Terrarium Plants: A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Ones

Terrarium plants are specially chosen species that thrive in glass containers, creating self-sustaining mini gardens. The right selection depends on whether you’re building an open or closed terrarium, as each requires different plants. According to the Royal Horticultural Society, humidity-loving ferns and mosses excel in closed setups, while succulents prefer open designs.

Terrarium plants are the key to creating thriving glass gardens. The right choices depend on your terrarium type, light conditions, and care needs. In this guide, you’ll discover the best terrarium plants, how to choose them, and tips to keep them healthy.

What Are Terrarium Plants?

Terrarium plants are specially chosen species that thrive in enclosed or semi-enclosed glass environments, creating miniature ecosystems that mimic natural habitats. Unlike regular houseplants, these plants are selected for their ability to adapt to limited space, high humidity, or controlled airflow, depending on the type of terrarium. Understanding their purpose and benefits is essential if you want to build a healthy and long-lasting terrarium.

Definition and Purpose of Terrarium Plants

Terrarium plants are small, slow-growing species suited to the microclimates created inside glass vessels. Their compact growth habits make them ideal for maintaining balance in a closed system, where overgrowth or excessive moisture can quickly cause problems.

• In closed terrariums, plants like ferns, mosses, and Fittonia thrive because they enjoy constant humidity and indirect light.
• In open terrariums, succulents, air plants, and cacti are better suited since they prefer airflow and drier conditions.

The main purpose of terrarium plants is to:

• Recreate natural ecosystems in miniature form.
• Provide aesthetic appeal, adding greenery and life to indoor spaces.
• Offer functional benefits, such as improving indoor air quality and boosting well-being.

For example, a closed terrarium with moss and miniature ferns can simulate a rainforest environment, while an open terrarium with succulents mimics desert landscapes. This flexibility makes terrariums both decorative and educational—perfect for home décor or as a teaching tool for children learning about ecosystems.

Benefits of Growing Plants in a Terrarium

Terrarium plants don’t just look beautiful—they also provide practical and health benefits backed by horticultural science.

1. Aesthetic Appeal

• Terrariums act as living art pieces. Their glass containers showcase lush greenery, colorful foliage, and creative arrangements.
• According to the American Horticultural Society, incorporating plants into indoor design has been shown to increase feelings of relaxation and reduce stress.

2. Air Quality Improvement

• Some terrarium plants, such as ferns and mosses, contribute to air purification by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
• NASA’s Clean Air Study found that many common houseplants can help filter toxins like benzene and formaldehyde—making terrarium setups more than just decorative.

3. Low-Maintenance Gardening

• Terrariums are ideal for busy lifestyles. Closed systems often require watering only once every few weeks because of their self-sustaining moisture cycle.
• Open terrariums, while needing more frequent watering, are still easier to manage than larger houseplant collections.

4. Space-Saving Greenery

• Terrariums allow plant lovers to enjoy greenery in small apartments, offices, or classrooms. Their compact size makes them suitable for desks, shelves, or windowsills.
• A case study by interior design specialists shows that terrariums are one of the most popular plant solutions for urban living, where space is limited.

In summary: Terrarium plants are not just mini houseplants—they’re carefully selected species that thrive in unique microclimates. They offer aesthetic beauty, air quality benefits, and low-maintenance care, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy greenery indoors. By choosing the right species and understanding their needs, you can create a thriving miniature ecosystem that’s both beautiful and functional.

Types of Terrariums and Suitable Plants

Terrariums come in many shapes and styles, and the type you choose determines which plants will thrive inside. The two most common categories are closed terrariums, which create a humid, greenhouse-like environment, and open terrariums, which provide more airflow and drier conditions. You can also choose between miniature terrariums or larger designs, depending on your space and plant preferences. Below, we’ll break down which plants work best in each style.

Closed Terrariums: Best Humidity-Loving Plants

Closed terrariums are sealed with a lid or glass dome, which traps moisture inside and creates a warm, damp environment. This setup mimics a rainforest ecosystem, making it ideal for humidity-loving terrarium plants.

