Terrariums have become a favourite way to bring a touch of greenery indoors, whether you prefer a lush, humid glass garden or a dry, desert-style display. The best plants to put in a terrarium are moisture-loving tropical species for closed terrariums and drought-tolerant plants such as succulents, cacti, and air plants for open terrariums.
They’re simple to set up, but the real secret lies in choosing the right plants that will thrive in the unique environment you create. Choosing plants that suit the environment is what determines long-term success.
When considering closed terrariums, focus on plants that love moisture and lower light levels, such as mosses, ferns, and compact tropical species. Open terrariums, on the other hand, suit succulents, cacti, and air plants that prefer drier air and good airflow. With over 40 years of hands-on bonsai and plant care experience, the right plant selection consistently proves to be the difference between a thriving miniature ecosystem and one that quickly fails.
By understanding what each type of plant needs, common mistakes can be avoided and displays can last for years. Whether it’s the patterned leaves of a nerve plant in a closed jar or the sculptural form of an echeveria in an open bowl, the right choice ensures both beauty and longevity.
A terrarium plant is simply a plant that can thrive inside a glass container where conditions are quite different from the open air. These plants are chosen because they cope well with the unique environment of either a closed or open terrarium.
Terrarium plants are not just decorative. They are commonly used in miniature gardens, educational projects, hobby collections, and even as gifts. Their small size and low-maintenance nature make them appealing for beginners and experienced growers alike.
By choosing the right plant for the right type of terrarium, a balanced miniature ecosystem can be maintained that can stay healthy with minimal care.
When choosing plants for a terrarium, it is important to think about more than just appearance. The right plants stay healthy in a small, enclosed space and don’t outgrow their container too quickly. Compact, slow-growing species with manageable leaf size fit best.
Moisture needs also matter. Closed terrariums suit plants that enjoy humidity, like ferns and mosses. Open terrariums, on the other hand, are better for succulents, cacti, and air plants that prefer drier conditions. Matching the plant to the environment prevents rot or stress.
Light tolerance is another key factor. Most terrarium plants thrive in bright but indirect light. Direct sunlight can overheat the glass and scorch delicate leaves. Choosing plants that adapt well to filtered light makes care easier.
Compatibility is important when mixing species. Plants sharing similar water, light, and soil needs will co-exist better. If one plant requires constant moisture and another prefers dry soil, one of them will struggle.
A simple checklist helps too:
For example, one beginner set up a closed terrarium with ferns and mosses. Six months later, every plant was still thriving, with no losses. This shows how picking the right species can make care straightforward and rewarding.
Closed terrariums create a warm, humid, and low-light environment that suits small tropical plants. Choosing species that thrive in these conditions ensures healthy growth, less maintenance, and a balanced miniature ecosystem.
| Plant | Light | Water needs | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cacti | Bright direct or indirect | Very low — every 2–3 weeks | Structure and texture |
| Haworthia | Bright indirect | Very low — every 2–3 weeks | Compact rosette form |
| Crassula ovata (Jade) | Bright | Low — allow to dry fully | Tree-like structure |
| Air plants | Bright indirect | Mist weekly or soak fortnightly | Soil-free displays |
| Ferns (open-tolerant) | Indirect | Moderate — keep slightly moist | Softening structure |
Ferns are some of the best plants for closed terrariums because they love moisture and indirect light. Their feathery fronds add a soft texture that contrasts well with bolder foliage.
Popular options include Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum aethiopicum), Button Fern (Pellaea rotundifolia), Lemon Button Fern (Nephrolepis cordifolia), and the Common Asparagus Fern (Asparagus setaceus). Each stays compact, making them perfect for glass containers. Maidenhair ferns spread delicately, button ferns stay neat and rounded, while lemon button ferns bring a fresh, citrus-green colour.
Avoid sword ferns or crocodile ferns in small jars as they grow too large. Occasional pruning helps keep size under control. With steady humidity, ferns rarely need extra watering, thanks to the natural water cycle inside the terrarium.
