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An aquarium with plants on top is a beautiful way to combine an underwater fish habitat with lush greenery growing above the water. This style can make an aquarium look more natural, unique, and visually connected to the surrounding room. Instead of limiting plants to the inside of the tank, plants are positioned above or allowed to grow from the top, creating a miniature ecosystem with roots reaching toward the water.
This type of aquarium can be designed in many ways. Some people grow houseplants with their roots in the aquarium water, while others create a paludarium-style setup where aquatic plants, terrestrial plants, rocks, wood, and water are combined. You can also create a simple aquarium with trailing plants around the rim or build a more elaborate planted display for a living room, bedroom, office, or entryway.
The key is choosing plants that can tolerate the environment, supporting them properly, and making sure they do not interfere with fish care, lighting, filtration, or water movement.
What Is an Aquarium With Plants on Top?
An aquarium with plants on top is a fish tank where plants grow above the water surface rather than being completely submerged. The plants may sit on the aquarium rim, grow from floating structures, extend from an external planter, or have their roots placed directly into the aquarium while their leaves remain above the water.
This arrangement is sometimes similar to a riparium or paludarium, depending on how the aquarium is constructed. A simple setup may contain only a few plants growing from the back of the tank, while a larger design can look like a small indoor wetland.
One of the biggest advantages is the contrast between water and greenery. Fish swim below while leaves, stems, and vines create a natural canopy above them.
Popular Aquarium With Plants on Top Ideas
| Design | Best For | Main Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Hanging Plants Aquarium | Small tanks | Trailing greenery |
| Pothos Aquarium | Beginners | Easy-growing roots |
| Riparium Style | Natural setups | Emergent plants |
| Paludarium Aquarium | Advanced setups | Land and water combination |
| Floating Planter | Modern tanks | Clean appearance |
| Bamboo Aquarium | Decorative tanks | Tall vertical growth |
| Moss and Wood | Natural aquascapes | Forest-like appearance |
| Wall Plant Aquarium | Modern homes | Vertical greenery |
| Betta Plant Display | Small tanks | Simple planted design |
| Large Indoor Jungle Tank | Large rooms | Dense tropical appearance |
1. Pothos Aquarium With Plants on Top
Pothos is one of the most popular choices for growing above an aquarium. Its roots can grow into water while its leaves remain outside the tank.
The long stems can be allowed to trail around the aquarium or climb a nearby support. This creates a natural green frame around the tank.
Pothos can also be useful in aquarium setups because its roots take up nutrients from the water as they grow. However, it should not be treated as a replacement for normal filtration and water changes.
For a clean appearance, place the plant at the back of the aquarium and allow several stems to grow upward and outward.
2. Aquarium With Hanging Plants on Top
Hanging plants can make a simple aquarium look much more dramatic. Instead of planting greenery directly into the tank, you can position trailing plants above the aquarium.
Plants can hang from a shelf, wall planter, or nearby support. Their leaves can gradually extend toward the aquarium, creating a soft transition between the tank and the room.
This idea works particularly well with modern aquariums because the greenery adds texture without filling the entire tank.
3. Aquarium With Plants Growing From the Back
Another attractive design is to place plants at the rear of the aquarium and allow them to grow upward.
The front of the aquarium can remain open for viewing, while plants create a dense background. This approach works well when you want a natural appearance without covering the entire water surface.
Wood, rocks, and tall aquatic plants can be used underwater to visually connect the submerged section with the plants growing above.
4. Aquarium With Plants Growing From the Water
Some plants can grow with their roots submerged while their stems and leaves remain above the surface. This creates a striking emergent-plant appearance.
The roots can extend through the water and provide additional texture. Fish may swim around the roots, creating a natural-looking environment.
When using this design, make sure the roots do not become so dense that they interfere with filtration or restrict fish movement.
5. Paludarium-Style Aquarium With Plants on Top
A paludarium is an excellent option if you want both water and land areas. Instead of simply putting plants above a traditional aquarium, you create different levels for aquatic and terrestrial growth.
Rocks, driftwood, soil areas, moss, and emergent plants can be arranged above the water.
