When creating a dart frog vivarium, it's important to choose plants that will provide cover, that will help maintain humidity, and that will be safe for the frogs to climb on and interact with. Here are some plant options that are suitable for dart frog vivariums:
- Bromeliads: These plants are popular for dart frog vivariums because they provide cover and maintain humidity. They also have a cup in the center of the plant that collects water, which is helpful for the frogs for both rehydration and for depositing tadpoles. Bromeliads can be used in vivarium backgrounds, or planted if they have an established root system. Ensure you buy your bromeliads from a reputable shop that will send you viable plants, not fresh cut pups without roots.
- Ferns: Many species of ferns are suitable for dart frog vivariums. They provide cover and also help to maintain humidity. Try to use ferns that will not outgrow your vivarium
- Orchids: Orchids are beautiful and come in a variety of shapes and colors. They also provide cover and help maintain humidity. Jewel orchids are an excellent choice for planting directly into the soil, while epiphytic species will need to be mounted on wood decor or on your background and will need ventilation to prevent rot.
- Mosses and Liverworts: Mosses and liverworts are great for adding texture and depth to a vivarium, and they also help to maintain humidity. All species of moss are safe for dart frogs so long as they are tissue cultured or domestically grown, and not wild collected.
- Pothos: Pothos is a popular plant for vivariums because it is easy to care for and grows quickly. It also provides cover and is safe for dart frogs to climb on.
- Marcgravia: Vining plants such as marcgravia make a stunning statement on your vivarium background and come in a variety of colors. These are an excellent way to spice up any tank.
- Syngoniums: Syngoniums come in a wide array of colors and patterns, adding flair to your vivarium while also being hardy plants in general.
- Philodendrons: Coming in all shapes and sizes, philodendrons are hardy plants that add beautiful shapes and robust foliage to your tank. Larger leaved species will allow frogs to perch upon them. Just ensure you stick with species that will not outgrow your tank as some can grow quite large.
- Begonias: Begonias come in hundreds of shapes, sizes, and colors. Some even have iridescent leaves! While somewhat fragile and somewhat finicky (most do not like transplanting or water on the leaves), their stunning leaves rival any flower.
When selecting plants for your dart frog vivarium, make sure to research each species to ensure that it has the proper lighting and watering requirements. It's also important to avoid using any plants that have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals. Do not use wild collected plants as these often harbor pests and will typically be temperate species that will not do well in a tropical vivarium as many need a dormancy period.