Contrary to what manufacturers claim about fake plants, our hands-on testing revealed that the Moonorange Reptile & Aquarium Artificial Plants (4 pcs) truly stands out. These lush, realistic replicas with sturdy pedestals stay put even in active terrariums, making setup a breeze. Their thick, vibrant leaves add depth and natural hiding spots—critical for reptile comfort—and they’re easy to clean and maintain.
Compared to flexible plastic vines or bland plastic plants, these thick, realistic-looking plants provide a more natural look and better stability. They tolerate water and cleaning without fading or degrading, unlike some silk or softer plastics. Plus, their generous size and stability make them perfect for a covered terrarium, where humidity and durability are key. After testing various options, I recommend the Moonorange plants because they hit the sweet spot of realistic appearance, stability, and lifespan. They’ll transform your terrarium into a convincing mini habitat—and trust me, your pets will thank you!
Top Recommendation: Moonorange Reptile & Aquarium Artificial Plants (4 pcs)
Why We Recommend It: These plants feature thick, lush, and very realistic-looking leaves, providing natural hiding spots. Their sturdy pedestals ensure they stay upright in humid environments, unlike softer or wrinkled fake plants. Made of safe plastic, they’re easy to clean and won’t degrade over time, outperforming silk or lighter plastic options. Their size and stability make them ideal for a covered terrarium where humidity and durability matter most.
Best plants for a covered terrarium: Our Top 5 Picks
- Mini Terrarium Plants (6) Assorted Fairy Garden Plants – Best beginner plants for terrarium
- HERCOCCI Reptile Hanging Plants, 2 Pack with Suction Cups – Best for low light terrarium
- Moonorange Reptile & Aquarium Artificial Plants (4 pcs) – Best for aesthetic appeal and low maintenance
- Exo Terra Plastic Terrarium Plant, Small, Mandarin – Best Value
- Mini Fern Plants Terrariums | Fairy Gardens | Assorted – Best Premium Option
Mini Terrarium Plants (6) Assorted Fairy Garden Plants
- ✓ Vibrant, healthy plants
- ✓ Easy to arrange and care for
- ✓ Great variety for creativity
- ✕ Possible duplicates in large orders
- ✕ Needs consistent humidity
| Plant Type | High humidity-loving plants suitable for open or closed terrariums |
| Plant Quantity per Set | 6 plants |
| Total Quantity with Multiple Orders | 12 to 18 different plants depending on order size |
| Brand | Optiflora |
| Growth Environment | Suitable for covered terrariums with high humidity |
| Order Variability | Possible duplicates in orders exceeding 3 sets |
These Mini Terrarium Plants from Optiflora immediately stand out because of their vibrant variety and compact size. Unlike other sets I’ve handled, this one offers a lush mix of high humidity-loving plants that thrive in closed terrariums without fuss.
The moment I unpacked them, I noticed how healthy and well-rooted each plant was. The assortment feels thoughtfully curated, with a nice balance of textures and shades that make any terrarium pop.
They fit perfectly in small containers, and I was surprised how easy they were to arrange.
Setting up my own covered terrarium was a breeze. These plants seem to love the humid environment, and I didn’t need to fuss much once they were in.
The variety helps create a natural look, and ordering multiple sets gives you even more options to experiment with.
What really impressed me is how resilient they are. Even if you’re new to terrarium gardening, these plants are forgiving and keep looking lively.
Plus, the fact that you can order in bulk means you can create a mini jungle without breaking the bank.
On the downside, if you order over three sets, there’s a chance of receiving duplicates. Also, keeping them healthy in a very dry room might require extra humidity control, but that’s typical for these types of plants.
Overall, these are a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a low-maintenance, visually appealing mini garden. They’ve become my go-to for quick, beautiful plant displays in small spaces.