The result can resemble a small tropical forest, stream, riverbank, or jungle pond.
This design requires more planning than a basic aquarium, but it can become an impressive centerpiece.
6. Riparium Aquarium With Plants on Top
A riparium focuses on plants that naturally grow around the edges of water. Their roots remain close to or inside the water while their foliage grows above the surface.
This makes the aquarium look similar to a natural stream or riverbank.
Tall stems can create a vertical background while smaller plants fill the edges. Driftwood can be used to connect the underwater and above-water sections.
7. Aquarium With Pothos and Driftwood
Combining pothos with driftwood creates a natural jungle-style aquarium.
Place a piece of aquarium-safe driftwood so that part of it extends above the water. Then position the plant near the top and allow its roots to grow into the water.
Over time, the plant can spread around the wood, creating a mature natural appearance.
This design works especially well with freshwater aquariums containing peaceful fish.
8. Aquarium With Plants on Top for Small Spaces
You do not need a large aquarium to create this look.
A small aquarium can have one carefully positioned plant growing from the back corner. A single trailing stem can be enough to create a strong visual effect.
For small tanks, avoid overcrowding the top because excessive roots and foliage can make maintenance difficult.
A simple combination of a small aquarium, one plant, a piece of wood, and a few stones can create an attractive minimalist display.
9. Modern Aquarium With Plants on Top
For a modern home, keep the design clean and controlled.
Use a simple glass aquarium with a limited number of plants. Instead of creating a dense jungle, choose one or two plants with attractive shapes.
White walls, wooden furniture, neutral colors, and simple aquarium equipment can complement this design.
The greenery becomes the main decorative element without making the aquarium appear cluttered.
10. Aquarium With Plants on Top for a Living Room
A living room aquarium can become a major decorative feature when plants grow above it.
A large aquarium can be placed against a feature wall with plants extending upward. Alternatively, a smaller aquarium can sit on a cabinet with trailing plants creating a natural frame.
For a sophisticated appearance, match the plant containers, aquarium stand, and surrounding furniture.
Make sure the aquarium remains accessible for feeding, cleaning, water changes, and equipment maintenance.
11. Bedroom Aquarium With Plants on Top
Plants can give a bedroom aquarium a softer and more relaxing appearance.
A small aquarium with a few green plants growing above the water can create a peaceful visual focal point. Avoid excessively bright lighting if the aquarium is located near the bed.
A minimalist arrangement with one trailing plant and gentle aquarium lighting can work particularly well.
12. Aquarium With Bamboo Growing on Top
Bamboo-style plants are often used in aquarium decorations because they provide a strong vertical element.
However, it is important to understand that not every plant sold as “aquarium bamboo” is truly suitable for permanent underwater growth. Some plants can have their roots submerged while their leaves remain above water, but complete submersion may eventually cause problems.
Use plants according to their actual growth requirements rather than simply choosing them because they look attractive in an aquarium.
13. Aquarium With Plants and Hanging Roots
Visible roots can make an aquarium look remarkably natural.
Allowing roots to extend into the water creates the appearance of a miniature riverbank. Small fish may swim between the roots, while the leaves provide shade above.
This design is particularly attractive when combined with driftwood and smooth stones.
The main concern is controlling root growth. Trim or reposition roots when they become excessive.
Benefits of an Aquarium With Plants on Top
One of the main benefits is visual appeal. Plants can make an aquarium feel more connected to nature and can soften the appearance of glass, equipment, and artificial decorations.
Above-water plants can also absorb nutrients from the water as they grow. Fast-growing plants may use some nitrogen compounds and other nutrients, although this does not eliminate the need for proper aquarium maintenance.
Another advantage is the ability to create different layers. Fish occupy the underwater area while plants occupy the space above, allowing you to use vertical space more effectively.
This can be especially useful in smaller rooms where you want a strong natural display without adding many separate decorations.
Best Plants for an Aquarium With Plants on Top
The best plant depends on the aquarium design, fish species, humidity, lighting, and whether the roots will be submerged.
