C. longisetus (kabaung-kyein), C. floribundus (ye-kyein), C. myrianthus (kyein-bok), and C. erectus (thaing-kyein).

These species are not only abundant but also exceptional in quality—denser and heavier than those from other regions, resulting in sturdier furniture that endures.

Classic Home proudly collaborates with skilled weavers who leverage this strength, marrying heritage techniques with contemporary design to offer pieces that are both beautiful and built to last.

Key Highlights

• Myanmar is home to 31 reported rattan species across six genera, with Calamus being the most prevalent.

• Widely utilized species include C. platyspathus, C. latifolius, C. longisetus, C. floribundus, C. myrianthus, and C. erectus.

• Locally sourced rattan is notably dense and heavy, offering exceptional durability—traits that are intrinsic to Myanmar’s rattan craftsmanship.

Rattan is Not Bamboo

Rattan and bamboo are often mistaken for one another, but they are very different materials. While bamboo is hollow and rigid, rattan is a solid vine that is far more durable, flexible, and versatile. This flexibility allows rattan to be bent and shaped into beautiful forms—an essential quality that makes it ideal for weaving furniture and home décor.

Bamboo, although strong, cannot be bent in the same way and is generally less durable for furniture-making. Rattan, on the other hand, has been treasured in Myanmar for centuries, passed down through generations of weavers who transform it into pieces built to last.

Rattan VS. Bamboo: What's the difference?

Feature	Rattan	Bamboo
Structure	Solid vine (not hollow)	Hollow grass stem
Flexibility	Can be bent and shaped	Rigid, cannot be bent easily
Durability	Strong, long-lasting, ideal for weaving furniture	Less durable for furniture use
Weight	Dense and heavy	Lightweight
Texture	Smooth, can be polished	Natural ridges and nodes
Best Use	Indoor furniture, weaving, décor	Construction, poles, decorative items
Origin in Myanmar	31 species across 6 genera, widely used by artisans	Commonly found, but less used for furniture weaving

Rattan Care – Minimal Upkeep, Maximum Charm

Classic Home’s rattan furniture is crafted for indoor living and requires surprisingly little care. To keep your pieces in pristine condition:

1. Dust regularly with a soft, damp cloth—this alone preserves the vine’s natural beauty.

2. For a deeper clean (once a year), mix lukewarm water with mild white soap flakes, gently wipe the pieces, then dry with a clean cloth.

This easy regimen ensures your furniture remains vibrant and durable for years to come, growing only more beautiful with age.