A glass terrarium is a decorative container that holds a small display behind glass. It can be planted with suitable small plants, or filled with dry materials such as gemstone chips, decorative moss, dried flowers or artificial botanicals for a plant-free arrangement. In a shop setting it also works simply as a sculptural glass object on a shelf, counter or windowsill.

No. They are supplied as empty glass containers. Any plants, moss, gemstone chips or ornaments shown in photographs are styling suggestions to show the product in use. This is deliberate — it lets a retailer sell them plain, or add their own materials and sell a finished arrangement as their own product.

A closed container holds humidity and recirculates moisture, which suits small, slow-growing tropical plants, miniature ferns and mosses. An open container allows airflow and generally suits plants that dislike constant humidity, such as many succulents, or air plants displayed without compost. This family includes open designs, lidded designs and narrow vase-like vessels, so check the shape and opening of the individual product and match the planting to it rather than assuming one approach fits all.

Layered gemstone chips, decorative moss, sand or coloured stone, dried flowers and stems, small artificial botanicals, shells, or a seasonal scene changed through the year. Battery-operated decorative lights can work if their own instructions allow enclosed use. Dry arrangements need no watering or light management, which makes them the easier option for gift shops and for customers who want the look without the care.