Mosses thrive in the damp, enclosed conditions of sealed terrariums. They act as natural ground cover, preventing soil from drying out and adding a lush carpet-like effect.
Cushion moss, sphagnum moss, and sheet moss are excellent choices. Cushion moss forms soft, rounded mounds, while sphagnum moss retains moisture well and supports other plants. Sheet moss spreads evenly, creating a smooth green floor.
Moss can be used to fill gaps between larger plants or to cover exposed soil. It also helps stabilise humidity by absorbing and releasing moisture. Mosses grow best in shaded spots, so they pair well with taller plants that provide cover.
Miniature ivy cultivars, such as English Ivy (Hedera helix), adapt well to closed terrariums. Their trailing stems climb glass walls or spread across the soil, adding vertical interest.
Dwarf varieties are best because standard ivy can quickly outgrow the container. Look for cultivars with smaller leaves and slower growth. Variegated types with white and green foliage brighten darker corners of the terrarium.
Prune ivy regularly to prevent it from taking over. When kept in check, ivy complements ferns, mosses, and compact tropicals. Its ability to thrive in medium to low light makes it a reliable choice for sealed jars.
Fittonia albivenis, also called nerve plant, is a favourite for its colourful, veined leaves. The foliage comes in shades of pink, red, white, or green, adding contrast to the terrarium’s greenery.
Fittonia grows low and spreads across the soil, making it an excellent filler plant. It thrives in high humidity and low to medium light, which matches the conditions of closed terrariums perfectly.
Keep the soil evenly moist, as fittonia wilts quickly if it dries out. However, it recovers fast when watered. Compact growth and vibrant leaf patterns make it a reliable centrepiece or companion plant in glass containers.
Pilea species are versatile and easy to grow in sealed terrariums. Their small size and preference for humidity make them well-suited to confined spaces.
Good options include:
Pileas are valued because they stay compact with minimal pruning. They tolerate low to medium light and provide a mix of textures, from trailing mats to upright clusters. Their adaptability makes them one of the easiest terrarium plants to manage.
Calatheas are prized for their strikingly patterned leaves, which bring colour and variety to terrariums. Compact varieties such as Calathea ornata or Calathea makoyana fit well in enclosed glass containers.
They prefer indirect light, consistent warmth, and high humidity. Closed terrariums mimic these conditions, helping calatheas maintain vibrant foliage.
Care is needed with watering. Calatheas dislike soggy soil, so a well-draining substrate and careful moisture control are essential. Their leaves may curl or brown if the humidity drops, making terrariums one of the best environments for them.
The Parlour Palm (Chamaedorea elegans) adds a tropical feel with its slender, arching fronds. It is slow-growing and stays compact, making it suitable for medium to large closed terrariums.
Unlike many palms, it tolerates lower light levels. This makes it an excellent choice for indoor glass environments. Its upright shape also provides height and structure among smaller ground-covering plants.
Avoid overcrowding when planting a parlour palm. Giving it space allows air circulation and prevents fungal issues. With minimal care, it can thrive for years in a sealed terrarium.
African Violets (Saintpaulia) bring a splash of colour with their small, vibrant blooms. Their compact size and preference for humidity make them a good fit for closed terrariums.
They do best in bright, indirect light and require careful watering. Bottom watering is recommended to prevent water from sitting on the leaves, which can cause rot.
African violets pair well with mosses or low-growing plants to highlight their flowers. They need slightly more attention than foliage-only species, but the reward is continuous, colourful blooms in a controlled environment.
Begonias, especially Rex Begonias and miniature hybrids, thrive in closed terrariums where humidity remains high. Their bold, patterned leaves provide strong visual interest.
Species like Strawberry Begonia (Saxifraga stolonifera) spread with runners, covering the soil with attractive foliage. Although not a true begonia, it grows well in the same conditions.
