10 Best Succulents for Terrariums: Create Your Mini Oasis
Hey there! 🌵 I’ve always loved succulents because they’re so easy to care for and look amazing.
If you’re like me and enjoy having a little green in your home, then putting succulents in a terrarium is a great idea.
It’s a fun way to showcase these cute plants while adding a bit of charm to any room.
Finding the best succulents for terrariums can make all the difference in creating a beautiful and thriving mini-garden.
Not all succulents are suited for the enclosed space of a terrarium, so picking the right ones is key.
Let’s dive into discovering which succulents will make your terrarium not only survive but truly thrive! 😊
Please note: Simplify Plants is reader-supported. Some links in the post are affiliate links and I get a commission from purchases made through links in the post.
1) Echeveria ‘Lola’

Echeveria ‘Lola’ is one of my absolute faves for terrariums. 🌿 Its beautiful rosette shape makes it a standout in any glass garden.
The leaves are a blend of pretty pastel colors, from silvery green to pinkish or purple hues.
This succulent is super easy to care for, which is perfect for those new to terrarium gardening.
It thrives in bright, indirect light and doesn’t need too much water.
Just be sure not to overwater it; keeping the soil slightly dry is best.
‘Lola’ stays compact, growing to about 6 inches tall. This makes it a great fit for smaller terrariums.
It’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance without taking over the whole space.
One thing I love about ‘Lola’ is its resilience.
It can handle a bit of neglect, so if you forget to water it once in a while, it won’t hold a grudge. 😉
Echeveria ‘Lola’ is really an eye-catcher and can be a lovely conversation starter.
Its soft colors and unique appearance give my terrarium a special charm.
It’s like having a mini piece of artwork inside my little glass world.
If you’ve never tried growing succulents in a terrarium before, ‘Lola’ is a great plant to start with.
It’s easy to manage and brings a fresh, vibrant look that’s hard to beat.
Give it a try and see how it enhances your indoor garden! 🌱
2) Haworthia cooperi

I just love Haworthia cooperi! 🌿 This succulent is perfect for terrariums because of its small size and unique look.
The leaves are a pretty green and have a see-through, jelly-like appearance. They grow in thick clusters, making them look like little green gems.
Caring for these is super easy.
They don’t need much water and thrive in bright, indirect light. Plus, they rarely outgrow their space, so they’re great for small terrariums.
I’ve noticed that they can handle a bit of neglect, which makes them ideal for beginners like me.
Even if I forget to water them sometimes, they stay happy and healthy. 💧
For optimal growth, I make sure to use well-draining soil. Good drainage is important to prevent root rot.
Whenever I look at my Haworthia cooperi, I feel like I have a tiny oasis right on my desk.
It’s a joy to have around, and it adds charm to any space. 🌸
3) Sedum morganianum (Burro’s Tail)

I love Sedum morganianum, also known as Burro’s Tail. It’s one of the coolest succulents for terrariums. 🌵
Its long, trailing stems are packed with plump, green leaves that look almost like a donkey’s tail.
This plant is perfect for hanging terrariums, where its unique shape and texture can really shine.
Burro’s Tail is pretty easy to care for.
It doesn’t need a lot of water, which is great because I don’t always remember to water mine. 😅
Just a little drink every few weeks is enough. Bright, indirect sunlight helps it stay healthy and strong, and it thrives in room temperatures.
It can be a bit fragile, so I try to handle it gently. The leaves can fall off if I’m not careful.
Propagation is simple, though.
If a leaf drops, I just place it on soil and, after some time, it starts growing a new plant. How cool is that? 🌿
As a bonus, Burro’s Tail can sometimes produce small, pink flowers that are just adorable.
It doesn’t always happen, but when it does, it’s a joy to see.
This plant gets along well with others and looks amazing in a terrarium with multiple succulents.
This is definitely one of my favorite picks for adding natural beauty to any space!
4) Crassula ovata (Jade Plant)

