The 10 Easiest Terrarium Plants for Beginners

Terrariums bring a slice of nature indoors, purify the air, and add a touch of green to any space. They offer a low-maintenance option for those looking to enjoy greenery indoors without the hassle of a full garden.

For beginners, starting with plants that are easy to care for is best, as this sets you up for success and keeps the experience enjoyable.

1. Nerve Plants (Fittonia)

Nerve plants are showstoppers in any terrarium. Their leaves come in pink, red, or white veins that pop against the green background. I've found they do well in low light, which is great for darker corners.

Keep their soil moist but not soggy. They'll let you know if they're thirsty by dramatically wilting, but perk right back up after a good drink.

2. Syngonium (Arrowhead Plants)

Arrowhead plants are my go-to for adding some height to terrariums. Their leaves start arrow-shaped and get more lobed as they mature. These plants are pretty easygoing with light. I've had them thrive in both bright and dimmer spots.

They can get leggy, so don't be shy about trimming them back. 🌿

3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos are the tanks of the plant world. They can survive in some pretty rough conditions. They're perfect if you sometimes forget to water. In low light, they'll grow slower but still look healthy.

I like to let mine trail down the sides of the terrarium for a jungle vibe. 🍃

4. Pilea (Friendship Plants)

Pileas are compact little plants with round leaves that always make me smile. They prefer bright, indirect light, so I usually place them near the top of the terrarium.

They're called Friendship Plants because they produce lots of baby plants you can share with friends. 🌱

5. Ferns (e.g., Java Fern)

Ferns add a lush, prehistoric look to terrariums. Java ferns are my favorite because they're less fussy than some other types. They love humidity, so they're right at home in a closed terrarium.

I've had success growing them in various moisture levels, from sitting in water to just damp. 

6. Creeping Fig (Ficus pumila)

Creeping fig is a fun plant to watch grow. It starts small but can quickly cover a background or climb up branches. It likes bright, indirect light and regular watering. You can use it to create living walls in larger terrariums.🌿

7. Peperomia (Radiator Plants)

Peperomias are great low-maintenance plants. Their thick leaves store water, so they can handle drying out between waterings. I've found they do well in medium to bright light.

There are lots of varieties to choose from, adding different textures to your terrarium.🌱

8. Selaginella (Spikemoss)

Selaginella looks delicate but is tougher than it seems. It creates a beautiful, feathery ground cover in shaded areas of the terrarium. Keep it moist and humid, and it'll reward you with lush growth. 🌿

9. Hypoestes phyllostachya (Polka Dot Plants)

Polka dot plants add color to any terrarium. Their leaves come in pink, red, or white spots. They like bright, indirect light. Polka dot plants can get leggy, so regular pinching back keeps them bushy and full. 🎉

10. Moss (e.g., Christmas Moss)

Moss is the secret to creating that forest floor look. A favorite of many hobbyists, Christmas moss creates a lush ground cover, adding a soft, textured layer to your terrarium.

It grows well in high humidity and stays low to the ground. I use it to cover soil or wrap around branches and rocks. Keep it moist, and it'll create a lush carpet in no time.🌿

So there you have it, fellow terrarium enthusiasts! These plants are practically begging to be part of your glassy wonderland. Remember, terrariums are like little ecosystems—so go ahead, create your own tiny universe! 🌎✨