Best Plants for Succulent Terrariums

Succulent terrariums are a stylish and easy way to bring greenery into your home. Even if you don’t have a green thumb succulents are pretty tough plants. These miniature gardens are perfect for small spaces, require minimal care, and look amazing as living décor.

To make your succulent terrarium thrive, choosing the right plants is crucial. Here’s our list of plants that are great in succulent terrariums!

Best Plants for a Succulent Terrarium

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1. Echeveria

Echeverias are among the most popular succulents for terrariums, thanks to their rosette-shaped leaves that come in a variety of colors. These compact succulents are easy to care for and require plenty of bright, indirect sunlight.

2. Haworthia

Haworthias are small, hardy succulents that thrive in terrariums. Varieties like Haworthia fasciata (zebra plant) have striking white stripes on dark green leaves, adding texture and visual interest to your mini landscape. They prefer well-drained soil and bright, filtered light.

3. Sedum (Stonecrop)

Sedums are a diverse group of succulents that work wonderfully in terrariums. Low-growing varieties like Sedum rubrotinctum (jelly bean plant) or Sedum morganianum (burro’s tail) offer interesting shapes and colors. They thrive in well-drained soil and love bright light.

4. Crassula

Crassula succulents, like the popular Crassula ovata (jade plant) or Crassula perforata (string of buttons), are fantastic additions to a succulent terrarium. Their thick, water-storing leaves make them low-maintenance, and they come in various sizes and shapes.

5. Sempervivum (Hens and Chicks)

Sempervivums, also known as hens and chicks, are charming, hardy succulents that form rosettes. They come in a range of colors, from green to deep burgundy, and work well as focal points in a terrarium. These succulents love dry environments and bright light.

6. Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe varieties like Kalanchoe tomentosa (panda plant) or Kalanchoe blossfeldiana (flaming Katy) add unique textures and colors to a terrarium. The panda plant, with its fuzzy, silvery leaves and brown edges, provides a lovely contrast to other smooth-leaved succulents.

7. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is not only a useful plant with medicinal properties but also a beautiful succulent for terrariums. Miniature aloe varieties are perfect for small glass containers and need bright light and well-drained soil.

8. Graptopetalum

Graptopetalum, also known as ghost plant, is an easy-to-grow succulent with delicate rosettes of pale, blue-gray leaves that sometimes blush pink under stress. This plant adds a touch of elegance to any succulent terrarium.

9. Lithops (Living Stones)

Lithops are unique succulents that look like small stones, making them a fun and eye-catching addition to your terrarium. These “living stones” are drought-tolerant and thrive in well-drained soil and plenty of light.

10. Gasteria

Gasteria succulents are known for their thick, tongue-shaped leaves that often have bumpy textures or white spots. They are well-suited for succulent terrariums and prefer filtered light and dry conditions.

Learn more about Terrariums!

• How to Create a Closed Terrarium
• Best tools for building Terrariums
• Best Plants for Closed Terrariums

How to Create a Succulent Terrarium

To make your succulent terrarium thrive, follow these steps:

• Choose the Right Container: Use a container with an open top to ensure proper air circulation and prevent excess moisture buildup. Succulents prefer dry conditions, so avoid closed terrariums that trap humidity.
• Create a Drainage Layer: Since terrariums usually lack drainage holes, add a layer of small pebbles or gravel at the bottom of the container. Top this with a layer of activated charcoal to keep the soil fresh and prevent odors.
• Use Well-Draining Soil: Succulents need soil that drains well to avoid root rot. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix, or make your own by combining regular potting soil with sand or perlite.
• Plant Carefully: Arrange your succulents in the soil, leaving enough space between each plant for growth. Be creative with the design, combining plants of different colors, shapes, and sizes.
• Add Decorative Elements: Enhance your terrarium with decorative rocks, sand, or miniature figurines. These elements add a personal touch and complete the look of your mini garden.
• Water Sparingly: Succulents are drought-tolerant and need very little water. Water your terrarium only when the soil is completely dry, and be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
• Provide Adequate Light: Place your terrarium in a spot that receives bright, indirect light. If you notice your succulents stretching or leaning, they may need more light.

Succulent terrariums are not only easy to care for but also add a touch of greenery and style to any space. With the right plants and setup, you can enjoy a thriving mini desert landscape that requires minimal maintenance.

Happy planting!

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