I love the Jade Plant for its thick, shiny leaves! It looks like a miniature tree and brings a touch of elegance to any space.
Its dark green color is stunning, especially in a glass terrarium. 🌿
Caring for a Jade Plant is pretty easy.
It doesn’t need much water, so I just let the soil dry out between waterings.
Be careful not to overwater—it really doesn’t like sitting in soggy soil.
The Jade Plant thrives in bright light.
I make sure to place it near a sunny window. It does fine in indirect light too but loves some direct sun for a vibrant look. ☀️
What’s nice about this plant is its slow growth.
I don’t have to worry about it outgrowing my terrarium quickly. It stays small, making it perfect for tight spots.
I’ve noticed that sometimes my Jade Plant drops its leaves.
This usually happens when it gets too little light or too much water.
Adjusting care helps the plant stay healthy and keep those pretty leaves intact.
If you’re into Feng Shui, having a Jade Plant is a good idea.
It’s said to bring good luck and prosperity. Having one on my desk feels special! 🎉
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant with charm, the Jade Plant is a great pick.
Its ease of care and beautiful appearance make it a favorite in my terrarium collection. 🌱
5) Lithops (Living Stones)

I love Lithops, also known as Living Stones. These cool succulents resemble small, smooth rocks. 🌿
They’re perfect for terrariums because they stay small and add a unique look.
Lithops come in many colors and patterns. Some mimic pebbles, while others even look like marbles! This makes them a fun choice for creative terrarium designs.
They’re low-maintenance plants that thrive in bright light.
Overwatering is a common mistake, so it’s best to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Too much water can make them rot, so keeping an eye on them is key.
One fascinating thing about Lithops is how they grow.
They can split open to reveal new leaves. 🌱 This gives them a fresh look each year, adding excitement to any plant collection.
Despite their small size, they are long-lasting with the right care.
This makes them a favorite among succulent lovers like me.
Adding some sand or small rocks around them can make them stand out even more.
They’re like tiny jewels in a terrarium. 💎
If you’re looking to spice up your terrarium with something different, Lithops are a great choice!
They bring a natural, rocky vibe that is both interesting and beautiful.
6) Kalanchoe tomentosa (Panda Plant)

I just adore the Kalanchoe tomentosa, also known as the Panda Plant! 🌿
Its fuzzy leaves with silvery-green tones and tiny dark spots at the edges give it a unique look. These special features make it stand out in any terrarium.
The Panda Plant is super easy to care for.
It doesn’t need much water and thrives with just a bit of light. I love how it can go a little while without attention, which is perfect for a busy lifestyle.
I place mine in a spot with indirect sunlight so it gets enough light without too much heat. A north-facing window works well for this.
It’s important not to overwater it. Let the soil dry out between waterings to keep the roots healthy.
The Panda Plant’s soft texture is not just for looks.
These characteristics help it to conserve moisture. The fuzzy leaves make it extra special and add a cozy feel to the terrarium setup.
The Panda Plant can grow quite tall, reaching up to 18 inches.
I trim it occasionally to keep its shape neat and compact. This way, it fits perfectly in any size terrarium.
I enjoy how easy it is to propagate.
Just cut a healthy leaf, let it dry for a day, and then plant it in soil.
In time, new roots will grow, and you’ll have a new Panda Plant. 🌿
7) Aloe vera

Aloe vera is one of my favorite succulents for terrariums!
This awesome plant is not only easy to care for, but it also brings a touch of green beauty to any space. 🌿
Aloe vera is well-known for its spiky leaves and healing properties. Who wouldn’t want a plant that’s both pretty and practical?
I love how Aloe vera thrives with little attention.
It really is the perfect fit for a terrarium. Just a bit of bright, indirect sunlight keeps it happy.
It doesn’t need much water either, which makes it super easy to take care of.
Remember, a little water goes a long way!
Aloe vera is also great for small spaces.
It doesn’t grow too quickly, so it won’t take over the whole terrarium.
This makes it ideal for those tiny glass containers I adore. Plus, its unique look is sure to grab attention in any room.
One cool thing about Aloe vera is its gel. It’s not just a pretty face! 🪴
I can easily snip a leaf and use the gel inside to soothe cuts or sunburns. It’s like having a mini first-aid kit right in my garden.
Adding Aloe vera to my terrarium connects me to nature while offering helpful benefits.
With so many cool features, this plant is hard to pass up.
If you’re looking for an easy, stylish plant for a terrarium, Aloe vera is a perfect choice.
8) Sempervivum (Hens and Chicks)
I love Sempervivum, also known as Hens and Chicks. They’re such cute little plants! 🌿
They got their name because the mother plant is the “hen,” and it grows little “chicks” around it. These “chicks” make them perfect for terrariums!
One of the best things about Sempervivum is how easy they are to care for.
They don’t need much water and can handle lots of sunlight. Just place them where they can soak up some rays, and you’re good to go! ☀️
These succulents are super hardy.
They can survive in tough conditions, which makes them great for beginners.
Even if you sometimes forget to water them, they’ll still thrive. Sempervivum doesn’t need a lot of attention to stay happy.
I find them so charming with their rosette shapes and lovely colors.
They come in shades of green, blue, purple, and even red.
Every time I look at them, they bring a smile to my face. 😊
It’s like having a mini garden of jewels!
One fun thing about Sempervivum is that you can propagate them easily.
Just take one of the “chicks” and place it in a new spot.
Before you know it, you’ll have a whole family of Hens and Chicks! 🌱
Adding these to a terrarium brings both style and simplicity.
I think they are perfect for anyone looking to start a succulent collection.
Give them a try, and enjoy their beauty in your home!
9) Adromischus cristatus (Crinkle-Leaf Plant) 🌿