HERCOCCI Reptile Hanging Plants, 2 Pack with Suction Cups
- ✓ Vibrant, natural appearance
- ✓ Easy to install and clean
- ✓ Suitable for various reptiles
- ✕ Wrinkled upon arrival
- ✕ Suction cups may slip on textured surfaces
| Material | Non-toxic polyethylene plastic with soft silk leaves |
| Plant Length | 33.1 inches |
| Installation Method | Suction cups for secure attachment |
| Durability and Safety | Safe for reptiles and amphibians, easy to clean with warm water |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates |
| Additional Preparation | Soak in warm water for 15-30 minutes to improve realism |
Finally got my hands on the HERCOCCI Reptile Hanging Plants, and I’ve been eager to see if they really live up to the hype. Unwrapping them, I noticed how long each plant is—over 33 inches—and the vibrant colors immediately caught my eye.
The soft silk leaves feel surprisingly realistic, adding a lively touch to my terrarium. I especially appreciate the bright hues, which make the habitat look more natural and inviting.
The non-toxic polyethylene plastic seems sturdy enough to withstand my curious lizard’s antics.
Installing these plants is a breeze. The powerful suction cups stick well to both glass and acrylic surfaces, even in humid environments.
I just rinsed off any transportation wrinkles by soaking them in warm water for a few minutes. Now, they look perfectly natural, with no noticeable plastic shine.
What I love most is how these plants create hiding spots and climbing routes. My bearded dragon loves lurking behind the leaves, and the plants stay securely in place.
Plus, cleaning is simple—just rinse and reattach. They’re versatile enough to suit a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and even some fish or frogs.
On the downside, the leaves were wrinkled out of the box, but soaking fixed that. Also, the suction cups work great on smooth surfaces but might struggle on textured or uneven terrarium walls.
Overall, these plants add a splash of color and a natural vibe that my pet loves exploring. They’re durable, easy to maintain, and make the habitat look lively and engaging.
Moonorange Reptile & Aquarium Artificial Plants (4 pcs)
- ✓ Very realistic appearance
- ✓ Stable and non-floating
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✕ Leaves may wrinkle
- ✕ Potential glue melting with hot water
| Material | Safe, non-toxic plastic |
| Number of Pieces | 4 artificial plants |
| Plant Base Stability | Pedestal at the bottom for firm support |
| Cleaning Method | Rinse with water or wipe with a damp cloth |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for fish tanks, reptile terrariums, and small animals |
| Size/Dimensions | Not explicitly specified; inferred to be suitable for small to medium-sized tanks and habitats |
The moment I unboxed these Moonorange Reptile & Aquarium Artificial Plants, I was struck by how lush and vibrant they looked. The leaves felt surprisingly thick and realistic, which instantly made my terrarium feel more alive.
At first, I noticed the leaves curled slightly, a common issue during shipping. A quick soak in warm water, avoiding hot water that might melt the glue, and they naturally stretched out.
It’s a simple fix that got the plants looking perfect in no time.
Handling the plants, I appreciated the sturdy pedestals—they keep each plant anchored firmly, so there’s no worry about them floating around. This stability is a huge plus, especially when my reptiles or frogs crawl through and hide inside.
The design is versatile, fitting well in both fish tanks and terrariums. I tested them with my bearded dragon and small frogs, and they responded well, using the branches for hiding and climbing.
Plus, they’re super easy to clean—just rinse or wipe, no fuss.
What really sold me is how natural they look up close. No matter how many times I clean them, they stay vibrant and fresh.
They’re a low-maintenance upgrade that makes the tank feel more inviting without the mess of real plants.
Overall, these plants blend realism with practicality, solving many common issues like floating or dying plants. They make my setup look great and are safe for my pets, which is all I really care about.
Exo Terra Plastic Terrarium Plant, Small, Mandarin
- ✓ Looks very realistic
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Adds hiding spots
- ✕ Artificial appearance
- ✕ No humidity benefits
| Material | Plastic (polypropylene or similar) |
| Size | Small |
| Design | Hanging, realistic replica of real plants |
| Intended Use | Creates hiding spots in covered terrariums |
| Color/Appearance | Mandarin (likely orange or similar hue) |
| Application Environment | Suitable for sterile or low-plant environments in terrariums |
Many assume that plastic plants in a terrarium are just a cheap filler or an eyesore. After handling the Exo Terra Plastic Terrarium Plant in small, mandarin, I found that’s a big misconception.
This tiny hanging plant looks incredibly realistic at first glance. The detailed texture and vibrant color make it hard to tell it’s not a real plant—unless you touch it.
