What is fake grass called? Whether you’re browsing home improvement sites or talking with turf suppliers, you’ll likely come across terms like artificial grass, synthetic grass, artificial turf, synthetic turf, artificial lawn, fake grass, fake lawn, fake turf, faux grass, turf, turf carpet, turf mat, turf rug, turf roll, grass rug, grass mat, grass carpet, realistic turf, natural look lawn, and even AstroTurf. These names often describe the same or similar thing, but with subtle differences in tone, usage, or marketing appeal — and knowing which is which can save you confusion down the line.
In this guide, we’ll start by unpacking the many names and terms associated with fake grass, showing you which ones are commonly used in the industry and which are more casual or decorative. From there, we’ll explore how artificial turf evolved — from its 1960s sports origins to the realistic, lifestyle-driven products we see today. Then we’ll break down the different types of fake grass available, first by material (like nylon, polyethylene, or polypropylene) and then by usage (from landscaping to sports, pets, and putting greens), helping you understand which type best suits your needs.
Let’s clear up the names, trace the history, and make choosing the right turf a lot easier.
What Is Fake Grass Called?
When people talk about fake grass, they might be referring to a range of terms that are used interchangeably — some technical, some casual, and some derived from brand names. Understanding these different names helps you make sense of product labels, online resources, and conversations with suppliers. In this section, we’ll break down the most common fake grass names and what they really mean.
The most commonly accepted industry terms include:
- Artificial grass
- Synthetic grass
- Artificial turf
- Synthetic turf
- Artificial lawn
These terms are typically used by manufacturers, landscapers, and retailers. While there’s no strict difference between artificial grass and synthetic turf, turf often appears in sports-related contexts, while grass and lawn are more common in residential use.
In casual conversations and marketing materials, you may also see:
- Fake grass
- Fake lawn
- Fake turf
- Faux grass
- Turf
These are less technical but widely understood. They’re often used in retail ads, social media, and everyday language. While fake grass may sound informal, it’s still one of the most searched and recognized phrases among homeowners.
Some terms describe not what the product is made of, but how it looks or where it’s used. This includes words that emphasize structure, like:
- Turf carpet
- Turf mat
- Turf rug
- Turf roll
- Grass rug
- Grass mat
- Grass carpet
You’ll usually find these names in e-commerce listings or product packaging. They often indicate smaller, portable, or decorative versions of artificial turf for patios, balconies, or indoor areas.
In contrast, names like “realistic turf” or “natural look lawn” focus more on appearance. These labels highlight visual appeal rather than technical quality, and are designed to attract buyers who want a surface that closely resembles real grass, even if the underlying material is no different.
Lastly, you might come across the word “AstroTurf” or “Astro Turf” — originally a brand name from the 1960s, now widely used as a generic term for fake grass in American English. Outside the U.S., however, it’s still recognized primarily as a brand name.
As you can see, fake grass goes by many names. Knowing which term you’re dealing with will help you better understand product specs and choose what fits your needs. In the next section, we’ll explore where these names came from and how artificial grass evolved over time.
The History and Evolution of Fake Grass
The history of fake grass goes far beyond its appearance in home gardens or online product listings. Understanding where artificial turf came from — and how it evolved into the wide range of products we see today — gives context to many of the names and terms still in use. In this section, we’ll explore:
- how synthetic grass was first invented for sports applications,
- how AstroTurf became a household name,
- and how fake grass gradually found its way from stadiums to backyards.
From Invention to Innovation: The Early Days of Synthetic Grass
Fake grass was first introduced in the 1960s as a solution for indoor athletic fields. Natural grass couldn’t survive inside domed stadiums, so researchers at Monsanto created a synthetic surface called ChemGrass. It was designed to look like real grass while withstanding heavy use and requiring less maintenance.
In 1966, ChemGrass was installed in the Houston Astrodome — the world’s first indoor baseball stadium. Soon after, it was rebranded as AstroTurf, named after the stadium itself. This marked the commercial debut of fake grass.
These early surfaces were stiff and plastic-like, offering durability but little resemblance to real grass. Over time, synthetic turf evolved through several generations. These are typically referred to as:
- The first generation, made with short, dense nylon fibers and no infill. While extremely durable, it felt harsh underfoot and looked artificial.
- The second generation, introduced in the late 1970s and into the 1980s, featured sand infill to improve stability and performance.
- The third generation, widely used today, combines longer polyethylene blades with sand or rubber infill and layered backing for better drainage, softness, and a more natural appearance.
This technical evolution laid the foundation for the realistic and versatile turf products we know today.
AstroTurf: From Brand to Generic Term
AstroTurf’s success in sports quickly made it the most recognizable name in synthetic grass. Over time, people began using “AstroTurf” as a general term for all types of fake grass, even when the product wasn’t made by the company itself.
In American English, the term AstroTurf is now informally used as a generic term for synthetic turf — much like “Kleenex” for tissues or “Velcro” for hook-and-loop fasteners. However, it’s still a registered trademark, and outside the U.S., it’s more commonly recognized as a specific brand rather than a general product name.
