Imagine tiny worlds thriving under your care, a miniature landscape you can watch grow and change. Open terrariums offer this magical possibility, bringing a touch of the wild indoors. But when it comes to picking the perfect plants for these open-air ecosystems, it can feel like a puzzle.
Many plant lovers get stuck. They worry about plants wilting too fast, or growing too big, or simply not looking right together. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer variety of options, and the thought of accidentally choosing the wrong one can be discouraging. You want your open terrarium to be a success, a beautiful, living decoration.
This post is here to help! We’ll guide you through the wonderful world of plants that will absolutely flourish in your open terrarium. You’ll learn what makes a plant a good fit, discover some amazing and easy-to-care-for choices, and even get tips on how to arrange them for a stunning display. Get ready to transform your space with your very own miniature green paradise.
Top Open Terrarium Plants Recommendations
No. 1
10 Assorted Live Succulent Cuttings, No 2 Succulents Alike, Great for Terrariums, Mini Gardens, and as Starter Plants by The Succulent Cult
- GUARANTEE HEALTHY ARRIVAL: Healthy arrival of cuttings with no roots or soil. for Every order comes with THE SUCCULENT CULT GUARANTEE of live healthy succulent cuttings and our assurance that you will adore your succulent cuttings.
- UNIQUE VARIETIES: You will receive assorted succulent cuttings ranging from 1" to 3" in diameter or length NO ROOTS INCLUDED (depending on the variety and how they grow). Please note that our nursery growing cycle changes year-round, so varieties/species we send will vary weekly. Also note that during transit plants that had color to it seems to turn a blueish green in some cases because of the lack of light.
- WHATS INCLUDED?: Succulent Cuttings with NO ROOTS, NO SOIL, NO POTS included. Please read the listing to be well informed of what you will be receiving as these cuttings will not include roots, soil, or pots. You WILL NOT receive exactly what is pictured as these are randomly selected by our staff on per order basis depending on availability of course.
- UNIQUE GIFTS: Everyone loves receiving succulents as a gift, from moms and dads to grandma's and grandpas. Our succulent cuttings are sure to put a smile on anyone's face no matter the person or occasion.
- DYI DECOR: Succulent cuttings are a great DYI project idea to add character to your home. Let your imagination run wild in creating something original and personal. Put them on display in geometric vases, unconventional planters such as baskets, lanterns, birdhouses, to wall mounts, dinner table centerpieces, or even desk decor.
No. 2
Xyingshine Glass Terrarium Jar with 5W LED Grow Light, 8.7 Inch | 3 color modes, dimmable light, USB powered, wide opening, for moss, succulents, mini plants, shelves and home office decor
- Modern Glass Terrarium with Targeted Light — This desktop plant terrarium combines a clear glass terrarium jar with a 5W LED grow light, helping your moss, succulents, and mini terrarium plants stay beautifully displayed even in low-light corners. Designed for home office decor, shelves, and bedside styling, it adds a clean, modern look while creating a warm and calming plant display.
- Easy for Moss, Succulents & Mini Plants — Sized for versatile indoor styling, this glass plant terrarium is ideal for terrarium moss, moss for terrarium setups, succulents, and other small plants. The open design makes it easier to build your own miniature landscape, refresh your arrangement, or create a personalized plant terrarium display that fits your décor style.
- 3 Color Dimming for Everyday Ambience — Switch between lighting tones to highlight your glass terrarium the way you like. Whether you want a brighter look for your terrarium plants during the day or a softer glow for evening décor, the built-in terrarium light helps make your display feel more dynamic, decorative, and enjoyable to look at every day.
- Wide Opening, Easy Styling & Care — With a comfortable mouth opening, this terrarium jar is easier to arrange with moss, stones, and miniature accents. It is also more convenient for planting, light cleanup, and occasional watering, making it a practical choice for beginners and plant lovers who want a beautiful glass terrarium without complicated daily maintenance.
- What You Get for a Stylish Indoor Display — Your set includes the glass bottle, LED light assembly, hardware, and instruction manual, so you can start creating a modern desktop plant terrarium right away. A thoughtful choice for personal use or as a gift for plant lovers, this glass terrarium brings greenery, light, and décor together in one compact setup.
No. 3
Mkono Plant Terrarium Display Glass Tabletop Succulent Air Plant Planter Globe Microlandschaft House, M
- Special Oblique Mouth Design: Crystal clear hand-blown glass creates a fashion life atmosphere and makes your life more poetic and relaxing
- Premium Material Construction: Made of high borosilicate and high quality glass, strong and durable, water-saving drought-resistant, pervious to light, not easy deformation, corrosion resistance
- Versatile Application: Suitable for balcony garden, furniture, home gardening, desk, hotel, or home and wedding decoration with modern design to any space
- Multi-Purpose Decorative Container: Fits small plants, cobble, or other decorative objects and can be used as an eye-catching decorative accent or centerpiece for any space, also functions as a candlestick to create sweet atmosphere
- Product Specifications: Size M measures 5 1/2 inches in diameter, please note that this item does not include any accessories, Mkono is a registered trademark with professional manufacturing
No. 4
libproqia No-Door Glass Terrarium Planter for Succulents, Cactus & Moss | Black geometric glass container for small plant displays; plants/decor not included; best for dry or lightly misted setups.