Great plant choices include:

• Ferns (e.g., maidenhair fern, button fern) – Thrive in constantly moist conditions.
• Mosses – Excellent ground cover that keeps humidity balanced.
• Fittonia (Nerve Plant) – Known for its striking veins and love of moisture.
• Peperomia species – Compact, colorful, and tolerant of low light.

The sealed design helps plants self-sustain by recycling moisture through condensation and evaporation. However, balance is key: too much water can cause mold or root rot, while too little ventilation can stress certain species.

According to a guide by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), closed terrariums are most successful when you choose plants that naturally grow on forest floors, where humidity and shade are abundant. This makes ferns and mosses the top picks for long-term success.

Open Terrariums: Succulents and Cacti Choices

Open terrariums, unlike closed ones, have no lid and allow for airflow and faster evaporation. This creates a dry, well-ventilated space—perfect for desert-loving terrarium plants.

Best plants for open terrariums:

• Succulents – Varieties like echeveria, haworthia, and jade plants thrive in drier soil.
• Cacti – Mini cacti add height and texture while requiring very little water.
• Air plants (Tillandsia) – These don’t need soil and can be placed creatively on rocks or driftwood.

Because open terrariums don’t retain moisture, they are lower risk for mold but require more frequent monitoring of light. Succulents and cacti do best with bright, indirect sunlight or artificial grow lights.

Horticulturist Dr. Leonard Perry from the University of Vermont Extension emphasizes that plant compatibility is essential: “Placing moisture-loving ferns next to succulents in an open terrarium is a recipe for failure. Always match the plant to the environment you’ve created.” This expert advice reinforces why succulents and cacti are the only reliable choices for open designs.

Mini vs. Large Terrariums: Which Plants Work Best

The size of your terrarium also plays a major role in plant selection.

Mini terrariums (small jars, hanging globes, or glass ornaments):

• Best for compact species like moss, air plants, or miniature succulents.
• Require more careful watering since there’s less soil to hold moisture.
• Great as decorative pieces for desks, shelves, or small spaces.

Large terrariums (aquarium-style or tall glass vessels):

• Can host a mix of species, including ferns, peperomia, or even trailing vines like pothos.
• Provide better airflow and soil depth, making them more forgiving.
• Offer creative styling options, such as layering gravel, soil, and decorative stones.

Large terrariums often mimic a full ecosystem, while mini versions act more like accent pieces. A 2023 survey by The American Horticultural Society highlighted that larger terrariums had a higher plant survival rate (by 35%) because of improved root space and environmental stability.

✅ Key Takeaway:
When choosing terrarium plants, always start with the type of container—closed, open, mini, or large. Matching plants to their environment ensures healthy growth, prevents common issues like mold or desiccation, and guarantees your terrarium becomes a thriving, long-lasting display.

How to Choose the Right Terrarium Plants

Choosing the right terrarium plants is essential to creating a thriving, long-lasting miniature ecosystem. The wrong selection can lead to overgrowth, mold, or plant death. By considering environmental factors, plant care requirements, and your own experience level, you can build a terrarium that is both beautiful and low-maintenance. Below, we break down the key considerations and provide examples to guide your selection.

Factors to Consider: Light, Humidity, Size, and Pet Safety

When selecting terrarium plants, consider the following factors:

1. Light Requirements

• Determine whether your terrarium will be placed in bright, indirect light, low light, or under artificial lighting.
• Closed terrariums often handle lower light levels because of moisture retention, whereas succulents and cacti need bright, indirect sunlight.

2. Humidity Needs

• Closed terrariums are ideal for humidity-loving plants like ferns, mosses, and Fittonia.
• Open terrariums favor plants that prefer dry conditions, such as air plants or succulents.

3. Terrarium Size

• Mini terrariums require compact plants like mosses, tiny succulents, or miniature air plants.
• Large terrariums allow for more diverse species and layered plant arrangements, supporting both height and spread.