Begonias prefer warmth, indirect light, and evenly moist soil. They are sensitive to overwatering, so good drainage layers are important. With regular pruning, they stay compact and bushy, making them a colourful and reliable addition to sealed terrariums.
Step-by-step guide:
Checklist – avoid these mistakes:
With the right layering and plant choices, a closed terrarium becomes a thriving miniature ecosystem.
Open terrariums work best with plants that prefer drier air, lower humidity, and good airflow. Succulents, cacti, and air plants thrive in these conditions, while some ferns and compact varieties like Haworthia can also adapt well with the right care.
| Plant | Light | Water needs | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferns | Low–medium indirect | High — self-sustaining in sealed setup | Texture and greenery |
| Mosses | Low indirect | High — ground cover and humidity regulation | Filling gaps, beginners |
| Fittonia | Low–medium indirect | High — wilts quickly if dry | Colour and pattern |
| Pilea | Low–medium indirect | Moderate–high | Trailing and texture variety |
| Calathea | Indirect, consistent warmth | Moderate — dislikes soggy soil | Bold foliage |
| Begonia | Indirect | Moderate — sensitive to overwatering | Visual interest |
Cacti are one of the most reliable choices for open terrariums because they thrive in bright light and dry air. Their natural desert adaptations mean they store water in their stems, so they only need watering once the soil is completely dry.
Always use a well-draining substrate. A mix of sand, grit, and cactus compost prevents root rot. Adding a drainage layer of pebbles at the bottom also helps.
Miniature species such as Mammillaria or Rebutia fit well in small glass containers. They stay compact, grow slowly, and add interesting textures with their spines and rounded forms.
Because cacti dislike excess moisture, it’s best not to combine them with humidity-loving plants like moss or tropical ferns. Instead, pair them with other succulents such as Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum) or Panda Plant (Kalanchoe tomentosa) for a cohesive, low-water display.
Key care points for cacti in open terrariums:
Although most ferns prefer humidity, a few tolerate drier, open terrarium conditions. The Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus) and Crocodile Fern (Microsorum musifolium) are good examples. They adapt better to open air than delicate varieties like maidenhair ferns.
Ferns add a lush, leafy texture that contrasts nicely with succulents or vines such as English Ivy (Hedera helix). Their spreading fronds soften the sharp lines of cacti or succulents, making the terrarium look more balanced.
Keep the soil slightly moist but never waterlogged. Using a peat-free mix with good aeration works well. Unlike succulents, ferns benefit from occasional misting, but in an open terrarium, the airflow prevents mould from developing.
If we want to mix ferns with other plants, it’s best to choose species that tolerate moderate watering, such as Peperomia caperata or Radiator Plants. This prevents conflicting care needs.
Tips for ferns in open terrariums:
Air plants, or Tillandsia, are perfect for open terrariums because they don’t need soil. Instead, they absorb moisture and nutrients through their leaves. They can be attached to driftwood, shells, or stones, making them very versatile for design.
They thrive in bright, indirect light and need good air circulation. A weekly misting or a short soak in water every 1–2 weeks keeps them healthy. After watering, allow them to dry fully before placing them back to avoid rot.
Air plants pair well with succulents, Earth Stars (Cryptanthus), or trailing species like String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus). Their sculptural shapes add height and variety without taking up much space.
Some popular species include Tillandsia ionantha and Tillandsia xerographica. Both remain compact and are easy to maintain indoors.
Quick care checklist:
Crassula ovata, commonly called the Jade Plant, is a hardy succulent that adapts well to open terrariums. Its thick, glossy leaves store water, so it only needs occasional watering. This makes it a low-maintenance option for beginners.
Because it grows slowly, it fits nicely in small containers without outgrowing them too quickly. Over time, it develops a tree-like form, adding structure and height to the terrarium.
Plant it in a gritty, free-draining soil mix. Overwatering is the main risk, so it’s best to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. A terrarium with a wide opening is ideal, as jade plants dislike excess humidity.