- Open Terrarium for Small Plants: This geometric glass terrarium is designed for small succulents, cacti, moss, air plants and miniature plant arrangements. The open-front design allows better airflow and easy viewing for a clean tabletop display.
- Open-Front, No Door Design: Unlike closed terrariums made for moisture-loving plants, this open glass planter is ideal for drought-tolerant plants that prefer ventilation. It does not have a front door and is not a sealed terrarium.
- Compact Tabletop Size: Measures 6.5"L x 5.7"W x 9.8"H. Perfect for desks, shelves, windowsills, coffee tables and office corners. Please check the size before purchase; plants, soil, rocks and decorations are not included.
- Clear Glass with Black Metal Frame: Made with clear glass panels and a black geometric frame, this irregular prism terrarium adds a modern accent to home, office, patio or shelf decor while keeping your small plant arrangement visible from every angle.
- For Dry or Lightly Watered Arrangements: Best for dry plant displays or lightly misted plants. This container is not designed to hold standing water and may leak if water is poured directly into it. Use a spray bottle for light watering only.
No. 5
DUSPRO DIY Terrarium Starter Kit, Plant Terrarium Kit (Medium Size) | Creative DIY Gift for Plant Lovers, Build Your Own Terrarium, Easy Beginner Project with Step-by-Step Guide
- Terrarium Starter Kit With Essential Materials: This plant terrarium kit brings together the core materials, tools and step-by-step guide needed to start your terrarium project. Includes potting mix, pumice, zeolite, green moss, sphagnum moss, decorative stone, mesh and care tools. Designed for approximately 5–7 inch glass jars or containers, depending on container shape and layer thickness. Plants and glass container are not included. To complete your project, add an open glass container and suitable succulents or air plants; plants and container are sold separately.
- Beginner-friendly, Layer-by-layer Guide: New to terrariums? Follow the included step-by-step guide to arrange the substrate, mesh, potting mix, moss and decorative materials. Pumice and zeolite form the lower substrate layer, while mesh helps separate it from the potting mix above. Moss and decorative stone add natural texture and finishing details. The guide helps beginners build their terrarium layer by layer with less guesswork.
- Made Primarily For Open Terrariums: Designed primarily for open terrarium projects such as succulent, air plant and miniature garden displays. Choose plants with similar light and moisture needs and follow the included care guide for watering. Different plants may require different materials and care routines, so adjust your setup to match the plants you choose.
- A Creative Gift For Plant Lovers: Looking for a terrarium kit adults can enjoy as a creative activity? This DIY terrarium kit lets them arrange the layers, add moss and decorative details, and create a miniature landscape that reflects their personal style. More than a ready-made item, it offers a hands-on creative experience and makes a thoughtful gift for plant lovers, friends and family on birthdays, holidays or other special occasions.
- Quality Commitment: We ensure that our indoor terrarium kit for succulents undergoes strict quality control procedures to meet our quality requirements. Each kit is checked before packing to confirm the included materials, tools and guide. If for any reason, you are not fully satisfied with our product, please feel free to contact us, and our professional customer service staff will be delighted to provide you with a replacement or refund.
No. 6
PYEF CRAFTS Terrarium Kit, DIY Supplies for Your Own Jar, 34-68 fl oz | Terrarium starter kit with supplies and tools sized for 34 fl oz jars, suitable up to 68 fl oz, jar and plants not included
- NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED | Build your own terrarium using a jar or container you already have. Designed for containers up to 68 fl oz, with clear instructions that make the process simple from start to finish.
- SELF SUSTAINING CLOSED ECOSYSTEM | Add the plants you choose and close your container. Once established, the terrarium creates its own water cycle through condensation and needs barely any watering.
- ESSENTIAL TERRARIUM SUPPLIES | Coconut soil, decorative stones, sphagnum moss, activated charcoal, tweezers, spoon and illustrated guide, ideal for a 34 fl oz jar. In containers up to 68 fl oz, the layers will be thinner.
- DESIGNED FOR ADULTS AND PLANT LOVERS | A calm DIY project that lets you turn your own jar, bowl or glass container into a miniature ecosystem. Works beautifully with Fittonia, mini ferns, Tillandsia air plants, moss or small succulents.
- A THOUGHTFUL GIFT THEY WILL ACTUALLY USE | A creative terrarium starter kit for birthdays, housewarmings or holidays. Everything needed to build something living and personal using a container they already have.
