Terrarium Moss Ball

Aegagropila linnaei was bestowed the name Marimo by Japanese Botanist Tatsuhiko Kawakami in 1989. The name originates from the Japanese word Mari which means ball and Mo which translates to algae.

Marimo moss balls are commonly found in cold, freshwater lakes in Japan and Iceland. Strings of algae roll on the bed of the lake, resulting in a spherical shape. In their natural habitat moss balls multiply by splitting. This can be done at home by splitting the moss ball and rolling the moss in your hands to create two more spherical balls.

This terrarium is happiest in bright, indirect light. To keep the moss balls happy it's best to change the water every two weeks. In their natural habitat, the balls rise and fall as they photosynthesise, this is due to the rapid oxygen production lifting them to the surface of the water.

Marimo moss balls are considered a national treasure in Japan and are seen as a token of good luck and affection.

If ingested this plant can be toxic or poisonous so keep away from dogs, cats or other pets and small children.

Marimo Moss Ball, Aegagropila linnaei