I just love the Adromischus cristatus, also known as the Crinkle-Leaf Plant. It’s one of my favorite picks for a terrarium because of its unique look.
The leaves have a wavy edge that almost looks like a crinkled chip!
This plant is not only cute but also super easy to care for. It’s perfect for anyone, even if you’re just starting with plants.
The Crinkle-Leaf Plant prefers bright, indirect light. I always make sure mine gets enough sun without being in direct, harsh rays that can burn its delicate leaves. ☀️
Watering is a breeze. I just give it a drink when the soil is dry.
Too much water can be harmful, so I make sure the soil has dried out before watering again. This keeps the roots healthy and prevents rot.
What’s really cool about the Adromischus cristatus is how it can handle dry conditions.
Its leaves store water, making it a resilient plant for a terrarium. I find it very forgiving if I forget to water it for a while. 🌵
Adding this plant to my terrarium brings in a touch of elegance with its green and gray tones. It pairs well with other succulents and adds interesting texture.
I’ve noticed it grows slowly but steadily, which helps maintain the look of my terrarium for a long time without needing much pruning.
So, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance and interesting plant, the Crinkle-Leaf Plant might be the one!
10) Graptopetalum paraguayense (Ghost Plant)

I love the Ghost Plant because of its unique look. Its leaves are thick and fleshy, with a lovely pale blue-gray color. Sometimes, they even have a pinkish tint! 🌿 This makes them stand out in any terrarium. They remind me of little rosettes and are so pretty!
The Ghost Plant is very easy to care for. It likes bright, indirect light. If it’s too sunny, the leaves might burn. A little morning sun or light from a window works great. Just watch out for harsh afternoon rays.
Watering is simple. I water my Ghost Plant only when the soil is dry. It doesn’t like to be soggy. In fact, it prefers to be on the dry side. Overwatering can cause the leaves to drop.
I find that this plant does well in a mixed terrarium. It pairs nicely with other succulents. They grow slowly, so there’s no need to worry about frequent repotting. Overall, it’s a low-maintenance addition to my collection. 🌱
One cool thing about Ghost Plants is their ability to change color.
If they get more sun, they turn a lovely pink or even a slight yellow. It’s like having a plant that shows you the seasons. Super fun and interesting, right?
Adding a Ghost Plant to your terrarium will surely draw attention. It’s not just a plant; it’s a conversation starter. Perfect for adding that extra little flair to your plant collection. 🪴
Benefits of Growing Succulents in Terrariums
Growing succulents in terrariums is a fantastic choice! 🪴 These beautiful plants require little space and are easy to care for, making them perfect for any home or office.
Minimal Space Requirement
Succulents are ideal for small areas. Since they don’t need much room, you can place them almost anywhere. Whether it’s on a desk or a windowsill, they thrive in little spaces. This makes them a top choice for those living in apartments or small homes.
Terrariums are visually appealing. They add a touch of green without cluttering your environment. You can choose different styles of containers to match your decor. It’s like having a mini garden right at your fingertips! 🌟
Low Maintenance
Succulents require little care. They don’t need frequent watering, just a light spray every now and then. This makes them perfect for busy individuals or beginners who are new to plant care.
They are quite resilient. These hardy plants adapt well to indoor climates and withstand a little neglect. If you travel often or simply forget to water, succulents won’t mind much. The less fuss, the better. 😊
Year-Round Enjoyment
Enjoy greenery all year long. Succulents stay vibrant even during winter months when other plants struggle. This steady burst of life and color brightens any space, regardless of the season.
Terrariums protect them from harsh weather. The glass containers create a little ecosystem, shielding succulents from extreme temperatures and drafts. You get to enjoy a bit of nature inside, making them perfect companions for any season!
With these benefits, it’s easy to see why succulents in terrariums are so popular. They fit well into our busy lives while adding a refreshing green touch to our spaces. 🌵💚
Essential Tips for Terrarium Success