Jade plants combine well with other succulents like Haworthia or trailing plants such as Peperomia prostrata (String of Turtles). These companions share similar care needs, which makes maintenance easier.
Care essentials for Crassula ovata:
Haworthia is a compact succulent with rosettes of fleshy, patterned leaves. Its small size makes it one of the best plants for open terrariums, especially when space is limited.
It thrives in bright but indirect light and tolerates lower light better than many other succulents. This makes it suitable for indoor terrariums placed near windows but not in direct sun.
Haworthias need very little water. Every 2–3 weeks is usually enough, and less during winter. Like jade plants, they require a gritty, well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot.
Their neat rosette form pairs well with trailing plants such as Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) or Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum). These combinations create contrast between upright and cascading growth.
Popular varieties include Haworthia fasciata (Zebra Plant) with its white-striped leaves, and Haworthia cooperi, which has translucent tips. Both stay small and remain easy to manage.
Key reminders for Haworthia:
When selecting plants for a terrarium, consider how much water they require, the type of light they can tolerate, and how large they might grow over time. Choosing plants with similar needs helps create a balanced and low-maintenance environment.
Water is one of the most important factors in a terrarium. Plants that thrive in constant humidity, such as ferns, mosses, and nerve plants, do best in closed terrariums. On the other hand, succulents and cacti prefer drier conditions and are better suited to open terrariums where moisture levels stay lower.
Mixing these two groups rarely works. If succulents are placed with humidity-loving plants, one side will suffer, succulents may rot while tropical plants may dry out. To avoid this, group plants with similar watering needs in the same container.
A simple rule is:
This approach keeps maintenance straightforward and prevents common issues like mould or root rot.
Light levels directly affect plant health. Some terrarium plants, like polka dot plants and aluminium plants, prefer bright but indirect light. Direct sun can quickly overheat a glass container, so avoid placing terrariums on south-facing windowsills.
For low-light rooms, such as north-facing spaces or offices, shade-tolerant plants like mosses, ferns, or prayer plants are suitable choices. These adapt well to dimmer conditions and maintain their colour without much sunlight.
If natural light is limited, LED grow lights can be used. They provide consistent brightness without producing too much heat. Keeping the light source about 20–30 cm above the terrarium usually works well.
Matching plants to the available light reduces stress and helps them grow steadily without stretching or fading.
Terrariums look best when plants have room to breathe. Choosing compact or slow-growing species prevents overcrowding and makes maintenance easier. For example, baby tears and ripple plants stay small and suit tight spaces, while creeping fig or pothos can quickly take over if not trimmed.
Fast-growing or sprawling plants require frequent pruning. Without regular trimming, leaves may press against the glass, leading to rot and poor airflow.
A good practice is to measure the terrarium container and select plants that won’t outgrow it within a year. Dwarf varieties, miniature ferns, and mosses are reliable options for keeping proportions balanced.
Before planting, allow nursery plants to adjust to indoor conditions for a few days. This reduces transplant shock.
It’s also important to clean the roots. Gently remove excess soil, check for pests, and trim damaged roots if needed. Starting with healthy, pest-free plants gives the terrarium the best chance to thrive.
Start with the enclosure type, not the plant. Every decision that follows, which species to choose, how to water, how much light is needed, flows from whether you are building a closed or open terrarium. A closed terrarium for moisture-loving species is a fundamentally different environment from an open bowl for succulents, and mixing plants from the two groups is the single most common reason terrariums fail in the first few weeks.
In our experience at Miyagi Bonsai, the most successful terrariums are built around three to five compatible species with identical care needs rather than as many plants as the container will hold. Less is more; a well-chosen, well-spaced display is easier to maintain and lasts significantly longer than an overcrowded one.
Miyagi Bonsai stocks a carefully chosen range of terrarium plants, closed and open terrarium kits, substrates, and accessories, with next working day UK delivery available on most orders. The products and recommendations in this guide reflect what we stock, use and see working for our customers every day. We are rated 5 stars across over 100 Google reviews, and our team is on hand by email and phone if you have any questions about plant selection, terrarium setup, or ongoing care.
