Whether you are trying to enliven up your modern living room or adding some greenery into your apartment that receives light from one direction, low light terrarium plants can work well for you. Many terrarium plants prefer lower light conditions; you just have to know which ones can really thrive in such a habitat and not just for short periods. Take a look at some of your best options for low light tolerant plants.
1. Rhipsalis species
The Rhipsalis species is a type of cactus that is commonly grown in household terrariums. They are not the typical cacti in terms of appearance and growth, for they usually hang and have spines in their vain. They are also called chain or mistletoe cactus for they are distinguished by their branched, interwoven thin shoots. They have about 35 species, with epiphytic growth as the most extensive genus. They are an ideal low light terrarium plant for they prefer a partially shaded location. The only thing they require is proper watering, which should not be too wet or dry. They do not like bright, direct sun.
2. Hatiora salicornioides
Also known as“Drunkard’s bones,” this unique houseplant is also best for low light terrariums. This decorative epiphytic cactus originated from South America and grows yellow flowers on the tips and loves temperatures of 72-degrees Fahrenheit. Its distinct foliage makes it an interesting addition to a terrarium. It is easy to grow but is best to have it indoors. It likes regular room temperature and indirect light and is best kept on a covered porch. Before watering, allow the soil to dry out slightly.
3. Haworthia species
The Haworthia species are considered super succulents for small spaces for they are small and easy to grow. Their succulent leaves vary depending on the species; they can be green, red, or brownish-black. They can also be thick and fat or thin and bristly. Some are marked with lines or dots while others are plain. They are ideally grown indoors for they love modest, low lighting conditions and temperatures ranging from 75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Gasteria species
The Gasteria species are aloe-like succulents that are commonly called ox-tongue because of their roughly-textured leaves. Depending on the species, the leaves are also marked with distinct colors and patterns and curved flowers. They originate from South Africa, where they grow in lightly shaded locations that result in them tolerating lower light conditions compared with other succulents, making them ideal indoor houseplants. The slow-growing plant does not like direct sunlight and water falling on the leaves.
5. Philodendron species
The Philodendron species are native to tropical America that have adapted to low light levels of rainforests, the reason why they are popular potted houseplants. Their foliage is typically green but could also be red, coppery, or purplish while the leaves vary considerably in shape, size, and texture. Philodendrons come in a wide range of types, but the most common ones are the Heartleaf, Red Leaf, Elephant Ear, and Moonlight. Place it under a shade and do not let it be completely dry.
6. Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’
The Philodendron ‘Brasil’ is a Heartleaf Philodendron with leaves that look like they are painted with yellow and green strokes on the deep green foliage. It is very easy to grow and can thrive in various light conditions. It prefers indirect, low to bright light and 1 to 2 inches of water when it dries out.
7. Fittonia ‘Nerve plant’
The Fittonia ‘Nerve plant’ originated from Peru and has striking, olive-green foliage. It is a popular houseplant that goes very well in terrariums, dish gardens, and hanging baskets. Since it came from a tropical setting, the nerve plant thrives in a highly humid environment. It needs well-drained soil, and moderate, room temperature water. It prefers bright, indirect light. It will thrive in a terrarium because it loves humidity and does not need to be watered often.
8. Sansevieria ‘Snake plant’ (compact varieties)
Snake plants are ideal houseplants for beginners because they are robust and easy to care for. The small varieties grow a maximum of one foot and are perfect for small spaces in your home or office as wonderful ornamental plants. Feel free to grow them in small pots, dish gardens, and terrariums with other small succulents.
9. Cryptanthus
Also called ‘Earth Stars,’ these attractive bromeliads are known for their rosette-shaped foliage and low growth which makes them excellent ornate plants. They are native to Brazil and have over a thousand types. When mature, they grow to about 3 inches to 3 feet. They like bright, indirect light and thrive in humid environments. They also grow best at room temperature with fertilization. Like terrestrial plants, they grow in soil medium rather than mounted to a piece of bark. Make sure they are moist for they thrive in tropical conditions but do not let them rest in standing water.
10. Hemionitis arifolia / Heart Fern
The heart fern is a type of fern that suits enclosures, making it a common houseplant. Its original habitat is moist and tropical, and it was used for medicinal purposes in some parts of Asia. It is called such because of the leaves’ shape. It does not resemble a typical fern in terms of appearance, and also needs more attention and care. It needs indirect sunlight and plenty of shade. Its soil should be damp, preferring a loose mixture of substrate low in acidity if planted directly in the soil.
Final Thoughts
Terrariums are taking households by storm, and it’s easy to see why. They are like little gardens that you can style to your green thumb’s content. If you are bothered that your terrarium is not getting enough light since it is indoors, there are plenty of choices for low light terrarium plants. The important thing to remember when selecting plants is to ensure that you combine plants with similar light and water requirements. By doing so, you will be able to create an almost maintenance-free terrarium.