Terrarium

A terrarium is a sealed or open glass container that houses a miniature garden of plants, mosses, stones, and sometimes small decorative elements, creating a self-contained living ecosystem for display in interior spaces. The concept was accidentally discovered by English botanist Nathaniel Bagshaw Ward in the 1840s, when he observed ferns growing inside a sealed glass jar. His invention, known as the Wardian case, revolutionized plant transport and became a popular decorative feature in Victorian parlors. The terrarium combines the appeal of living plants with the artistry of a contained landscape, making it a uniquely engaging decorative object. Modern terrariums come in a wide variety of forms, from geometric glass vessels holding succulents and air plants to elaborate enclosed ecosystems with tropical ferns, mosses, and miniature figurines. Open terrariums suit arid plants like succulents and cacti, while closed terrariums create humid environments ideal for tropical species. As biophilic design gains prominence, terrariums offer a low-maintenance way to bring living greenery into spaces where traditional potted plants might be impractical—desktops, bookshelves, bathroom counters, and dining table centerpieces. Their transparent construction adds visual lightness while showcasing the beauty of miniature plant life.