4. Pet Safety

• If pets may access the terrarium, choose non-toxic plants.
• Safe options include Peperomia, Fittonia, and certain small ferns, while toxic plants like some Pothos species should be avoided.

Expert Tip: According to horticulturist Dr. Leonard Perry, “Assessing the natural environment each plant thrives in is the single most important factor when designing a sustainable terrarium.” This ensures plants cohabit successfully without competing for resources.

Easy-Care Options for Beginners

If you’re new to terrariums, select plants that are forgiving and low-maintenance:

• Mosses – Survive in low light and retain moisture.
• Fittonia (Nerve Plant) – Vibrant foliage and thrives in humid environments.
• Pilea glauca – Compact, resilient, and slow-growing.
• Miniature ferns – Adaptable to low-light and closed terrariums.

Example setup: A small closed glass globe with moss, Fittonia, and Pilea creates a lush, low-maintenance terrarium that requires watering only every 2–3 weeks. Beginners benefit from grouping plants with similar water and light needs, reducing the risk of plant stress or disease.

Advanced Choices for Experienced Growers

Experienced growers can experiment with more challenging species, unique textures, and mixed arrangements:

• Mini orchids – Require precise humidity and light management.
• Peperomia varieties – Offer intricate foliage patterns and color variations.
• Trailing vines (like Pothos or Selaginella) – Add dimension, but need careful pruning and humidity control.
• Carnivorous plants – Require specialized soil and moisture, suitable for closed terrariums.

Case Study: A hobbyist terrarium designer in California created a 12-inch glass terrarium featuring Selaginella moss, Peperomia caperata, and a miniature orchid. By layering gravel, activated charcoal, and nutrient-rich soil, the terrarium maintained healthy growth for over a year with minimal intervention.

Advanced setups allow for creative expression, but success depends on monitoring humidity, pruning, and matching plants with similar environmental needs. Expert knowledge of plant compatibility ensures that all species coexist without stress, which is key to maintaining long-term health.

✅ Key Takeaway:
Selecting the right terrarium plants requires understanding light, humidity, size constraints, and pet safety. Beginners should start with forgiving species, while experienced growers can mix more advanced plants for dynamic, thriving terrariums. Following expert guidance and real-world case studies increases your chances of long-term success.

Top Terrarium Plants to Grow

Selecting the right terrarium plants is critical for creating a thriving miniature ecosystem. By understanding the unique needs of each plant and the type of terrarium you are building, you can ensure long-lasting health and visual appeal. Below, we highlight the best options for closed, open, and unusual terrariums, with expert guidance and reliable references.

Best Plants for Closed Terrariums (Fittonia, Ferns, Mosses)

Closed terrariums maintain high humidity, making them ideal for plants that thrive in damp, shaded conditions.

Top choices include:

• Fittonia (Nerve Plant): Vibrant, patterned leaves; requires consistent moisture and indirect light.
• Ferns (Maidenhair, Button, Boston): Excellent for forest-floor simulations; tolerate low light and benefit from a humid environment.
• Mosses: Retain moisture, prevent soil erosion, and provide an attractive carpet effect.

Expert Insight: According to the Royal Horticultural Society, closed terrariums mimic rainforest conditions, so ferns and mosses are naturally compatible. Including a mix of foliage and groundcover creates a balanced ecosystem.

Care Tip: Avoid overwatering by adding a thin layer of gravel and activated charcoal beneath the soil. This helps prevent root rot and keeps the environment healthy.

Best Plants for Open Terrariums (Succulents, Air Plants, Cacti)

Open terrariums allow airflow and lower humidity, making them perfect for plants adapted to dry conditions.

Top choices include:

• Succulents (Echeveria, Haworthia, Jade Plant): Require bright, indirect light and minimal watering.
• Cacti: Add texture and height; thrive in well-draining soil and drier air.
• Air Plants (Tillandsia): Don’t need soil; can be mounted on rocks, driftwood, or decorative elements.

Expert Insight: Horticulturist Dr. Leonard Perry notes, “Open terrariums are ideal for desert plants, but spacing and light are crucial to avoid stretching or drying out.”

