Top-Rated Succulents for Terrarium Cultivation: A Selection of 7 Favorites and Tips for Incorporation
Who doesn't love a good succulent setup?
Crafting some juicy specimens for your open terrarium can be tricky, but worry not, because we've got the scoop on the best plants for that dreamy container!
In an ideal world, succulents and terrariums would make a power couple. However, don't be deceived – a true terrarium, by scientific standards, is a sealed ecosystem designed to mimic tropical conditions, which canNOT be ideal for our favorite succulent pals. So, how do you get the best of both worlds? SIMPLE, opt for an open or partially covered terrarium instead. This way, humidity and moisture won't get trapped in the container, ensuring your succulents will thrive!
There are some succulent-ish options out there for a closed terrarium, but let's dive into our top picks to make your succulent-filled terrarium fantasies a reality!
1 | Echeveria
Echeverias are an astonishingly beautiful genus of fleshy-leaved succulents. Their vibrant colors – from pastel shades to bold tones – will make your heart swoon. This genus boasts numerous species with distinct rosettes tailored to every taste.
👉 Check out Echeverias on Etsy
2 | Sedum morganianum 'Burrito' (Burro's Tail/Donkey's Tail)
Sedum 'Burrito' is an adorable, chunky succulent that sports a string-like look, resembling a playful donkey's tail. Being a terrarium favorite, it effortlessly adds contrast and complexity to the mix!
👉 Shop Sedum 'Burrito' on Etsy
And if the Burro's Tail hasn't won you over, why not explore other options in the Sedum family? Consider the intriguing pink-hued 'Jelly Bean' Sedum, for example.
3 | Crassula ovata 'Minima' (Jade Plant)
The classy Jade Plant will undoubtedly put a touch of elegance into your terrarium. These slow-growing trees are resilient dwellers, ready to bring structure to your succulent setup.
👉 Pick up a Jade Plant Minima on Etsy
4 | Haworthia
Like punk rockers of the succulent world, Haworthias boast an edgy look with unique, spiky leaves and numerous stripes and spots. With over 100 species to choose from, there's bound to be one you love. Discover the stunning Zebra Haworthia or the other-worldly, fleshy Cooperi Haworthia.
👉 Shop Haworthias on Etsy
5 | Kalanchoe tomentosa (Panda Plant/Chocolate Soldier)
The soft, velvety fur of the Panda Plant might well be one of the most inviting things about open terrariums – you can reach in and touch it whenever you fancy! This irresistible succulent presents delightfully fuzzy pale turquoise leaves with chocolate-brown tips. Plus, it's a SLOW grower, making your life easy!
👉 Bag a Kalanchoe tomentosa on Etsy
If you're in the mood for something more fruity than chocolate, why not try the vibrant Kalanchoe thyrsiflora?
6 | Curio rowleyanus (String of Pearls)
Who wouldn't go gaga over a vine that PRETTY MUCH looks like pearls? The String of Pearls is a fabulously luxurious succulent vine, with vivid green bead-shaped leaves attached to a central string. With an open terrarium, you can place it wherever you see fit, without being confined by the container.
👉 Get a String of Pearls on Etsy
7 | Sempervivum (Hens and Chicks/Houseleek)
These, um, comic-sounding succulents are vibrant, fleshy, and colorful – you can't miss them! Most often, they're identifiable by the contrasting leaf tips. The typical Houseleek is the common Sempervivum tectorum, but there are many more to explore.
👉 Snag Sempervivums on Etsy
What About Closed Terrariums?
If you're hankering for a way to blend succulents and closed terrariums, there might STILL be a way!
Step forward – scene stealer – the Peperomia!
While not traditionally considered succulents, Peperomia's plump leaves demand attention. Some varieties may tolerate higher humidity levels, making them ideal terrarium buddies!
Ready for more info? Dive into our plant profiles on Peperomia tetraphylla 'Hope', Peperomia prostrata, and Peperomia caperata 'Rosso'.
To create a visually striking and thriving home-and-garden setup, opt for an open or partially covered terrarium. This lifestyle choice allows for a dreamy collection of succulents, such as Echeverias, Sedum 'Burrito', Jade Plant Minima, Haworthias, Kalanchoe tomentosa, Curio rowleyanus, Sempervivum, and even some Peperomia, which can still thrive in closed terrarium environments with careful consideration.