Popular options include:
- Pothos
- Spider plant
- Peace lily
- Lucky bamboo-style plants
- Philodendron varieties
- Tradescantia
- Syngonium
- Certain riparium plants
- Emergent aquatic plants
- Some herbs and moisture-loving plants
Always research the specific plant before putting it into an aquarium. Some houseplants tolerate wet roots very well, while others may rot when constantly submerged.
How to Set Up an Aquarium With Plants on Top
Start with a properly cycled aquarium suitable for the fish you intend to keep.
Next, decide where the plants will be positioned. The back corners are usually easiest because they leave the front area open for viewing.
Create a secure method for supporting the plants. You can use aquarium-safe holders, plant baskets, hanging structures, or a carefully designed planter system.
If the roots will enter the aquarium, rinse away soil and other substances before placing them near the water. Soil should generally not be allowed to fall into the aquarium unless the setup has specifically been designed for it.
Position the plant so that its roots have access to water while its leaves remain above the surface if the species requires emerged growth.
Finally, observe the aquarium for several days and make adjustments to lighting, water flow, and plant position.
Lighting for an Aquarium With Plants on Top
Lighting depends on the plants being grown.
If the aquarium already has strong lighting for aquatic plants, the above-water plants may receive some benefit. However, the aquarium light may not provide the ideal spectrum or intensity for every terrestrial plant.
Natural room light can help, but direct sunlight can create excessive algae growth and temperature fluctuations.
For a controlled setup, use appropriate aquarium or plant lighting based on the needs of both the aquatic and terrestrial plants.
Can Aquarium Plants Grow Out of the Top?
Yes. Many plants can grow with their roots in aquarium water while their leaves remain above the surface.
This is one of the simplest ways to create an aquarium with plants on top.
However, the plant must be suitable for this type of growth. Some species adapt extremely well to hydroponic or semi-hydroponic conditions, while others do not.
Avoid assuming that any houseplant can be placed directly into aquarium water.
Aquarium With Plants on Top and Fish
The fish should always come first when designing this type of aquarium.
Choose plants and structures that do not reduce swimming space excessively. Fish need adequate open water, hiding areas, and appropriate water conditions.
Peaceful freshwater fish can work well in natural planted setups. Small schooling fish can look particularly attractive swimming beneath hanging roots.
Betta aquariums can also benefit visually from a simple plant growing above the water, provided the setup maintains suitable swimming space and does not interfere with access to the surface.
Aquarium With Plants on Top and Shrimp
Shrimp can look beautiful in an aquarium surrounded by roots and greenery.
The roots can create additional surfaces where microorganisms and biofilm develop. Shrimp may explore these areas while searching for food.
Keep the root system controlled so that it does not make cleaning or water circulation difficult.
How to Prevent Plants From Taking Over the Aquarium
Fast-growing plants can eventually become difficult to manage.
Regular pruning is the simplest solution. Remove yellow or damaged leaves and trim excessive stems before they cover the aquarium.
Roots should also be checked periodically. If they become too dense, gently remove or trim them.
Keep enough open space around the filter intake, heater, feeding area, and other equipment.
A good aquarium with plants on top should look lush without becoming difficult to maintain.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is placing unsuitable plants into the aquarium. A plant may look attractive but still be unable to tolerate constantly wet roots.
Another mistake is allowing plants to block the entire water surface. Fish need adequate access to the surface, especially species that regularly breathe atmospheric air.
Do not allow roots to cover filter intakes or become tangled around equipment.
Avoid excessive fertilizer runoff from terrestrial plants. Products designed for houseplants may contain ingredients that are inappropriate for aquarium water.
Another mistake is ignoring lighting. Both aquatic and terrestrial plants need appropriate light, and excessive light can encourage algae.
Aquarium With Plants on Top for a Natural Look
For the most natural appearance, combine several textures instead of using plants alone.
Driftwood can create vertical structure. Rocks can form the transition between land and water. Moss can soften hard edges, while trailing plants create movement above the aquarium.
Use different leaf shapes and heights to create depth.