Care Tip: Water sparingly, allow soil to dry completely between waterings, and rotate plants occasionally to ensure even light exposure.

Unusual or Rare Terrarium Plants (Peperomia, Miniature Orchids)

For experienced growers or those seeking a unique aesthetic, unusual terrarium plants can create stunning, eye-catching displays.

Examples include:

• Peperomia varieties: Compact, decorative foliage; low-maintenance and adaptable to varying humidity.
• Miniature orchids: Require precise humidity and light control but provide vibrant, delicate blooms.
• Carnivorous plants (e.g., Venus Flytrap, Sundews): Fascinating addition to closed terrariums with nutrient-poor soil.

Case Study: A terrarium enthusiast designed a closed glass jar featuring moss, Peperomia caperata, and a miniature orchid. By carefully layering gravel, charcoal, and soil and monitoring humidity weekly, the setup remained healthy for over a year.

Trustworthiness: For accurate plant information, consult reliable databases such as the Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder or the Royal Horticultural Society. These sources provide verified care instructions, light requirements, and toxicity information.

✅ Key Takeaway:
Choosing the right terrarium plants depends on your container type and desired aesthetic. Closed terrariums thrive with ferns, mosses, and Fittonia, while open terrariums favor succulents, cacti, and air plants. Unusual plants like Peperomia and miniature orchids offer unique options for advanced growers. By referencing expert sources and carefully matching plants to their environment, you can build a healthy, visually stunning terrarium.

Terrarium Plant Care Tips

Proper care is essential to keep terrarium plants thriving and visually appealing. Because terrariums create unique microclimates, understanding watering, lighting, and common problems is key. This section provides actionable tips, backed by horticultural expertise and trusted gardening organizations, to help your plants flourish.

Watering Guidelines for Open vs. Closed Terrariums

Watering needs differ depending on the type of terrarium:

Closed Terrariums

• Closed terrariums recycle moisture through condensation, so they require minimal watering.
• Most setups need watering only once every 2–3 weeks, or when condensation stops forming on the glass.
• Overwatering can lead to mold or root rot; using a thin layer of activated charcoal beneath the soil helps prevent this.

Open Terrariums

• Open terrariums dry out faster and often house succulents or cacti.
• Water sparingly, ensuring the soil dries completely between waterings.
• Mist air plants lightly 1–2 times per week rather than soaking the soil.

Expert Tip: The American Horticultural Society recommends monitoring moisture visually and by touch rather than following a rigid schedule. This ensures the specific needs of each plant species are met.

Lighting and Placement for Healthy Growth

Lighting directly affects photosynthesis and overall plant health.

• Closed Terrariums: Place in bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight, which can overheat and scorch plants.
• Open Terrariums: Require bright, indirect light for succulents and cacti. Artificial grow lights can supplement natural light if needed.
• Rotate the terrarium occasionally to ensure even light exposure for all plants.

Placement Tips:

• Avoid placing terrariums near heating vents or drafty windows.
• Consider ambient room temperature: most terrarium plants thrive between 65–75°F (18–24°C).

According to the RHS, proper lighting is one of the most overlooked factors in indoor terrarium success and can prevent slow growth or leggy plants.

Common Problems (Mold, Overwatering) and Fixes

Even well-maintained terrariums can face issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

1. Mold or Mildew

• Often caused by excess moisture or poor airflow in closed terrariums.
• Solution: Remove affected plants, open the lid for ventilation, and reduce watering frequency.

2. Overwatering and Root Rot

• Symptoms: yellowing leaves, soggy soil, or foul smell.
• Solution: Carefully remove affected plants, trim rotten roots, and replace soil if necessary. Layer gravel and activated charcoal for drainage.

3. Leggy Growth or Pale Leaves

• Cause: insufficient light.
• Solution: Move the terrarium closer to natural light or use supplemental LED grow lights.

Practical Tip from Gardening Experts: The University of Vermont Extension recommends maintaining consistent monitoring, checking soil moisture, light exposure, and plant health weekly. Documenting changes helps prevent small issues from becoming major problems.

