Thriving Plants for Enclosed Terrariums: Recommendations from the Pros
In a nutshell, closed terrarium plants are those that thrive in the warm, humid environment of a sealed terrarium. But to make things more interesting, let's focus on the tiny, compact plants that can handle low airflow and exhibit some eye-catching beauty or unique characteristics.
Let's dive right in!
Selecting Plants for a Closed Terrarium
Compact & Cute Terrarium Ferns
Ferns are perfect for life in closed terrariums. They not only provide texture but also look oh-so-adorable. Look for compact, easy-to-care-for varieties, such as mini dwarf versions of popular houseplant species.
- Lemon Button Fern (Nephrolepis cordifolia 'Duffii')
This adorable, mini Lemon Button Fern is versatile and perfect for smaller closed terrariums. With overarching fronds and the ability to be divided into multiple tiny clumps for placement, it's a fantastic find!
- Fluffy Ruffles Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata 'Fluffy Ruffles')
This cute and full-looking fern is incredibly easy to use and works great in the foreground for a quick texture boost.
- Heart Fern (Hemionitis arifolia)
Don't let its larger size intimidate you. It's still quite manageable and is a perfect choice for some extra charm. Its stalk-like fronds are easy to trim back at the base.
Delicate Terrarium Vines
Terrarium vines can be a varied mix of trailing, climbing, and creeping tropical plants that are suitable for growing in or on the ground of a terrarium. For a closed environment, look for small, delicate vines. These beautiful plants will weave among the moss and hardscape, adding a dynamic, natural touch.
- Pilea glauca* 'Aquamarine'
Its elegant, metallic gray-green leaves provide a stunning contrast against typical terrarium greenery. It's an ideal choice for ground cover or as an accent piece.
- Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig)
This popular choice is a strong grower, thriving in humid and moist conditions. A few cuttings can easily fill out your terrarium, making it perfect for adding a sense of scale and wildness.
- String of Turtles (Peperomia prostrata)
This tiny, tropical semi-succulent plant is loved in the terrarium, succulent, and houseplant worlds. It's easy to grow and propagate, making it a great addition to your tiny botanical wonderland.
- Peacock Plant (Selaginella uncinata)
This iridescent blue fern-like vine is a marvel in the world of tropical terrariums. It's hardy, perfectly suited to terrarium life, and easy to grow. Could it be the perfect beginner terrarium plant?
Showstopper Foliage Plants
In the realm of plants, foliage refers to those prized for their stunning leafage rather than their flowers. Here we have a group featuring many different plant types, from lush tropical greenery to palm-like plants, all noted for their larger, vibrant, or unique leaves.
- Fittonia sp.
Fittonia is a classic terrarium plant, with delicate veined leaves that come in various beautiful colors. They typically grow compactly, making them a great choice for creating a lush, green atmosphere.
- Pilea Moon Valley (Pilea mollis)
This plant is more petite and compact than the Aluminum Plant, making it a better fit for our miniature terrarium ecosystems.
- Little Tree Plant (Biophytum Sensitivum)
This tiny, tree-like plant is perfect for creating a palm-like tropical aesthetic on a mini scale. It thrives in high-moisture environments and never grows beyond a few inches tall.
- Earth Stars (Cryptanthus bivittatus)
These vibrant, low-light-loving plants are true superstars, capable of thriving in challenging conditions. They come in numerous vivid colors and are perfect for creating a lush, varied landscape in your closed terrarium.
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In the realm of terrarium plant selection, compact ferns such as the Lemon Button Fern (Nephrolepis cordifolia 'Duffii') and Fluffy Ruffles Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata 'Fluffy Ruffles') are suitable choices due to their small size and low airflow requirements. For a unique touch, consider delicate terrarium vines like the String of Turtles (Peperomia prostrata) or the iridescent Peacock Plant (Selaginella uncinata). These small, beautiful plants will weave among the moss and hardscape, adding a dynamic, natural touch to your closed terrarium.
