5 Aquarium Plants You Should Try in Your Next Terrarium or Paludarium

Did you know that many of the aquarium plants we know and love to grow in our fish tanks can also be grown

emersed

Or above the water’s surface completely? Aquarium Co-Op carries many plants grown in water from the farms they are sourced. We start the process of changing them to their original form.

Submersed

or underwater form for you to enjoy in your fish tanks. Hobbyists are searching for emersed grown aquarium plants to use within their enclosed glass container ecosystems. These include planted terrariums of their pet frogs or amphibians and paludariums that combine both land and water environments. If you’re looking to add some more greenery to your humid terrarium or paludarium, look no further than this list of aquatic plants that can be grown out of water.

Bacopa Species

A paludarium setup is a great idea for moneywort (Bacopa Monnieri) or Bacopa Caroliniana. Although these plants will tolerate growing under water, if they are left to their own devices, the stems will eventually reach the surface of the water. Bacopa species can also thrive in a terrestrial environment provided they are given water frequently and don’t dry out too much. Because they do not require intense lighting or high humidity, they are very easy to grow. This is a great way for you to admire the delicate little flowers that bacopa plants.

Java Moss and Other Mosses

Java moss can grow outside of the aquarium, much like the moss covered trees and rocks in nature. Though it does require high humidity and pretty much constant moisture, Java moss can be a beautiful addition to a moist, terrestrial environment. It spreads and covers any surface it is attached to creating a soft, luxurious carpet. It loves to grow half in and half out of water as well, which can create a nice effect.

Brazilian Pennywort

Brazilian pennywort (or Hydrocotyle leucocephala) is fun to grow. This plant can be planted underwater and produces umbrella-shaped leaves that create small areas of shade in an aquarium. However, when the plant is grown out of water, this effect becomes even more dramatic. The leaves tend to be more dense and the stems more rigid. This creates a small bush of umbrella greenery for tiny creatures to shelter in. When emersed, Brazilian pennywort can produce tiny white flowers. This plant can grow very large and spread quickly if left to its own devices. If you keep it in a small container, make sure to trim it regularly.

Anubias

Anubias are often found in semi-aquatic habitats, with many individuals living in soil close to a stream or river. While it doesn’t like to be overly dry, species in the genus Anubias will very happily grow outside of our fish tanks in a terrestrial setting. They prefer humidity and plenty water, but otherwise they are very easy growers. Their growth rate in an aquatic environment is slow and steady, similar to the one they experience. Anubias and mosses can be grown together to create a stunning combination. The moss can also help keep the roots of anubias moist while they grow. What a charming pair!

Scarlet Temple

Alternanthera reineckii or scarlet temple are another great choices that add a splash of color to your garden. Although it is not outside in the literal sense of the word, this plant would be happy in a terrarium or similar humid environment. The terrestrial scarlet temple can thrive in water, provided it has access to water and high humidity. It is a beautiful accent or centerpiece plant that can brighten up any green background. It’s even common for scarlet temple plants to be grown out of water at plant farm facilities before they make their way to end users.

You might consider growing these plants in your aquarium, whether you are looking to create a new project or simply for fun. You may be surprised at the variety of plants you can create, and the different appearances that same plants can take when placed in different environments. The options are not exclusive to this list either – a great many of the aquatic plants we know and love can thrive even if they’re nowhere near a fish tank. You can find more information about aquarium plants in our collection of planted tank articles.