The following frequently asked questions address common concerns about choosing and caring for terrarium plants, including which species suit closed or open terrariums, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to keep plants healthy long term.
The best plants for a beginner’s terrarium are fittonia, mosses, pilea, haworthia, and jade plants. These species stay compact, tolerate minor care mistakes, and adapt well to stable indoor conditions. Their slow growth and low maintenance make them ideal for first-time terrarium setups.
Plants that thrive in closed terrariums are moisture-loving tropical species such as ferns, mosses, fittonia, pilea, and begonias. These plants benefit from high humidity, consistent warmth, and indirect light. Closed terrariums create a self-contained environment that supports these conditions with minimal ongoing watering.
Small plants ideal for miniature terrariums include baby tears, miniature ferns, pilea depressa, fittonia, and mosses. These species remain compact, spread slowly, and suit confined glass containers. Their manageable size helps prevent overcrowding and reduces the need for frequent pruning or maintenance.
Creative plant ideas for open terrariums include combining succulents like haworthia and echeveria with air plants or trailing species such as string of pearls. This mix adds height, texture, and contrast while keeping care requirements consistent. Open terrariums suit drought-tolerant plants that prefer airflow and drier conditions.
Terrarium plants can be purchased from specialist houseplant nurseries, garden centres, online plant retailers, and bonsai suppliers. Look for sellers offering miniature or slow-growing varieties suitable for enclosed spaces. Healthy, pest-free plants with compact growth habits are best for long-term terrarium success.
Terrarium plants stay healthy when light, water, and humidity match their environment. Closed terrariums need minimal watering and indirect light, while open terrariums require well-draining soil and infrequent watering. Regular monitoring, light pruning, and avoiding overcrowding help maintain balanced, long-lasting plant growth.
Mixing succulents and ferns in the same terrarium is not recommended. Ferns require consistently high humidity and moist soil to thrive, while succulents need dry conditions and good airflow to prevent rot. Placing them together creates a conflict; the moisture levels that keep ferns healthy will cause succulents to rot, and the dry conditions that suit succulents will cause ferns to wilt and die. The solution is to keep them in separate enclosures: ferns in a closed terrarium and succulents in an open one. If you want to display both together visually, use two separate containers placed side by side.
Plants to avoid in terrariums include fast-growing or large-leafed species that will quickly outgrow the container, such as pothos, monster, or standard-sized ferns like sword fern or crocodile fern in small jars. Succulents and cacti should never be placed in closed terrariums; the trapped humidity causes root rot rapidly. Mint and other herbs are unsuitable as they spread aggressively and are difficult to contain. Plants that require very specific or extreme conditions, such as carnivorous plants, which need distilled water and very specific humidity, are better kept in dedicated setups rather than mixed terrariums.
As a general guide, three to five plants is the right number for most terrarium containers. This gives each plant enough space to establish and grow without overcrowding, which can cause poor airflow, mould, and root competition. For a small jar of 10–15 litres, two to three species are sufficient: a ground cover such as moss, a mid-height plant such as fittonia, and a taller structural plant such as a small fern. Larger containers of 30 litres or more can support four to six plants. The key principle is to leave space between plants at the time of planting; they will fill in naturally as they grow, and overcrowding at the start is harder to correct later.
Moss is the easiest terrarium plant to keep alive in a closed setup. Once established in a sealed terrarium with the correct moisture level, it requires almost no intervention; the internal water cycle maintains humidity automatically, and moss tolerates low light better than almost any other plant. For open terrariums, Haworthia is the most forgiving choice; it tolerates irregular watering, lower light than most succulents, and a wide range of temperatures. Both species are recommended as the starting point for anyone new to terrariums, and both are available from Miyagi Bonsai as part of beginner-friendly kits.
