I’ve always loved plants, but let’s be honest – I’m a busy mom and don’t have time for complicated gardening.
That’s why I got so excited when I stumbled onto growing plants in glass bowls of water! It’s super easy, looks amazing, and my kids think it’s cool to see the roots.
Want to give it a try? Here are my top 18 plants that grow great in water!
18 Best Plants for Glass Bowl Water Gardening
1. Lucky Bamboo
Lucky Bamboo has become my go-to for adding a touch of zen to my home office. It thrives in water-filled bowls and brings an air of elegance to any indoor space. Plus, it’s said to bring good luck – something we could all use a little more of, right?
2. Pothos
Oh, how I adore Pothos! This versatile plant grows beautifully in both water and soil. Its trailing vines create a stunning display in glass bowls, perfect for brightening up a dull corner or adding life to a bookshelf.
3. Philodendron
Philodendrons have stolen my heart, especially the Hartley variety. They grow wonderfully in water-filled bowls and add such a lush, green look to any room. I have one in my living room, and it never fails to catch visitors’ eyes.
4. Spider Plant
Spider plants are a fun choice for water culture. They produce these amazing cascading arches of foliage that my kids say look like green fireworks. Just remember to use a large bowl – these guys like to spread out!
5. English Ivy
English Ivy has become my secret weapon for creating beautiful trailing displays. It grows so well in water-filled containers, and I love how it adds a touch of classic charm to my decor.
6. Peace Lily
Peace Lilies are known for their stunning white blooms, and yes, they can be grown in water! I keep one in my bedroom for a serene touch. Just remember, they might need an occasional soil “vacation” to replenish nutrients.
7. Chinese Evergreen
Chinese Evergreens have become my foolproof option for water culture. They adapt so easily to glass bowls, and their variegated foliage is absolutely gorgeous. It’s like having a living piece of art!
8. Arrowhead Vine
I love Arrowhead Vines for smaller spaces. Their arrow-shaped leaves are so charming, and they stay nicely compact in water-filled containers. Perfect for adding a green touch to my crowded kitchen windowsill!
9. Begonia
Some begonia species, like the Rex begonia, can be grown in water culture. Their colorful, patterned leaves never fail to brighten my mood on gloomy days.
10. Coleus
Coleus plants are my go-to when I want to add a pop of color. They propagate well in water and come in such a wide range of vibrant hues. It’s like having a rainbow in a glass bowl!
11. Water Lettuce
Water Lettuce creates the most natural-looking display in glass bowls. It reminds me of mini lily pads, bringing a bit of pond magic indoors.
12. Java Moss
Java Moss is my low-maintenance dream come true. I keep it in a clean, transparent container to fully appreciate its delicate growth. It adds such a soft, natural beauty to any space.
13. Java Fern
Java Fern is fascinating to grow partially above water. Watching it produce small plantlets or new leaves above the water line is like having a little science experiment on display!
14. Marimo Moss Balls
Marimo Moss Balls are these adorable, free-floating algae balls that require no fuss at all. My kids call them “alien eggs,” and love gently rolling them around in their bowl.
15. Hornwort
Hornwort has become my favorite beginner-friendly water plant. It’s free-floating, needs no substrate, and is incredibly hardy. Perfect for those just starting their water gardening journey!
16. Brazilian Pennywort
I call Brazilian Pennywort my “speed demon” of water plants. It grows so rapidly in a glass bowl that I find myself regularly snipping it back. But that just means I always have cuttings to share with friends!
17. Duckweed
Duckweed might be tiny, but it’s mighty in growth speed! I keep it in small bowls on my desk, ensuring it gets plenty of light to maintain its fresh, green appearance.
18. Amazon Frog Bit
Amazon Frog Bit is like Duckweed’s bigger cousin. I use a wide glass bowl to really show off its light green leaves. It’s become a beautiful, floating centerpiece on my dining table.
Care Tips
General Maintenance
Caring for these water-loving plants isn’t too tricky, but there are a few things I’ve learned along the way:
- Lighting is key, especially for plants like Duckweed. I make sure they get enough light to keep them happy and vibrant.
- Some plants, like Brazilian Pennywort, grow super fast. I keep scissors handy for regular trimming to prevent them from taking over.
- Choose your bowl sizes wisely. I learned the hard way that some plants need more space than others. Now, I match the bowl size to the plant’s growth habits for the best results.