Discover the 15 best terrarium plants that thrive in humid, low-light conditions. Learn care tips, where to buy, and how to avoid common terrarium mistakes.
Terrariums plants are like little worlds trapped in glass—tiny ecosystems that bring a slice of nature into your home. I’ve been gardening for over a decade, and I can tell you that few things are as satisfying as watching a terrarium thrive. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve got a green thumb like me, the key to a successful terrarium lies in choosing the right plants.
In this article, I’m sharing my top picks for the 15 best terrarium plants that’ll flourish in both open and closed setups. I’ll also answer common questions like “What is a terrarium plant?” and “What plants are best for a terrarium?” Along the way, I’ll sprinkle in tips on terrarium plants care, where to find terrarium plants for sale, and even some terrarium plants ideas to spark your creativity—all tailored for my fellow plant lovers across the USA.
What is a Terrarium Plant?
Let’s start with the basics. A terrarium plant is any plant that can handle the unique conditions inside a terrarium—usually a glass container that’s either sealed (closed) or partially open. These plants typically love high humidity, indirect light, and don’t mind being in tight quarters. They’re slow growers, which is perfect because no one wants a plant bursting out of their terrarium in a month!
When I built my first terrarium, I didn’t quite get this. I tossed in a succulent thinking it’d be fine—spoiler alert: it rotted in the damp, closed environment. Lesson learned! Stick with plants that naturally thrive in moisture, and you’ll be golden.
15 Best Terrarium Plants
Here’s my hand-picked list of the 15 best terrarium plants, based on my years of trial and error. Each one is a star in its own right, perfect for creating a lush, low-maintenance mini garden.
1. Mosses (Sphagnum, Sheet Moss)
Mosses are the unsung heroes of terrariums. They love moisture and low light, turning your terrarium floor into a soft, green carpet.
- Care Tips: Keep the soil damp but not waterlogged. Indirect light is their happy place.
- Why I Love It: Mosses are super easy and set the stage for a forest-like vibe.
2. Ferns (Maidenhair, Button Fern)
Ferns add a touch of elegance with their feathery fronds. They’re made for closed terrarium plants thanks to their love for humidity.
- Care Tips: Water to keep the soil moist and mist now and then.
- Why I Love It: They bring height and a tropical feel—perfect for drama!
3. Fittonia (Nerve Plant)
Fittonia’s veined, colorful leaves make it a standout. It thrives in humid, low-light spots.
- Care Tips: Keep the soil moist and shield it from direct sun.
- Why I Love It: Those vibrant leaves pop against all the green.
4. Peperomia
Peperomia’s compact size and quirky leaves make it a gem for open terrariums. It likes things a bit drier than most on this list.
- Care Tips: Water sparingly—let the soil dry out between drinks.
- Why I Love It: Its variety adds texture without much fuss.
5. Pilea (Pilea Glauca)
Pilea’s tiny, cascading leaves are perfect for a layered look. It’s a humidity fan, so it fits right in.
- Care Tips: Keep soil lightly moist and give it bright, indirect light.
- Why I Love It: It trails beautifully, softening the edges.
6. Baby’s Tears (Soleirolia Soleirolii)
This plant blankets your terrarium with a sea of tiny leaves. It’s a moisture-lover through and through.
- Care Tips: Keep it consistently moist with indirect light.
- Why I Love It: It fills in gaps like a living rug.
7. Creeping Fig (Ficus Pumila)
Creeping Fig climbs and sprawls, adding a wild touch. It’s a humidity champ.
- Care Tips: Moist soil and occasional pruning keep it in check.
- Why I Love It: It’s like a mini jungle vine!
8. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes Phyllostachya)
With speckled leaves, this plant brings playful energy. It’s happiest in humid spots.
- Care Tips: Moist soil and a trim now and then keep it bushy.
- Why I Love It: The color splash is irresistible.
9. Miniature Orchids
Certain mini orchids (like Ludisia discolor) thrive in terrariums, adding an exotic flair.
- Care Tips: Bright, indirect light and slightly moist soil.
- Why I Love It: They’re like little jewels in glass.
10. African Violet (Saintpaulia)
African Violets bloom beautifully in open terrariums. They like moderate humidity and soft light.
- Care Tips: Water from the bottom and avoid wet leaves.
- Why I Love It: Those flowers are a sweet surprise.
