A terrarium is much more than a decorative mini-ecosystem. It is a living work of art that requires balancing aesthetics, care and the right choice of plants. While familiar species like ferns and moss often take center stage, there are numerous lesser-known orchid and houseplant genera that thrive surprisingly well in these moist, sheltered environments. Precisely because little has been written about these specific plants online, they present a great opportunity for those who want to share unique content or create a terrarium that is just a little different.
Below you will discover unusual plant genera that are not only visually appealing, but also practical and relatively rare. They come from the world of both orchids and houseplants, and each is perfect for your glass ecosystem.
Ornamental plants for a glass ecosystem
1. Aerangis - Elegant mini orchids
These African orchids have graceful, often white-colored flowers and a compact growth habit. Ideal for mounting on cork in a well-ventilated, moist terrarium.
2. Anoectochilus - The shimmering gems
These so-called jewel orchids have velvety leaves with striking gold or silver veins. They like moist air, diffused light and an airy substrate with moss.
3. Macodes petola - Lightning in leaf form.
Macodes petola gets its nickname from the electric veins in its leaves. This rare appearance requires constant humidity and a mix of sphagnum with aerial additions.
4. Ludisia discolor - The robust classic
Easier than other jewel orchids and can withstand some drier conditions. An ideal species for those just starting out in terrariums.
5. Schoenorchis - Miniature with impact
A tiny orchid with lots of character. Its compact size makes it perfect for nano terrariums or as a subtle accent in a larger arrangement.
6. Ceratostylis - The no-nonsense mini-orchid.
Grows steadily, requires little, and often flowers unexpectedly. Ideal for a natural-looking terrarium with epiphytic accents.
7. Marcgravia - The tropical climber
A little-known climber whose stacked leaves creep beautifully along back walls or branches. Likes moist air and indirect light.
8. Dischidia - The tropical air plant
Epiphytic and playful. Dischidia Loves moisture, warmth and is easily trained along wire or cork. Compact, airy and surprisingly versatile.
9. Ceratocentron fesselii - Rare eye-catcher.
One of the most unique terrarium orchids: this Filipino beauty blooms bright orange and requires high humidity and daily attention. For the enthusiast.
10. Pleurothallis - For the shady corner
With their delicate flowers and tolerance for lower light levels, these are Pleurothallis-species particularly suitable for closed terrariums that are not directly next to a window.
Houseplants that also do well in terrariums
In addition to orchids, there are a few surprisingly terrarium-friendly houseplant genera that are not often in the spotlight:
11. Cercestis - Tropical climber with character
An underrated Araceae genus with tropical appeal. The young leaves are heart-shaped and creep nicely along structures.
12. Marcgravia - For vertical lines
This creeper deserves a second mention thanks to its decorative growth habit. Grow it from the top down for a rainforest effect.
13. Cochliostema - A cross between bromeliad and jewel
With broad, glossy leaves and striking growth form, is Cochliostema ideal for creating a tropical accent in larger terrariums.
14. Amydrium - Subtly related to Monstera
Still rare in terrariums, this plant grows compactly and adds a special leaf texture to your ecosystem.
15. Hydnophytum - The mysterious ant plant
A plant with a thickened base that provides shelter for ants in the wild. In the terrarium, this root tuber creates a bizarre, almost otherworldly look.
Choose your plants not only by appearance, but also by their natural needs. A well-designed terrarium takes into account light, humidity, ventilation and room to grow. The genera above are not only suitable for a healthy ecosystem, but also ideal for those who want to stand out with unique species.
