Phrases like 'Terrascaping', 'Bio-Active' and 'Living Terrariums' are becoming more and more common in the world of reptile and amphibian care, as keepers become more aware of the benefits of creating a living ecosystem for their pets.

Apart from the aesthetic appeal of a planted terrarium there are some very real, tangible benefits for the animals. Living plants provide natural cover and climbing perches, shade, basking sites and maintain natural humidity. Just as live plants in an office can improve workers well-being, live plants in a terrarium will have the same effect for animals.

But not all plants are suitable for terrarium use and it is important to not only choose the correct plants for the environment but also to select species or varieties that do not grow too large. Many houseplants for sale appear suitable when they are small specimens in a garden centre, but given time they may end up as giants that overwhelm a terrarium.

ProRep are delighted to introduce a comprehensive range of live plants. These are not just small houseplants but are a selected range of species that are ideally suited to the terrarium, including some of the more unusual or rare types. They have carefully selected the range so that there are plants to suit all habitats and growth patterns. There are succulents for arid environments, bromeliads, ground cover plants and epiphytes for jungle setups as well as aquatic plants and mosses.

Whatever the environment you're trying to re-create, you will be able to use live plants to suit.

Rhoeo discolor

Commonly called Moses in the Cradle plant this is one of the prettiest plants that can be grown in the terrarium. It needs bright light to maintain its colour and high humidity. The soil needs to be evenly damp and well drained so that the roots are not permanently wet. Occasional drying out will be tolerated but should be avoided if possible. This is quite a tall plant, reaching up to 30cm, and over time it forms large clumps from shots growing from the base but it is so attractive that it makes a fantastic focal point. care should be taken when using this plant in terrariums with large or herbivorous animals as the sap is an irritant and can be toxic if eaten in large quantities.