Air plants have been around for a long time, but their popularity keeps expanding the ways we display them. From simple mounts to sculptural designs, air plant containers now range from minimalist glass orbs to crafted wooden bases and artistic terrariums. Below is a curated collection of fresh, stylish display ideas that show how versatile these low-maintenance plants can be.
Design trends for air plant displays are constantly evolving. Glass globes remain a favorite, while shells, handcrafted ceramics and reclaimed materials continue to inspire new formats. Many of the items featured here are handmade by independent artisans, highlighting creative approaches and current trends in color, texture and form.
Hanging Air Plant Containers
Hanging planters lift greenery into the air and create dynamic vertical interest. The Pyramid Orb Air Plant Planter from Oriskany Glass is made with a Tiffany-style technique that produces delicate beveled lines and a black patina finish that highlights its angles.
Rather than using shells, some artists craft whimsical hanging figures to hold air plants. Jellyfish-inspired planters made of polymer clay and glitter give a playful, ethereal look while letting the plants drape like tentacles.
For a more sculptural, earthy approach, the Hanging Air Plant Cradle from mudpuppy is hand-shaped from unglazed white earthenware. Its curved form and central opening cradle the plant and look beautiful alone or grouped.
Magnetic mini planters offer a modern and space-saving option. Small geometric holders with metallic accents can stick to refrigerators, metal cabinets or any magnetic surface—ideal for tiny air plants and clever accents around the home.
Ceramic Air Plant Holders
Ceramic planters bring texture and crafted detail to air plant displays. Geometric polymer clay designs embellished with gold and silver leaf add color-blocking contrast and a contemporary edge that works well on shelves and desktops.
Organic ceramic pods with ventilation holes make natural, breathable homes for air plants. Pieces like the Winnie Pod are hand-thrown earthenware that arrive ready with an air plant installed—ideal for larger, dramatic groupings.
Sleek black egg-shaped ceramic containers make subtle, modern accents and are versatile for event décor or minimalist interiors.
Wooden Air Plant Containers
Wooden mounts lend warmth and an organic feel. Small cedar stumps drilled to accept air plants are simple, rustic accents that make watering and removal easy while bringing natural texture indoors.
Fallen tree wood turned into tiny planters showcases the natural grain and color variations of the wood. These make thoughtful gifts and favors, and many makers will match the wood tone to your preference.
Mopani wood, valued for its durability and knobby form, creates striking branch displays where multiple air plants can be nestled, each arrangement completely unique to the piece of wood used.
Air Plant Terrarium Options
Terrariums let you create small, curated scenes. Nautical-themed bowls with black sand and decorative pearls offer a coastal twist, while footed glass spheres lift the composition for an elegant tabletop display that can include preserved lichen, moss and mineral accents.
Geometric glass terrariums—like a hand-assembled dodecahedron made from reclaimed glass—are decorative and practical, providing airflow through open facets while showing off the plant from multiple angles.
Modern minimalist cylinders with angled tops serve as neat tabletop pieces and often include pre-drilled holes for wall mounting. Select filler materials—white pebbles, colored sand or small stones—to personalize each arrangement.
For a playful, kinetic option, there are terrariums mounted on a rocking stand that tilt gently—combining movement with the transparent charm of glass to create an engaging display.
From hanging orbs and magnetic minis to handcrafted ceramics, wooden mounts and geometric terrariums, the options for displaying air plants are virtually endless. As air plants remain a popular choice for low-maintenance greenery, designers and makers continue to innovate—offering imaginative ways to showcase these adaptable plants in any interior style.