Bearded dragons make great pets, but they need proper care and attention to thrive in captivity. One important aspect of caring for a bearded dragon is providing them with the right environment. Enrichment and stimulation are crucial for their well-being, which is why live plants in their enclosure can be beneficial. In this article, we will discuss the various benefits of live plants for bearded dragons and suggest 21 safe plants, flowers, and herbs that you can grow in their enclosure.
Why Put Live Plants in Your Bearded Dragon’s Enclosure?
Bearded dragons are creatures of habit, and they thrive when their environment resembles their natural habitat. Live plants can provide several benefits to your pet, including:
1. Perching: In the wild, bearded dragons use trees or strong plants as perching and sleeping spots. Adding live plants to their enclosure can provide a natural spot for them to rest and bask.
2. Shade: Bearded dragons need shade to help thermoregulate, and plants with large leaves can provide a great shady spot.
3. Food: Bearded dragons need vegetables in their diet, and live plants will give them natural foraging activity while providing necessary nutrients.
4. Hiding: In the wild, bearded dragons need places to hide from predators, and live plants can provide a retreat spot in captivity.
5. Natural habitat: Live plants can help your captive beardie feel more “at home” and improve their quality of life.
The 21 Safe Plants to Grow in Your Bearded Dragon’s Enclosure
1. Elephant Bush: A small-leaved succulent that can be pruned to size, it grows quickly under ideal lighting and provides a natural and wild look to the enclosure.
2. Aloe: Extremely easy to grow and propagate, it’s non-toxic if ingested but may cause watery stools.
3. Haworthia: Thrives in low-light conditions and doesn’t require much water, making it easy to care for.
4. Echeveria: A hardy succulent that’s easy to care for and propagate, it’s non-toxic if ingested and adds a beautiful touch to the enclosure.
5. Blushing Bride: An air plant that’s easy to grow and safe for ingestion, it pulls moisture from the air in the enclosure.
6. Creeping Inch Plant: A compact plant with small leaves, it’s perfect for covering ground in the enclosure and is often enjoyed by reptiles as food.
7. Resurrection Plant: Very easy to care for and manage in a bearded dragon tank, it can survive for years in a dormant state and then be resurrected with water.
8. Nasturtium: Fast-growing and non-toxic if ingested, its flowers add color to the enclosure.
9. Prayer Plant: Thrives in warm conditions and can be used as a centerpiece in the enclosure.
10. Burro’s Tail Cactus: Simple to propagate but requires extra care and attention as it’s not a hardy plant.
11. Red Rooster Ornamental Grass: Resembles the grasses in a bearded dragon’s natural environment and provides enrichment for your pet.
12. Lithops: A hardy succulent that looks like a stone and can survive in harsh conditions.
13. Clover: Edible and easy to grow from seed, it’s perfect for snacking but may not last long.
14. Prickly Pear Cactus: A nutritious and safe plant that provides calcium and moisture in addition to enrichment.
15. Rosella Hibiscus: Flowers and leaves make great treats for beardies, providing them with an array of snacks and endless enrichment opportunities.
16. Waxvine: Fast-growing vine that can provide lush foliage for climbing and exploring.
17. Lemon Balm: Aromatic herb that emits a lemon scent when crushed or rubbed; it’s easy to propagate and add a nice touch to the enclosure.
18. Spiderwort: A beautiful and easy-to-care-for plant that’s non-toxic to pets.
19. Snake Plant: A tough and durable plant that can withstand low light and neglect.
20. Coleus: A fast-growing plant that adds vibrant color to the enclosure but requires attention to prevent it from becoming too big.
21. Moses-in-a-Boat: A unique and hardy plant that can survive under low-light conditions and is safe for pets if ingested.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating live plants in your bearded dragon’s enclosure can provide several benefits, including a natural environment, food, and enrichment opportunities. However, always research the plant’s toxicity level before adding it to your tank and purchase from a reputable source. Additionally, ensure that the plants are not treated with pesticides or herbicides that may harm your pet. With proper care and attention, you can create a beautiful and healthy environment for your bearded dragon.
