Between water and land – plants for transition zones.

Marsh and aquarium plants play a special role in planted terrariums. Many of these species are well-known from aquariums, but in nature they do not grow permanently completely underwater, but rather in floodplains, along streams, or in periodically flooded areas.

They are adapted to changing conditions:

• temporarily flooded
• persistently high humidity
• moist, but oxygen-rich locations
• Flow or splash water areas

These very properties make them ideal for paludariums, streams, waterfalls and moist marginal areas in the terrarium.

Typical genera in this category

Our product range includes tried and tested varieties such as:

• Microsorum pteropus (Java fern)
• Bucephalandra species
• Anubias species
• Hygrophila species
• Bolbitis heudelotii

These plants are robust, structurally strong, and ideally suited for:

• Shore areas
• damp stone areas
• Hardscape along watercourses
• areas permanently exposed to splashing water

Aquarium mosses are listed separately and are therefore not part of this category.

Ideal locations in the terrarium

Marsh and aquarium plants are particularly suitable for areas where classic tropical plants have difficulties:

• right by the waterfall
• along a stream
• in the transition between water and land
• in permanently damp cracks and joints

They tolerate:

• high humidity
• permanently moist roots
• temporary flooding

However, it is also important to note here:

No permanently standing, oxygen-depleted waterlogging in the substrate.

Proper cultivation

Many of these plants – such as Microsorum, Anubias or Bucephalandra – grow by forming rhizomes.

This means:

• The rhizome must not be completely buried.
• Ideally, it should be attached to stones or roots.
• They grow much healthier when tied on or glued on.

Especially in paludariums, this allows for the creation of natural transitions between hardscape and vegetation.

Light & Care

Most species:

• They cope well with moderate light.
• do not require extreme lighting intensity
• They grow stably under consistently high humidity.

Their adaptation to flood zones makes them extremely robust – ideal for permanently damp terrarium areas.

Perfect for paludariums & frog terrariums

These plants perform important functions in paludariums and water-filled tropical terrariums:

• Stabilization of humid zones
• Greening of stones & roots
• Prevention of bare waterfall areas
• Structure for animals

Especially in combination with bromeliads, climbing plants and ground cover, a harmonious, three-dimensional ecosystem is created.

Specialists instead of just aquarium products

Although many of these species are known from aquariums, the focus here is on forms that are particularly well suited for:

• Emersed culture
• persistently high humidity
• tropical terrarium conditions

suitable.

Not every classic aquarium plant is automatically suitable for terrariums – we specifically select suitable species.

Individual consulting

Whether a small paludarium or a large waterfall terrarium – the selection of suitable plants depends on:

• water content
• flow
• Lighting
• Animal stock

If you are unsure which marsh or aquarium plants are ideal for your project, we would be happy to advise you individually. Simply contact us. Contact with us.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can these plants survive permanently underwater?

Many species can tolerate temporary flooding, but in the long term grow more stably emersed, i.e. above water, in high humidity.

Do Anubias and Microsorum need to be planted?

No. The rhizome should not be buried. It is better to tie it to stones or roots.

Are these plants suitable for paludariums?

Yes, they are ideal for transitional areas between water and land.

Do they need a lot of light?

No. Moderate light is usually sufficient.

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