Best Plants for Indoor Terrariums

Indoor terrariums have become increasingly popular as a way to bring a touch of nature into homes and offices. These miniature ecosystems not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of any space but also provide benefits such as improving air quality and reducing stress. Creating a thriving terrarium depends largely on selecting the right plants that can flourish in the enclosed environment. This article explores some of the best plants for indoor terrariums, categorized by their growing conditions and characteristics, to help you build your perfect little green world.

Why Choose Plants for Terrariums?

Terrariums are typically small, enclosed or semi-enclosed glass containers that house plants, soil, and sometimes decorative elements like stones or figurines. Because terrariums often have high humidity and limited airflow, plant selection is crucial. The ideal plants for terrariums must tolerate:

• High humidity levels
• Low to moderate light
• Limited root space
• Minimal watering requirements

Choosing plants suited to these conditions ensures longevity and healthy growth inside your terrarium.

Types of Terrariums and Their Plant Needs

Before diving into specific plant recommendations, it’s important to understand that terrariums generally fall into two types:

1. Closed Terrariums – These have lids or are fully sealed, creating a humid microclimate with little air exchange.
2. Open Terrariums – Open at the top or sides, these offer better air circulation and lower humidity levels.

Plants that thrive in closed terrariums are usually tropical species that love moisture, whereas succulents and cacti do better in open, dry environments.

Best Plants for Closed Terrariums

Closed terrariums mimic rainforest conditions with high humidity and stable temperatures. Here are some plants that flourish in these environments:

1. Peperomia

Peperomias are compact, low-maintenance plants with thick, fleshy leaves that store water. They come in various shapes and colors—from heart-shaped leaves to striking variegations—and thrive in humid environments without needing direct sunlight.

• Care Tips: Keep soil moist but not soggy; indirect light is best.

2. Fittonia (Nerve Plant)

Fittonia is famous for its vibrant veined leaves in pink, white, or red hues. It loves the moist atmosphere of closed terrariums and adds a splash of color.

• Care Tips: Keep soil consistently moist; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.

3. Moss

Mosses are vital components of many terrariums because they retain moisture, provide ground cover, and create a lush green carpet effect.

• Care Tips: Moss thrives in damp soil with indirect light; mist regularly to maintain humidity.

4. Ferns (Maidenhair Fern, Button Fern)

Small fern varieties adapt well to the humid microclimate of closed terrariums. Maidenhair ferns showcase delicate, lacy fronds that add texture and grace.

• Care Tips: Maintain moist soil; place in low to medium indirect light.

5. Baby’s Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii)

This plant forms dense mats of tiny round leaves that look like soft green cushions. Baby’s Tears thrive in moist conditions and grow quickly, perfect for filling gaps.

• Care Tips: Keep soil moist; bright indirect light works best.

Best Plants for Open Terrariums

Open terrariums have more airflow and less humidity, so succulents and cacti perform well in these conditions due to their drought tolerance.

1. Succulents (Echeveria, Haworthia, Sedum)

Succulents store water in their thick leaves and stems. Their diverse forms—rosettes, spikes, trailing vines—make them popular choices for decorative open terrariums.

• Care Tips: Use well-draining soil; water sparingly; provide bright indirect to direct light depending on species.

2. Cacti

Cacti are desert dwellers adapted to arid environments with minimal moisture needs. Many small-sized cacti varieties fit well inside open terrarium containers.

• Care Tips: Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings; place where they get plenty of sunlight.

3. Air Plants (Tillandsia)

Air plants absorb moisture from the air through their leaves rather than roots and don’t require soil at all. They’re perfect for open terrariums or mounted decor within the container.

• Care Tips: Mist regularly or soak briefly once a week; bright indirect light preferred.

4. Crassula (Jade Plant)

Miniature jade plants can adapt well to open terrarium settings with good light. Their thick leaves add a succulent touch without overwhelming the space.

• Care Tips: Water moderately; ensure bright light exposure.

Versatile Plants That Work in Both Closed and Open Terrariums

Some plants are adaptable enough to thrive in either environment if given proper care:

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum ‘Variegatum’)

The spider plant is resilient with long arching leaves featuring white stripes. It does well with moderate watering and tolerates varying humidity levels.

• Care Tips: Keep soil slightly moist; bright indirect light preferred.

2. Pilea Peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant)

Pilea is a small plant with coin-shaped leaves on thin stems. It appreciates humidity but also grows fine in drier settings when watered appropriately.

• Care Tips: Water when top inch of soil dries out; bright indirect light suits it best.

Tips for Choosing Plants for Your Terrarium

When selecting plants for your terrarium project, consider these factors:

• Size: Choose slow-growing or dwarf varieties to avoid overcrowding.
• Light Requirements: Match plant needs with available natural or artificial lighting.
• Humidity Tolerance: Make sure plants can handle the moisture level inside your container.
• Growth Habit: Mix upright growers with ground covers or trailing species for visual interest.
• Maintenance Level: Some plants need more frequent attention—select based on your availability for care.

How to Arrange Plants Inside Your Terrarium

A beautiful terrarium isn’t just about picking the right plants—it’s also about arrangement:

1. Start by layering drainage materials like small pebbles or activated charcoal at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of potting mix suited for your chosen plants.
3. Position taller plants toward the back or center.
4. Fill spaces with smaller ground covers or moss.
5. Include decorative elements such as stones or figurines if desired.
6. Avoid overcrowding to allow airflow and growth room.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Growing Terrarium Plants

To keep your indoor jungle happy:

• Overwatering: Excess moisture can cause root rot — water sparingly especially in closed containers.
• Poor Lighting: Insufficient light leads to leggy growth or plant death.
• Overcrowding: Too many plants compete for nutrients and space.
• Ignoring Air Circulation: Even closed terrariums benefit from occasional airing out.
• Using Wrong Soil: Succulents need fast-draining mix while tropicals prefer moisture-retentive substrates.

Conclusion

Creating an indoor terrarium is a rewarding project that combines creativity with horticulture skills. Choosing the right plants based on whether your vessel is open or closed is fundamental for success. Tropical-loving varieties such as peperomia, fittonia, ferns, and moss excel in humid closed environments, while succulents, cacti, and air plants shine in open arrangements with lower humidity levels.

By paying attention to each plant’s specific needs regarding water, light, and space—and caring accordingly—you can build a stunning little ecosystem that thrives indoors year-round. With patience and care, your indoor terrarium will become a verdant focal point offering beauty and calmness wherever it stands.