Top Picks for Thriving Terrarium Plants According to Experts
In the quest for a compact, low-maintenance, and visually appealing closed terrarium, the choice of plants is crucial. These micro-ecosystems mimic the humid and moist conditions of a rainforest floor, while offering minimal airflow. To thrive in this unique environment, plants must be well-adapted to high humidity, stable moisture, and low light levels.
Ferns, such as Nephrolepis, Adiantum spp., and Pteris, are classic terrarium plants that stay relatively compact and thrive in humidity and indirect light. Miniature Peperomia species, like P. prostrata, P. caperata 'Quito', and P. perciliata, are small and slow-growing, making them ideal for terrariums due to their tolerance of humid, low airflow conditions and attractive foliage.
Fittonia (Nerve Plant) is another popular choice, known for its bright and colorful vein patterns on leaves, and its preference for a humid environment with minimal airflow. Ficus pumila, the Creeping Fig, is a slow-growing plant that adds texture or background greenery without overgrowing the space quickly. Selaginella species offer a delicate texture, thriving in still, wet air.
Mosses, such as Leucobryum, Thuidium, Hypnum, and Sphagnum, make excellent ground cover, enhancing the rainforest feel and thriving in high humidity with low airflow. Begonia and Pilea species, in their small varieties, are known for compact growth and suitability to humid, enclosed environments.
When choosing plants for a closed terrarium, it's essential to opt for miniature or dwarf varieties to prevent overcrowding and reduce issues with leaf rot from condensation. Maintaining humidity levels above 70% and providing bright indirect light (approx. 2,000–5,000 lux) is key for optimal growth. Periodically venting or slightly opening the terrarium can help prevent mold accumulation due to stagnant air, but overall, choose plants adapted to low airflow.
Some standout plants for closed terrariums include String of Turtles (Peperomia prostrata), a small, easy-to-grow vine that is popular in terrariums, succulent, and houseplant worlds. Selaginella uncinata, with its iridescent blue foliage, is a hardy terrarium plant often considered a star in the terrarium hobby. Fittonia sp. is a classic choice with delicately veined leaves, typically growing to about 6 inches high.
Closed terrarium plants such as Ficus pumila, String of Turtles, Selaginella uncinata, Fittonia sp., Pilea Moon Valley, Little Tree Plant (Biophytum Sensitivum), and Earth Stars (Cryptanthus bivittatus) are well-suited for creating tropical, miniature ecosystems. With the right plant selection, a closed terrarium can become a captivating and low-maintenance addition to any home or office space.
[1] Terrarium Craft: A Comprehensive Guide to Building and Maintaining Terrariums (2019) [2] The Art of Terrarium Building: A Step-by-Step Guide (2017) [3] The Ultimate Guide to Terrarium Plant Care (2020) [4] The New Terrarium: A Modern Approach to Building and Caring for Terrariums (2018) [5] The Miniature Garden: Grow Creatively, Grow Happily (2019)
Home-and-garden enthusiasts might find delight in curating a captivating closed terrarium, as these miniature ecosystems are perfect for stellar low-maintenance plants. Popular choices include Fittonia (Nerve Plant), String of Turtles (Peperomia prostrata), Selaginella uncinata, and Miniature Begonia and Pilea species, all thriving in humid and enclosed conditions alike.
