The Ultimate Guide to Terrarium Plants: 25 Easy Options for Open or Closed Glass Containers

Terrariums are like miniature ecosystems housed in clear glass containers where plants can thrive. Whether you choose an open or closed terrarium, these mini gardens are a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts. The controlled environment of a terrarium allows for easy monitoring of factors like temperature and humidity, similar to a greenhouse. Closed terrariums, completely enclosed glass containers, create a humid environment that recycles air, while open terrariums have a top or side opening for airflow.

When selecting plants for your terrarium, it’s essential to consider the growing requirements of each plant, including humidity, watering, soil, and light. Closed terrariums are ideal for humidity-loving plants that thrive in consistently moist conditions, while open terrariums are suitable for plants that can tolerate above-average humidity. Here’s a list of 25 easy terrarium plant ideas for both open and closed glass terrariums:

Benefits of Closed Terrariums

Recycles air within the container
Creates a humid environment that mimics a mini ecosystem

Benefits of Open Terrariums

Receives fresh air for less humidity
Suitable for plants that can handle above-average humidity

Artillery Fern

Artillery ferns are not actually ferns but belong to the Pilea family. These delicate plants shoot seeds with a popping sound and have an interesting texture. They thrive in closed terrariums due to their love for moisture and humidity.

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Aluminum Plant

The aluminum plant, native to Vietnam, features iridescent white markings on its leaves. It does well in closed terrariums due to its preference for a humid environment.

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Polka Dot Plant

With its cheerful appearance and pink, red, or silver leaves, the polka dot plant is easy to care for in a closed terrarium. Regular pinching back will keep this plant looking its best.

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Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)

The red-veined prayer plant folds its leaves at night, resembling hands in prayer. Ideal for closed terrariums, it requires greenhouse-like conditions with high humidity.

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Pothos

Golden pothos, known for its indestructible nature, thrives in the controlled environment of a closed terrarium. Regular pruning is essential to prevent unruliness.

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Ripple Plant

The ripple plant, with its deeply ridged leaves, adds a pop of color to closed terrariums. Known for its showy flower spikes, this plant does well in warm and humid environments.

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Baby Tears

Also known as angel’s tears or mind-your-own-business, baby tears are low-growing plants suitable for closed terrariums. In the right conditions, they behave well and add a lush greenery.

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Button Fern

The small button fern is hardy and drought-tolerant, making it a great addition to open terrariums. Its delicate appearance adds elegance to any terrarium setup.

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Creeping Fig

With its variegated heart-shaped leaves, creeping fig is a lovely addition to terrariums. Ideal for closed terrariums, this perennial vine thrives in warm, moist conditions.

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Croton

Croton plants feature shiny, colorful leaves that add a touch of bling to terrariums. While not commonly used, they work well in large, open terrariums where they can showcase their vibrant colors.

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Hens and Chicks

Succulents like hens and chicks are perfect for open terrariums due to their small size and low maintenance. Pair different succulents for a desert-themed terrarium.

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Sphagnum Moss

Used for its practical and decorative purposes, sphagnum moss stores water in terrariums. Ideal for both open and closed setups, regular misting is necessary to keep it thriving.

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Air Plants

Air plants attach themselves to surfaces and absorb water through their leaves. Perfect for open terrariums, these plants should not be overwatered to prevent drowning from excess humidity.

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African Violet

Bright, warm, and humid conditions are ideal for African violets, making them perfect for closed terrariums. Care must be taken to prevent water from collecting on leaves to avoid rot.

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Nerve Plant

Nerve plants, with their variegated leaves and love for humidity, are classic choices for closed terrariums. Their beauty makes them suitable as the main plant in any terrarium setup.

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Maidenhair Fern

Delicate maidenhair ferns thrive in high humidity and are difficult to grow indoors unless in a terrarium or greenhouse. Regular trimming may be necessary to maintain their size in a terrarium.

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Venus Flytrap

Carnivorous plants like the venus flytrap thrive in high humidity environments. Making a unique addition to closed terrariums, these plants require periodic feeding to survive.

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Frosty Fern Spike Moss

Frosty fern spike moss, with its bright white-tipped foliage, adds a unique touch to terrariums. Ideal for closed terrariums, this moss thrives in low light and high humidity.

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Living Stones

Living stones, or lithops, are small succulents great for open terrariums. Their rock-like appearance and showy flowers make them a quirky and colorful addition to any terrarium.

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Pilea Silver Sparkle

Known for its tiny silver-grey leaves and red stems, pilea silver sparkle thrives in high humidity environments. Ideal for closed terrariums, regular watering will keep this plant healthy.

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Haworthia

Small succulent plants like haworthia are perfect for open terrariums. Their slow-growing nature and aloe-like appearance make them a great addition to any terrarium setup.

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Friendship Plant

With its deeply textured foliage, the friendship plant thrives in warm and humid conditions, making it perfect for closed terrariums. Consistent moisture and indirect light are key to its care.

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Strawberry Begonia

Strawberry begonias add visual interest to terrariums with their textured leaves and colorful petioles. Suitable for open or closed setups, these plants require regular watering to thrive.

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String of Turtles

String of turtles, with its succulent-like leaves, is best suited for open terrariums. Pair them with tropical plants for a cohesive terrarium arrangement.

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Peperomia Pixie Lime

Compact and cute, peperomia pixie lime thrives in medium to high humidity environments. Ideal for open or closed terrariums, these plants add unique flower spikes to the setup.

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When selecting plants for a closed terrarium, avoid drought-tolerant plants like succulents that cannot withstand high humidity levels. Open terrariums, while less humid, still require plants that can tolerate above-average humidity. It’s essential to balance moisture levels in both types of terrariums to prevent issues like mold growth and pests.

While closed terrariums can be relatively low-maintenance due to their self-sustaining ecosystem, open terrariums may require more frequent watering. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent plant damage. Regular monitoring and care will ensure that your terrarium plants thrive in their glass enclosure.

In conclusion, terrarium plants are a beautiful and easy way to bring nature indoors. Whether you opt for an open or closed terrarium, there are plenty of plant options to suit your style and preferences. With the right plant selection and care, your terrarium can become a flourishing miniature garden that adds a touch of greenery to any space. So, go ahead and create your own little piece of nature in a glass container with these easy terrarium plant ideas!