11. Chinese Money Plant (Pilea Peperomioides)
This trendy plant’s round leaves add modern charm. It loves humidity and fits small spaces.
- Care Tips: Light moisture and bright, indirect light.
- Why I Love It: It’s cute and stylish.
12. Aluminum Plant (Pilea Cadierei)
With silvery leaves, this Pilea shines in humid terrariums.
- Care Tips: Moist soil and indirect light keep it happy.
- Why I Love It: The metallic sheen is a showstopper.
13. Artillery Plant (Pilea Microphylla)
Tiny, fern-like leaves give this plant a delicate charm. It’s a humidity lover.
- Care Tips: Consistent moisture and regular misting.
- Why I Love It: It’s soft and subtle.
14. Selaginella (Spikemoss)
Selaginella looks prehistoric with its ferny foliage. It’s perfect for moist, shady terrariums.
- Care Tips: Moist soil and low light.
- Why I Love It: It’s like a little dinosaur-era touch.
15. Cryptanthus (Earth Star)
This bromeliad’s star-shaped, colorful leaves make it bold. It’s great for open terrariums.
- Care Tips: Bright, indirect light and slight moisture.
- Why I Love It: It’s a striking centerpiece.
Terrarium Plants Care: How to Keep Them Thriving
Now that you’ve got your plants, let’s talk terrarium plants care. Here’s what I’ve learned over the years:
- Watering: Most of these plants like moist soil, but don’t drown them. Closed terrariums might only need water every few weeks; open ones may need more.
- Light: Stick to indirect light—direct sun can turn your terrarium into a plant oven!
- Humidity: Closed setups handle this naturally, but for open terrariums, a quick mist keeps things humid.
- Pruning: Trim overgrown bits to keep everything tidy.
- Pests: Watch for mold or bugs in the damp environment—act fast if you spot trouble.
Want more detailed advice? Check out my guide on How to Care for Terrarium Plants over at USA Garden Hub.
Terrarium Plants for Beginners
If you’re new to this, don’t sweat it! Here are my top terrarium plants for beginners:
- Mosses
- Fittonia
- Peperomia
- Pilea
These are forgiving and perfect for getting your feet wet (pun intended). My first terrarium taught me a lot—like how succulents don’t belong in closed setups. Stick with these, and you’ll be off to a great start.
Terrarium Plants Ideas: Get Creative!
Designing a terrarium is half the fun. Here are some terrarium plants ideas to try:
- Woodland Scene: Pair mosses and ferns with tiny figurines—like a fairy hiding under a leaf.
- Tropical Escape: Mix Fittonia, Creeping Fig, and mini orchids for a lush, vibrant look.
- Minimalist Magic: Use Pilea and pebbles for a clean, modern feel in an open terrarium.
Play with textures and heights—it’s like painting with plants! For more inspiration, peek at Gardening Know How.
Where to Buy Terrarium Plants
Ready to shop? Here’s where you can find terrarium plants for sale:
- Local Spots: Search “terrarium plants near me” for nurseries or garden centers in your area.
- Online: Terrarium Plants Amazon has tons of options—check their Terrarium Plants Section.
- Bulk Buys: For terrarium plants wholesale, try Glasshouse Works.
- Unique Finds: Etsy sellers offer hand-picked plants with personality.
I’ve snagged some gems from local shops and online—nothing beats the thrill of unboxing a new plant!
What Are the Disadvantages of a Terrarium?
Terrariums aren’t perfect (what is?). Here are some disadvantages of a terrarium I’ve run into:
- Picky Plants: Not every plant loves the humidity or tight space.
- Mold Risk: Too much water can lead to rot or fungus—been there, cleaned that.
- Upkeep: They’re low-maintenance, but you’ll still need to prune and clean occasionally.
- Outgrowing: Some plants get too big, forcing a tough goodbye.
Still, with the right care, these hiccups are manageable. Learn more from the University of Florida IFAS Extension.
Wrapping Up
Terrariums are a fantastic way to flex your green thumb, and with these 15 best terrarium plants, you’re set for success. Whether you’re crafting a closed terrarium or an open one, these plants will bring your mini garden to life. I’ve poured my 10 years of gardening know-how into this guide, so you can avoid my rookie mistakes and enjoy the process.
Ready to give it a go? Build your terrarium and let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear your stories or answer your questions in the comments below. Happy planting!