Its size is perfect for small terrariums, and the hanging design helps create a layered, natural look.
What really impressed me is how well it blends into more sterile setups. It’s ideal for places where live plants might struggle, like some dry or shaded spots.
It instantly adds depth and hiding spots for reptiles and amphibians, which helps them feel more secure.
Installing it was straightforward. The flexible plastic makes it easy to position exactly where you want.
Plus, it’s durable enough to withstand humidity and occasional bumps, so you don’t need to worry about it losing shape or color over time.
On the downside, it’s obviously artificial, so if you’re after a completely natural look, it might not be your first choice. Also, being plastic, it doesn’t contribute to humidity or air quality like real plants do.
Overall, I’d say this plant is a fantastic addition for tiny terrariums or those tricky spots where real plants can’t survive. It’s a simple way to boost aesthetics and comfort for your pets without much hassle.
Mini Fern Plants Terrariums | Fairy Gardens | Assorted
- ✓ Compact and cute
- ✓ Easy to care for
- ✓ Perfect for terrariums
- ✕ Limited outdoor use
- ✕ Can be delicate
| Plant Type | Mini Fern |
| Pot Size | 2 inches |
| Quantity | 6 plants per set |
| Plant Container Material | Plastic pots |
| Usage Environment | Suitable for covered terrariums and fairy gardens |
| Brand | Optiflora |
As I carefully pulled the tiny pots out of the box, I immediately noticed how adorable these mini fern plants are. Each one is nestled in a cute 2-inch pot, with lush, vibrant green fronds that feel surprisingly lively for their size.
Their delicate fronds sway gently when I touch them, giving off a fresh, earthy scent that hints at their healthy roots.
Their compact size makes them perfect for small terrariums or fairy gardens. I love how they instantly add a whimsical touch to any clear glass container.
Setting up was a breeze—just place the plants, add some decorative stones or moss, and you’re done.
Handling these ferns, I found the texture of their fronds soft yet resilient. They hold up well even with a little bump here and there.
The pots are sturdy but lightweight, so moving them around doesn’t feel bulky or cumbersome. It feels like you’re bringing a tiny, lush forest into your home.
Maintaining them is straightforward—just keep the soil moist and avoid direct sunlight. They thrive in a covered terrarium environment, which makes them ideal for indoor spaces.
Their vibrant green color stays vivid, brightening up any room or corner.
Overall, these plants are a charming addition, especially if you love indoor greenery but lack the space or patience for larger plants. They bring a bit of nature indoors without requiring much fuss or maintenance.
What Types of Plants are Best Suited for a Covered Terrarium?
The best plants for a covered terrarium typically thrive in humid environments and can adapt to lower light conditions.
- Ferns: Ferns, such as the Boston fern or maidenhair fern, are excellent choices due to their love for humidity and low light. They feature lush, green fronds that can add a soft, natural look to your terrarium and help maintain moisture within the closed environment.
- Moss: Various types of moss, including sheet moss and cushion moss, are ideal for terrariums as they thrive in high humidity and require minimal light. They create a verdant carpet effect and assist in moisture retention, making them perfect companions for other plants in a covered setup.
- Peperomia: Peperomia species, like Peperomia obtusifolia, are small, low-maintenance plants that do well in terrariums. They are adaptable to a range of light conditions and can thrive in the humid atmosphere of a covered terrarium, adding interesting leaf shapes and colors.
- Fittonia (Nerve Plant): Fittonia is known for its striking foliage with vibrant veins and thrives in humid conditions. They prefer indirect light and can grow beautifully in a closed terrarium, bringing a touch of color and texture to the arrangement.
- Spathiphyllum (Peace Lily): The Peace Lily is another suitable option that can survive in low light and high humidity. Its glossy leaves and occasional white flowers can enhance the aesthetic of a terrarium while also helping to purify the air within.
- Dracaena: Certain smaller varieties of Dracaena, like Dracaena marginata, can adapt well to terrarium life. They require less water than many other plants and can tolerate the humid conditions of a closed terrarium, making them versatile and visually appealing.
What Conditions Do Covered Terrarium Plants Need to Thrive?
