Ferns are among the oldest plants on Earth – and it is precisely this archaic, almost primeval aesthetic that makes them indispensable structural plants in tropical terrariums. In the rainforests of Central and South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, they grow in a wide variety of ecological niches: on the ground, on rocks, on decaying wood, or high up in the treetops.
Tropical ferns are therefore a key element in creating natural habitats – especially for poison dart frogs. They provide cover, retain moisture, structure levels, and bring an authentic "rainforest atmosphere" to the terrarium.
Basically, a distinction is made between two growth forms, which require completely different cultivation conditions in the terrarium.
Terrestrial ferns grow in their natural habitat in humus-rich forest soil, often in consistently moist, shady areas.
Typical genera in our assortment:
Selaginella forms dense, carpet-like structures and is ideally suited for designing moist soil areas or transitions between hardscape and planting area.
Culture in the terrarium
Terrestrial ferns benefit from stable, humid climates – especially in bioactive rainforest terrariums.
Many tropical ferns do not grow in the ground, but epiphytically on trees or rocks. They form creeping or climbing rhizomes, along which leaves appear at regular intervals.
Typical epiphytic genera:
These species are ideally suited for tying onto:
They bring a vertical dynamic to the terrarium and utilize areas that would otherwise remain unplanted – similar to bromeliads or miniature orchids.
Culture in the terrarium
The rhizome should never be permanently submerged in wet substrate – waterlogging quickly leads to rot.
Some ferns grow naturally on the edges of bodies of water or in periodically flooded areas.
These include, for example:
These species are even suitable as marsh or aquarium plants and can be used in paludariums or permanently moist water features, as well as along streams. Their adaptability makes them particularly valuable for complex habitat designs.
We specifically stock tropical species suitable for terrariums from the following genera:
The focus is on compact, structurally stable species that can be cultivated in tropical conditions in the long term – not oversized indoor ferns, but specialized rainforest species with a real habitat connection.
Many of these species are not available in traditional garden centers because they require special growing conditions and are specifically selected for terrariums.
Light: Ferns prefer weak to medium, diffused light. Excessive LED lighting quickly leads to leaf burn.
Humidity: Ideally, the relative humidity should be 70–100%, especially for epiphytic species.
Water: Regular, gentle watering. Substrate moist, but never constantly wet.
Air conditioning: Tropically warm (22–28 °C), slight drop possible at night.
The exact placement always depends on the natural habitat of the respective species – and this is precisely the crucial difference between a "green decoration" and a functioning microhabitat. For the correct climate, please refer to the individual product descriptions for each species.
Are you unsure which ferns are suitable for your terrarium?
Whether it's a tall terrarium, paludarium or classic rainforest biotope – we are happy to help you with your selection.
The experts at Rana Terrarienbau will, upon request, put together a customized selection of plants – suitable for the inhabitants, technology and climate conditions.
Take happy Contact with us.
Especially small, tropical species from the genera Asplenium, Selaginella, Pyrrosia or Microgramma.
Yes. Epiphytic species such as Pyrrosia, Polypodium, Microgramma or Microsorum should even be preferably mounted.
Usually significantly less than bromeliads or orchids. Diffuse, not too intense LED light is ideal. Therefore, a location in the bottom or middle of the terrarium is suitable.
Yes, provided the humidity is stable and the air circulation is good. The most common problems are excessive light or stagnant water.
Feel free to send us a message via our Contact form – We will help you as soon as possible!