Creating a thriving terrarium requires picking a suitable container, using the right soil and drainage, and ensuring the plants get enough light and water to grow. 🌵 Let’s dive into these tips to make your terrarium a beautiful success!
Choosing the Right Container
Picking the right container is like choosing a cozy home for your succulents. It needs enough space for growth while allowing air circulation. Glass containers are popular because they let in light and show off your plants. 🌿
Closed containers keep humidity high, which might not be ideal for succulents. They prefer open containers for better airflow.
Remember, the opening size affects the environment your plants need. An open-top container is a great choice for keeping moisture levels just right.
Choose a container with a wide opening and no lid. This setup ensures that the plants get enough air and do not stay too wet, which can lead to root rot. Always consider the balance between style and the specific needs of your plants.
Soil and Drainage Considerations
Good drainage is key for succulent health. In the terrarium, use a special cactus or succulent mix. This type of soil doesn’t hold too much water, which is important for keeping the roots healthy.
Adding a layer of small stones or pebbles at the bottom can also help with drainage.
Remember, succulents do not like to sit in water, so avoid regular potting soil which retains too much moisture.
Do not forget to add activated charcoal on top of the rock layer. This material fights odors and helps keep the terrarium fresh. Keeping the materials light and airy helps the roots breathe and thrive.
Light and Water Requirements
Succulents love sunlight, but too much can be harmful. Place your terrarium in a spot where it gets indirect light. A windowsill with filtered light or a place with bright, indirect sun is ideal. ☀️
Watering is all about balance. It’s better to water them sparingly.
Using a spray bottle, mist the soil lightly every couple of weeks.
Be careful not to overwater because too much moisture can lead to rot. 🌱
Check the soil moisture by touching it. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. Having this habit will ensure healthy and happy succulents in your terrarium.
Frequently Asked Questions
When it comes to succulents for terrariums, there are lots of options, from low-maintenance choices to ones that grow well in small spaces. I’ve collected answers to common questions you might have.
What are some low-maintenance succulents suitable for indoor terrariums?
I love Haworthia cooperi and Echeveria ‘Lola’. They’re easy to care for and look great in an indoor terrarium. These succulents don’t need much attention, which is perfect for my busy lifestyle. 🌵
How do you care for succulents in an outdoor terrarium setting?
For outdoor terrariums, I make sure the plants get enough sunlight and are protected from too much rain. Choosing a well-draining soil is key. This way, the succulents stay healthy and strong.
Which succulents are recommended for beginners creating their first terrarium?
I always suggest starting with Crassula ovata (Jade Plant) and Sedum morganianum (Burro’s Tail). They’re pretty resilient and forgiving if I make a mistake. Plus, they are super cute! 😊
Are there specific succulents that thrive in closed terrarium environments?
In a closed terrarium, Haworthia cooperi and Lithops (Living Stones) are my go-tos. They like the extra humidity and adapt well in small, contained spaces.
How do you properly plant succulents in a small terrarium space?
In small spaces, I use tiny tools to carefully plant the succulents. It’s important to leave enough room between plants for airflow and growth. This helps them thrive and look their best.
Can you include kalanchoe in a mixed-species terrarium, and if so, how?
Yes, I love adding Kalanchoe!
Keep them near succulents with similar water needs.
I make sure there’s enough room so all plants get their fair share of light and nutrients. 🪴
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some truly interesting info , well written and broadly speaking user friendly.