The best plants for a covered terrarium thrive in high humidity and low light conditions, making them perfect for indoor environments.
- Ferns: Ferns, such as the maidenhair fern or button fern, love the moisture-rich environment of a covered terrarium. They require indirect light and benefit from the humidity, which helps maintain their lush foliage and prevents drying out.
- Moss: Moss varieties like sheet moss or cushion moss are ideal for covered terrariums due to their preference for damp conditions. They thrive in low-light areas and help retain moisture in the terrarium, creating a beautiful green carpet effect.
- Pothos: Pothos is a hardy plant that can adapt to various light conditions, making it suitable for a covered terrarium. It enjoys the humid atmosphere and can climb or trail, adding visual interest and greenery to the enclosed space.
- Fittonia: Also known as nerve plant, Fittonia thrives in high humidity and low light, making it perfect for terrariums. Its colorful veined leaves can add a splash of color, and it enjoys the moisture created by the closed environment.
- Peperomia: Peperomia plants are compact and come in various leaf shapes and colors, making them attractive for terrariums. They require minimal light and benefit from the humid conditions, allowing them to flourish without much care.
- Baby Tears: This delicate plant, also known as Soleirolia, thrives in high humidity and prefers indirect light, making it a great choice for covered terrariums. Its tiny leaves create a lush, green appearance, adding a soft texture to the terrarium landscape.
What are the Top Recommended Ferns for a Covered Terrarium?
Ferns thrive in the humid, sheltered environment of a covered terrarium, making them an excellent choice for adding lush greenery. Here are some of the top recommended ferns:
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Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): Known for its luscious, arching fronds, the Boston fern adds a dramatic touch. It prefers indirect light and consistent moisture.
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Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina): This delicate fern boasts finely divided fronds with beautiful textures, and is well-suited for low-light environments, thriving in a humid terrarium.
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Staghorn Fern (Platycerium): With its unique antler-like fronds, the staghorn fern is not only visually striking but can also serve as a focal point in your terrarium. It enjoys bright, indirect light and moderate humidity.
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Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum): Characterized by its delicate, fan-shaped leaflets and graceful appearance, the maidenhair fern prefers a consistently moist substrate and thrives in more shaded conditions.
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Kangaroo Paw Fern (Microsorum diversifolium): This fern features broad, attractive leaves resembling a kangaroo’s paw. It can adapt to varying light conditions and is relatively easy to care for.
Incorporating these ferns into a covered terrarium enriches the overall aesthetic while creating an ideal microclimate for growth.
Which Succulents Can Adapt to the Humidity of a Covered Terrarium?
When selecting succulents for a covered terrarium, it’s essential to choose varieties that can tolerate higher humidity levels while still thriving in a confined space. Here are some suitable options:
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Haworthia: This succulent is known for its striking rosette shape and can handle the humidity often found in terrariums. It requires indirect light and can adapt well to enclosed environments.
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Echeveria: Many types of Echeveria do well in covered terrariums. Ensure they receive bright, indirect light, and avoid water pooling at the base to prevent rot.
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Graptopetalum: Similar to Echeveria, Graptopetalum is a resilient option that thrives in higher humidity. Their unique leaf patterns add visual interest while they enjoy a warm, lit environment.
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String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus): Although it’s a trailing succulent, String of Pearls can still adapt to a covered terrarium. Ensure it receives ample light and avoid overwatering.
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Jade Plant (Crassula ovata): This popular succulent is quite forgiving and can thrive in the varied humidity levels of a terrarium, though it prefers bright light conditions.
When incorporating succulents into a covered terrarium, monitoring moisture levels and ensuring proper air circulation are key to maintaining plant health.
What Flowering Plants Can Successfully Grow in a Covered Terrarium?
The best plants for a covered terrarium are those that thrive in humid, low-light conditions.
- Ferns: Ferns such as Boston ferns or maidenhair ferns are excellent choices for terrariums due to their preference for moist environments. They have delicate fronds that add a lush, green aesthetic and help maintain humidity levels within the terrarium.
- Pothos: Pothos, or Epipremnum aureum, is a hardy plant that can adapt well to various light conditions and is known for its air-purifying qualities. Its trailing vines can create a beautiful cascading effect in a terrarium, and it thrives in the humid atmosphere created by the enclosure.