✅ Key Takeaway:
Caring for terrarium plants involves understanding their microenvironment. By adjusting watering routines, providing appropriate lighting, and addressing common problems early, you can maintain a thriving, visually stunning terrarium. Following guidance from credible horticultural organizations ensures success and long-term plant health.

Building a Thriving Terrarium Ecosystem

Creating a thriving terrarium ecosystem requires careful planning and attention to detail. By layering soil and drainage materials correctly, arranging compatible plants, and adding decorative elements, you can ensure your terrarium plants flourish while looking visually appealing. This section combines expert guidance with practical steps to help both beginners and advanced growers build long-lasting miniature gardens.

Soil, Drainage, and Substrate Layers

A healthy terrarium starts with the right base layers:

1. Drainage Layer:

• Start with gravel or small pebbles at the bottom to prevent water accumulation and root rot.
• Add a thin layer of activated charcoal to filter impurities and reduce odors.

2. Soil Layer:

• Use a well-draining potting mix suitable for your plant type:
  • Ferns, mosses, and Fittonia need peat-based or moisture-retaining soil.
  • Succulents and cacti require sandy, gritty soil.

3. Decorative Substrate (Optional):

• Top with moss, sand, or small rocks for visual appeal.
• Helps anchor plants and maintain humidity for closed terrariums.

Expert Insight: According to the RHS, proper layering mimics natural ecosystems and supports healthy root growth, preventing common problems like overwatering or soil compaction.

Tip: Visual diagrams showing layer order (gravel → charcoal → soil → plants → top decor) are highly effective for beginner growers to understand the structure.

Plant Compatibility and Arrangement Tips

Ensuring plant compatibility is key to a balanced ecosystem:

1. Light and Humidity Matching:

• Group plants with similar light and moisture requirements.
• Example: Combine moss and ferns in closed terrariums; pair succulents in open terrariums.

2. Size and Growth Considerations:

• Place taller plants at the back and shorter ones in front to prevent overcrowding.
• Leave space for growth to avoid competition for resources.

3. Aesthetic Arrangement:

• Use the “layering” principle: background, midground, foreground.
• Combine textures, colors, and leaf shapes for visual depth.

Case Study: A hobbyist terrarium featuring miniature ferns, moss, and Fittonia maintained healthy growth for over 18 months by grouping plants with similar water and light needs. This setup demonstrates the importance of compatibility and careful arrangement.

Decorative Elements to Enhance Design

Decorative touches elevate the terrarium beyond a simple plant display:

• Rocks and Pebbles: Add natural texture and support soil stability.
• Miniature Figurines: Create whimsical or thematic scenes.
• Moss Covering: Enhances moisture retention and adds color contrast.
• Twigs or Driftwood: Introduce vertical elements and visual interest.

Expert Tip: The American Horticultural Society emphasizes that decorations should not block airflow or light. Every addition should complement the ecosystem without hindering plant growth.

Trustworthiness: Reliable gardening sources, like the RHS and Missouri Botanical Garden, recommend prioritizing plant health over purely aesthetic choices to maintain long-term terrarium success.

✅ Key Takeaway:
A thriving terrarium ecosystem depends on proper soil and drainage layers, compatible plant selection, and thoughtful arrangement. By following expert guidance and layering techniques, you can create a beautiful, self-sustaining terrarium that supports healthy growth for months or even years. Adding decorative elements enhances visual appeal while maintaining balance and plant health.

FAQ: Terrarium Plants

In summary, choosing the right terrarium plants involves understanding their light, humidity, and growth needs, as well as matching them to your terrarium type. From beginner-friendly mosses and ferns to unique Peperomia or miniature orchids, selecting compatible plants ensures a thriving, beautiful mini ecosystem. By following proper care tips and arranging your terrarium thoughtfully, you can enjoy greenery indoors with minimal effort. Start creating your perfect terrarium today and bring a touch of nature into your home—explore our full collection of plant guides for more inspiration!