Whether you’re interested in creating your own planted paradise, or you’re on the hunt for new and exciting, exotic flora for your fauna; This carefully selected list will guide you in the right direction! We’ll break it down by giving you a simplified version of Plant classification. We’ll go through some pros, and some cons, and even what you need for everything talked about here today and we’ll leave the decision making up to you!
We’ll start simple with a fan favorite. Moss. No one knows they need it until they see it, in a vivarium. Resilient, easy upkeep and one of the most incredible finishing touches every enclosure needs.
#1: New Zealand Sphagnum Moss
Sphagnum flexuosum or peat moss as it’s commonly called is nearly perfect. It contains a phenolic compound, which is commonly produced in response to ecological difficulties such as “pathogen and insect attack, UV radiation and wounding”. Meaning they are hardier than other species in comparison. Sphagnum Moss is easily accessible and can easily be planted for a little bit of an Oceanic accent. My only problem with this is Moss is the fact that it is commonly sold dried and browned.
#2: Sheet Moss
Hypnum cupressiforme goes by many names, but our name for it in the hobby is Sheet Moss. This species is surprisingly found in every continent, with the exception of Antarctica. It prefers an acidic PH, and is fairly tolerant of contaminants. Mood Moss is also a moisture loving plant but be very careful not to overwater this species, or you can expect your hard work go from green to rotted and brown in no time. Overall Sheet Moss is spectacular! It grows and it does it fast, creating dense bushels of lichen!
#3: Mood Moss
Dicranum scoparium is just recently making an appearance in the market and for good reason. With its distinctive feature of all of its leaves facing and leaning to one side it is the ultimate, decorative touch. It can be over watered but had also been known to live in climates dry as bone as well as wet as a swamp. This is a must have for some of the more experience vivarium keepers for sure!
#4: Neoregelia Donger
Bromeliads. Everyone loves them, and not enough people have them. But before we get in to the fun stuff I’d like to preface by saying every single plant on this part of our list must be mounted on a surface like cork board, or foam with either 100% silicone or natural twice. If planted directly into soil you can expect to see rot. These are a little more challenging to keep thriving like I mentioned but for those of you up to the task, read on.
One of my favorites from this genus and I think you’ll see why. Donger is well suited for a medium sized or larger enclosure, as it reaches up to 8” across. If you’re looking to breed your frogs this is a must have, as this plant is capable of holding great amounts of water for rearing, but should be drained at least once a week to prevent rot. With its beautiful pink tips and awesome practicality it’s a must in my terrariums.
#5: Ficus Pumilia
Vines are vastly underrated. The way they travel throughout your personal rainforest, is incredible and quite a site when they fully grow.
My first choice over any species would be Ficus Pumilia, or Creeping fig. With its simplistic leaves and incredible growth rate Creeping Fig is known for being a wall climber. Originating in north east Asia, this plant would be well acclimated to moist, and humid conditions!
#6: Saxifraga stolonifera
To add some color to your vine collection, strawberry Begonia, is the way to go. With its bright red stems and alien green leaves, this plant is sure to not disappoint. Oddly enough strawberry Begonia, isn’t actually a begonia at all. It really belongs to the Saxifragaceae family, meaning you can expect some flowering for an added touch of beauty.