The goal should not be to fill every available space. Leaving some open water makes the aquarium feel larger and allows the fish to remain the visual focus.
Minimalist Aquarium With Plants on Top
A minimalist design can be extremely attractive.
Use a clean glass aquarium, simple substrate, one piece of driftwood, and one carefully selected plant.
Keep equipment organized and avoid excessive decorations.
A single plant with long trailing stems can create enough visual interest without making the aquarium look crowded.
DIY Aquarium With Plants on Top
Creating a DIY version can be simple.
A basic setup can use a plant basket or aquarium-safe holder positioned along the rear rim. The plant sits securely while its roots extend toward the water.
For more advanced projects, you can create a custom planter area above the aquarium or build a paludarium-style structure.
Always prioritize stability. Nothing should be able to fall into the aquarium or place excessive pressure on the glass.
How to Choose the Right Design
Consider the size of your aquarium first. Small tanks generally look better with one or two carefully selected plants, while large aquariums can support a more elaborate above-water arrangement.
Next, consider the room.
A modern living room may suit a minimalist design, while a natural or tropical interior can support a dense jungle-style aquarium.
Also consider maintenance. If you want an easy aquarium, choose plants that tolerate the conditions and require limited pruning.
Finally, make sure you can still access every part of the aquarium. A beautiful design is not successful if cleaning the tank becomes difficult.
Final Thoughts
An aquarium with plants on top can transform an ordinary fish tank into a natural-looking indoor ecosystem. Whether you choose a simple pothos growing from the back, a hanging plant arrangement, a riparium, or a complete paludarium, the combination of underwater life and above-water greenery creates a unique visual experience.
The best designs balance beauty with practicality. Plants should have enough room to grow, fish should have adequate swimming space, equipment should remain accessible, and the entire structure should be secure.
Start with a simple design if you are new to this style. One healthy plant, a few natural decorations, and a clean aquarium can be enough to create an impressive result. As you gain experience, you can experiment with more complex combinations of plants, wood, rocks, and water features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put plants on top of my aquarium?
Yes. Many plants can be positioned above an aquarium, especially species that tolerate humid conditions or can grow with their roots in water.
What is the easiest plant for an aquarium with plants on top?
Pothos is one of the easiest options because it grows well with its roots in water while its leaves remain above the surface.
Can pothos grow with its roots in aquarium water?
Yes. Pothos can grow hydroponically with its roots submerged while the leaves remain above the water. Remove soil from the roots before introducing the plant to the aquarium.
Are plants on top good for fish tanks?
They can provide a natural appearance and may absorb some nutrients from the water. However, they should complement rather than replace filtration, water changes, and proper aquarium maintenance.
Can I put a peace lily on top of an aquarium?
A peace lily can be grown with its roots in water while the foliage remains above the surface, provided the setup is appropriate and the plant is kept secure.
Do plants on top reduce aquarium algae?
Fast-growing plants may consume nutrients that would otherwise be available to algae, but they are not a guaranteed solution. Proper lighting, filtration, feeding, and maintenance are still important.
Can fish live under plants with roots?
Yes. Many fish can live comfortably around plant roots as long as there is enough open swimming space and the roots do not interfere with filtration.
Is an aquarium with plants on top difficult to maintain?
It can be very easy when using a few suitable plants. More complicated paludarium-style designs require more pruning, cleaning, and careful management.
Can I make an aquarium with plants on top in a small tank?
Yes. A small aquarium can look excellent with one trailing plant or a small plant growing from the back. Keeping the design simple makes maintenance easier.
What should I avoid when growing plants above an aquarium?
Avoid unsuitable plants, excessive root growth, soil entering the water, blocked filter intakes, excessive shading, and fertilizers that are not safe for aquarium environments.
Can I grow terrestrial plants in aquarium water?
Some terrestrial plants can adapt to having their roots submerged while their leaves remain above water. However, not every terrestrial plant can survive this condition.
What makes an aquarium with plants on top look natural?
A combination of healthy plants, driftwood, rocks, open swimming space, and varied heights usually creates the most natural appearance. Keeping the design balanced is more important than adding a large number of decorations.