No. 7
Mini Ferns for Terrariums/Fairy Garden - 5 Different Plants-2" Pots
- The mini fern assortment varies with the season
- Trim as needed
- Easy to grow
- Excellent for terrariums
- Garden & Patio
No. 8
Mini Terrarium Plants (2 Plants) Fairy Garden Plants (Assorted Varieties) (2" Pots)
- Mini Terrarium Plants (2 Plants) Assorted Varieties
- Plants that thrive in high humidity envioments like Fairy Gardens and Terrariums or can be grown as houseplants in larger pots
- Licensed to Ship to California
- Order multiple sets for all different plants
Choosing the Best Open Terrarium Plants: A Complete Guide
Open terrariums are like mini-gardens in a glass container. They are easier to care for than closed terrariums because they don’t trap as much moisture. This makes them a great choice for beginners. Picking the right plants is important for a healthy and beautiful terrarium.
Key Features to Look For
When you buy plants for your open terrarium, keep a few things in mind.
- Drought Tolerance: Open terrariums have more airflow, which means they dry out faster. Plants that don’t need a lot of water are best. Look for plants with thick leaves or fuzzy textures. These often store water well.
- Sunlight Needs: Think about where you will put your terrarium. Some plants need bright, indirect light. Others do well in lower light. Match the plant’s needs to your home’s light conditions.
- Slow Growth: You don’t want plants that will quickly outgrow their glass home. Slow-growing plants will stay smaller for longer. This means less trimming and fuss.
- Small Size: Choose plants that are naturally small or stay small. Big plants will quickly fill up the terrarium and look crowded.
Important Materials
Besides the plants, you’ll need a few other things to build your open terrarium.
- Container: Any clear glass container works. Jars, bowls, or even fish tanks are good choices. Make sure it’s clean.
- Drainage Layer: Small stones or gravel go at the bottom. This helps extra water drain away from the plant roots. It stops roots from rotting.
- Activated Charcoal: A thin layer of activated charcoal sits on top of the stones. It helps keep the terrarium fresh and filters out bad smells.
- Potting Mix: Use a special potting mix for succulents or cacti. This soil drains well. Regular garden soil holds too much moisture.
- Tools: Small gardening tools like spoons, tweezers, or chopsticks are helpful. They let you place plants and soil easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The health of your plants is key to a good terrarium.
- Good Quality Plants: Healthy plants have no signs of pests or diseases. Their leaves are green and firm. Avoid plants with yellowing leaves or wilting stems.
- Proper Drainage: A good drainage system prevents waterlogged soil. This is super important for preventing root rot.
- Right Amount of Water: Overwatering is a common mistake. It can kill your plants. Water only when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Appropriate Light: Too much direct sun can scorch some plants. Not enough light makes them weak. Find the sweet spot for your chosen plants.
User Experience and Use Cases
Open terrariums are fun to create and enjoy.
- Decorations: They add a touch of nature to any room. You can place them on shelves, tables, or windowsills.
- Stress Relief: Caring for a small garden can be relaxing. It’s a calming hobby.
- Educational Tool: They are great for teaching kids about plants and how they grow.
- Gift Idea: A beautiful, handmade terrarium makes a thoughtful gift.
Building an open terrarium is a rewarding project. With the right plants and a little care, your mini-garden will thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Open Terrarium Plants
Q: What are the best plants for an open terrarium?
A: Good choices include succulents, cacti, air plants, and certain small, drought-tolerant herbs like thyme or sedum. These plants like drier conditions and bright light.
Q: Do I need to water open terrarium plants often?
A: No, you don’t water them often. Open terrariums dry out faster than closed ones, but you should still only water when the soil is dry. Overwatering is bad.
Q: Can I put any plant in an open terrarium?
A: Not all plants are suitable. Plants that love very moist environments, like ferns or mosses that need high humidity, are better for closed terrariums. They will likely not do well in an open one.
Q: How much light do open terrarium plants need?
A: Most open terrarium plants, especially succulents and cacti, need bright, indirect sunlight. A spot near a sunny window is usually perfect.
Q: What kind of soil should I use for an open terrarium?
A: Use a well-draining potting mix, like one made for succulents or cacti. This soil prevents water from sitting around the roots.
Q: How do I prevent mold in my open terrarium?
A: Good airflow is key. Make sure your container has an opening. Also, avoid overwatering. A layer of activated charcoal in the soil mix can help too.
Q: Can I mix different types of plants in one open terrarium?
A: Yes, but make sure they have similar needs for light and water. Mixing a cactus with a plant that needs more moisture will cause problems.
Q: How big do plants get in an open terrarium?
A: Plants will grow, but usually slower in a terrarium setting. Choosing slow-growing varieties helps them stay a good size for a long time.
Q: What if my plants look unhealthy?
A: Check your watering schedule and light exposure. Yellow or mushy leaves often mean too much water. Crispy leaves might mean not enough water or too much direct sun.
Q: Are air plants good for open terrariums?
A: Yes, air plants are excellent for open terrariums. They don’t need soil and just need to be misted or soaked occasionally. They love good airflow.