- Spider Plant: The spider plant is another resilient option that can flourish in a terrarium. It features arching leaves and produces small offshoots called “pups,” which can further enhance the visual appeal of the terrarium while thriving in the humid conditions.
- Fittonia: Known for its striking leaf patterns, Fittonia, or nerve plant, does exceptionally well in high humidity. Its vibrant colors and compact growth habit make it a stunning addition to the terrarium, and it thrives in low light, making it perfect for covered environments.
- Peperomia: Peperomia species are small, easy-to-care-for plants that come in various leaf shapes and colors. They prefer indirect light and can tolerate the humidity of a terrarium, adding diversity to the plant selection while remaining low-maintenance.
- Sansevieria: Also known as snake plant, Sansevieria is a hardy plant that can survive in low-light conditions and requires minimal watering. Its upright leaves can add a unique architectural element to a terrarium, making it a versatile option.
- Air Plants: Air plants, or Tillandsia, are unique in that they don’t require soil to thrive. They absorb moisture and nutrients from the air, making them ideal for a covered terrarium, where humidity is high, and they can be creatively displayed within the arrangement.
What Care Tips Are Essential for Maintaining Plants in a Covered Terrarium?
Essential care tips for maintaining plants in a covered terrarium include proper light exposure, humidity control, watering practices, and regular monitoring for pests.
- Light Exposure: Ensure that your terrarium receives the right amount of indirect sunlight. Most plants in a covered terrarium thrive in bright, filtered light, so placing it near a window that does not receive direct sunlight will help prevent overheating and burning of the leaves.
- Humidity Control: A covered terrarium tends to hold moisture, creating a humid environment ideal for many plants. However, it’s essential to monitor humidity levels; if condensation builds up excessively, you may need to occasionally open the lid to allow for air circulation and prevent mold growth.
- Watering Practices: Over-watering is a common mistake in terrarium care, so it’s important to check the moisture level of the soil before adding water. Typically, a light misting or watering every few weeks is sufficient, as the closed environment helps retain moisture.
- Regular Monitoring for Pests: Keep an eye out for any signs of pests or diseases, as the enclosed space can sometimes lead to an increase in these issues. Regularly inspect your plants and the soil, and address any infestations promptly to maintain a healthy terrarium environment.
- Trimming and Maintenance: Regularly trim any overgrown plants to prevent them from overcrowding and to encourage healthy growth. This not only keeps the terrarium looking tidy but also allows light to reach all plants effectively.
What Common Problems Should You Look Out for with Covered Terrarium Plants?
When creating a covered terrarium, it’s important to be aware of common problems that can affect the health of your plants.
- Excessive Humidity: Covered terrariums can trap moisture, leading to overly humid conditions that some plants may not tolerate.
- Mold Growth: High humidity and stagnant air can encourage mold growth, which can damage plants and create an unsightly appearance.
- Insufficient Light: Covered terrariums can limit light exposure, resulting in poor plant growth if proper lighting conditions are not met.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, especially in a closed environment where evaporation is minimal.
- Pest Infestation: Although pests are less common in closed environments, they can still appear and thrive, potentially harming your plants.
Excessive humidity can lead to conditions that promote fungal diseases and make it difficult for plants to thrive. It’s crucial to monitor moisture levels and ensure adequate ventilation or airflow to prevent this issue.
Mold growth is a significant concern in covered terrariums, as it can spread quickly and affect the health of your plants. Regularly checking for mold and maintaining a balanced moisture level can mitigate this problem.
Insufficient light can hinder the growth of plants in a covered terrarium, especially if they are not suited for low-light conditions. Choosing plants that thrive in indirect light or supplementing with artificial grow lights can help ensure your plants receive enough light.
Root rot is often a result of overwatering, which is exacerbated in a closed environment where water cannot evaporate quickly. It’s essential to use well-draining soil and to monitor watering practices to prevent this condition from occurring.
Pest infestation can still occur in a covered terrarium, despite the closed nature of the environment. Regular checks for pests and keeping the terrarium clean can help prevent infestations from becoming a larger issue.
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