The association between the word and the product helped shape how consumers and media talked about artificial grass for decades.
From Sports Fields to Everyday Landscaping
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, fake grass remained mostly confined to sports stadiums and training grounds. But as material quality improved, manufacturers began marketing turf to new audiences.
By the late 2000s and early 2010s, more realistic textures and color variations had made artificial grass appealing to homeowners, businesses, and even schools. It began appearing not only in lawns, but on rooftops, balconies, patios, playgrounds, and indoor displays. This expansion drove changes not just in how the product was used — but also in how it was named and sold.
As the market grew more consumer-facing, so did the language. Terms like landscape turf, eco lawn, realistic turf, or natural look grass — commonly used in product marketing — started showing up in catalogs and ads. These names reflected not just technical features, but emotional appeal, lifestyle aspirations, and intended use. The shift from utility product to lifestyle solution was mirrored in the vocabulary itself — more relatable, more persuasive, and more targeted.
Types of Artificial Grass Based on Material and Use
When choosing artificial grass, it’s important to understand that not all turf is the same. Different types of fake grass vary in how they look, feel, perform, and last — depending on both the material they’re made from and the purpose they’re designed for.
There are many ways to categorize artificial grass, but two of the most practical and commonly used are:
- by material (what the turf is made from), and
- by intended use (where and how it will be installed).
In this section, we’ll break things down accordingly to help you choose what best fits your needs.
Types of Artificial Grass by Material
Nylon
Nylon is the toughest and most resilient turf fiber. It holds its shape under heavy foot traffic, high temperatures, and intense UV exposure. This makes it ideal for high-traffic areas and sports fields. However, nylon turf is also the most expensive and tends to feel stiffer than other materials — not ideal for barefoot comfort or soft landscaping.
Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene turf offers a softer, more natural feel and realistic appearance. It’s the most popular choice for residential lawns and landscape use. PE grass strikes a good balance between performance and aesthetics. Compared to nylon, it’s more comfortable and budget-friendly, but less durable under extreme wear.
Polypropylene (PP)
Polypropylene is the most affordable turf material, but also the least durable. It’s lightweight and often used in decorative or low-traffic settings, like display areas, small patios, or budget-conscious projects. PP turf tends to flatten more easily and may degrade faster under sunlight. It’s less lifelike in texture and color compared to PE.
Types of Artificial Grass by Use
Landscape Turf
Landscape turf is the most common type used in residential and commercial outdoor spaces. It’s designed to mimic the look and feel of natural grass, with a soft texture, varied blade heights, and realistic color tones. This turf is typically made from polyethylene for a comfortable surface that’s safe for children and suitable for walking barefoot.
You’ll find landscape turf in front and backyards, rooftop gardens, balconies, courtyards, and around swimming pools. Some products include a thatch layer for added volume and natural aesthetics. While not made for high-impact activity, quality landscape turf can handle regular foot traffic with ease.
Sports Turf
Sports turf is engineered for performance, durability, and safety. It’s used in a variety of athletic fields — including soccer, football, field hockey, and tennis. This type of turf often combines nylon or polyethylene fibers with rubber or sand infill to absorb shock, reduce injuries, and maintain consistent traction.
Depending on the sport, the blade length, fiber density, and infill depth are carefully calibrated to meet safety and performance standards. Most sports turf systems also include a shock pad beneath the surface to improve cushioning.
Pet Turf
Pet turf is specially designed for homes with dogs or commercial pet facilities. It prioritizes fast drainage, easy cleanup, and odor control. The surface is usually made from polyethylene, supported by a perforated or flow-through backing that allows water and pet waste to pass through quickly.
Compared to standard landscape turf, pet turf typically has shorter blades and firmer structure, making it easier to clean. Some products include antimicrobial treatments or deodorizing infill to further improve hygiene. It’s a popular choice for dog runs, kennels, pet hotels, and multi-pet households.
Putting Green Turf
Putting green turf is a specialty product created to replicate the smooth, even surface of a golf green. It features short, dense, tightly packed fibers that allow golf balls to roll true and predictably. Polypropylene is commonly used for this turf due to its stiffness, though higher-end options may use nylon for added resilience.
Putting green turf is typically installed with a firm base and minimal infill, allowing for precise ball control. It’s ideal for backyard practice areas, indoor simulators, and even commercial golf training centers.
Conclusion
Fake grass goes by many names — some technical, some casual, and others shaped by history or branding. While these terms are often used interchangeably, knowing their origins and meanings can help clear up confusion, especially when comparing products across different suppliers or platforms.
In the end, what matters most isn’t the label, but the type of turf that fits your needs. Whether you’re installing a backyard lawn, a pet area, or a putting green, understanding the materials and intended uses will guide you toward the right choice.
The world of artificial grass may seem full of similar names, but once you look closer, the differences that matter start to stand out.
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