A paludarium offers the best of both worlds: the beauty of an aquarium combined with the lush greenery of a terrarium. With the Ultum Nature Systems Foresta Paludarium — available in the 35E and 60E models — hobbyists can create stunning hybrid environments where aquatic plants thrive alongside humidity-loving terrestrial species.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best plants for UNS paludariums, including aquatic, emergent, and tropical varieties that bring your setup to life.
Why Plant Choice Matters in a Paludarium
The UNS Foresta series includes built-in filtration, a cascading waterfall wall, and an atomizer misting system, creating the perfect conditions for both submerged and land-based plants. Choosing the right mix ensures a balanced, natural look while keeping your ecosystem healthy. The goal is to combine plants that thrive in high humidity and can adapt to aquatic or semi-aquatic conditions.
Best Aquatic Plants for the UNS Paludarium
Aquatic plants form the base of any paludarium and bring vibrancy to the submerged section. Recommended species include:
- Anubias – Hardy, low-light plants that can be attached to rocks or driftwood.
- Bucephalandra – Popular in aquascaping, they thrive in high humidity and shaded areas.
- Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) – A resilient choice for beginners that doesn’t require substrate.
- Cryptocoryne species – Provide lush greenery and work well in the foreground or midground.
These plants grow underwater but also adapt to higher humidity, making them perfect for UNS 35E and 60E Paludariums.
Best Emergent Plants for Hybrid Growth
Emergent plants grow partly underwater and extend above the waterline, blending the aquatic and terrestrial sections. Popular options include:
- Hydrocotyle tripartita – Spreads quickly across hardscape, adding a natural, creeping effect.
- Hygrophila species – Hardy stems that transition beautifully between water and air.
- Lagenandra meeboldii – A striking plant with broad leaves that thrives in humid environments.
These species take advantage of the Foresta’s cascading waterfall wall, enjoying constant moisture while adding vertical dimension.
Best Tropical & Terrarium Plants for the Foresta
The atomizer misting system in UNS paludariums makes it possible to keep true terrarium plants. These thrive in constant humidity and create the rainforest effect paludariums are famous for:
- Ferns (Nephrolepis, Microsorum, or Adiantum) – Add lush texture to the terrestrial section.
- Mosses (Java moss, Christmas moss, or terrestrial cushion moss) – Excellent for covering rocks and wood in the high-humidity zone.
- Mini orchids – Thrive in the moist air and add a splash of colour.
- Tillandsia (air plants) – Can be mounted near the waterfall for a striking look.
These plants benefit from consistent misting and airflow, which the UNS 35E and 60E provide through their integrated systems.
Creating Your Tropical Paludarium Setup
When planting your UNS paludarium, think about layers and transitions:
- Use aquatic plants at the base to create an underwater forest.
- Add emergent species along the waterline for a seamless transition.
- Finish with tropical terrarium plants on the waterfall wall and background for height and depth.
This approach results in a balanced, naturalistic display where each plant thrives in its ideal microclimate.
Shop UNS Paludariums at Charterhouse Aquatics
Whether you’re starting small with the UNS 35E or building a dramatic landscape with the UNS 60E, choosing the right plants is key to success. At Charterhouse Aquatics UK, we stock the full range of Ultum Nature Systems paludariums and accessories, giving you everything you need to create your own tropical rainforest ecosystem at home.
Explore the Ultum Nature Systems Paludarium Collection today and bring your vision to life.
