Scale is everything in miniature gardens.

Here are some of the best choices for fairy gardens, terrariums, and other petite plantings.

Preferring moist soil, this miniature garden plant will tolerate some shade.

Victorian Parlor Palm

Credit: Jason Donnelly

Tiny white flowers are held high on the plant, followed by blue berries.

When grown in a terrarium,you might need to clip out oldest stemsto keep it down to size.

Try these miniature plants for terrarium or in rich, moist soil outdoors.

‘Christmas Tree’ Joseph’s Coat

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This miniature landscaping plant goes dormant in cold-winter climates.

Allow the soil to become almost dry, then water generously.

Keep an eye out for spider mites.

‘Sparkler’ Mondo Grass

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Remaining only 2-3 inches tall, one plant can grow to 12 inches wide.

When miniature gardening, do not allow it to dry completely, and fertilize sparingly.

It performs well in terrariums.

Dwarf Lady Fern

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It prefers evenly moist soil, but don’t overwater.

It often blooms all summer long with double pink flowers.

This tiny plant grows best in outdoor containers or beds.

Dwarf Sweet Flag

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Blue moneywort looks great tumbling over the edge of a container.

Name:Lindernia grandiflora

Zones:7-10

E.T.

It’s suitable for miniature gardens because the leaves stay small.

Bugleweed

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Good drainage is a must for this plant, as is good air circulation.

Shape it into a small shrub or treelike form for miniature gardens in dry, sunny plantings.

Take care not to overwater it.

Brass Buttons

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Like taller yarrows, it prefers sun and good drainage.

Name:Achillea sp.

Very good drainage and full sun is a must for thrift.

Ivy

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Don’t allow it to sit in soggy soil.

Bright, indirect sun is best, but a little direct morning sun is fine.

Perfect for pots, it is often used in bonsai culture.

Super Star Creeper

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It loves humidity and bright light but does not tolerate hot sun.

Name:Peperomia glabella

Autumn Fern

Young fronds are coppery, turning green as they mature.

Its preference for humid shade makes autumn fern a colorful candidate for terrariums or shady outdoor plantings.

Miniature Moneywort

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It tolerates a little morning or evening sun.

Name:Chamaedorea elegans’Bella'

Tiny Boston Fern

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Tree of a Thousand Stars

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Dwarf Betony

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Dwarf Heron’s Bill

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Blue Moneywort

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E.T. Fingers (Shrek Plant)

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Cretan Oregano

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Wintercreeper

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Tiny Golden Yarrow

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Thrift

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Heart Fern

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Philodendron

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Variegated Weeping Fig

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Weeping Fig

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Wax Privet

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Autumn Fern

Credit: Jason Donnelly