10 Beautiful Water Plants Perfect for Small Balcony Gardens

May 2, 2025

Do you dream of having a peaceful garden but only have a small balcony? Don’t worry! You don’t need a big backyard to enjoy greenery. Water plants are a great choice for small spaces. They are easy to grow, look beautiful, and don’t need soil.

With just a small tub, bowl, or bucket, you can create your own little water garden. These plants float or grow in water and make your balcony feel calm and fresh. 10 beautiful water plants that are perfect for small balcony gardens.

Water Lettuce

Water lettuce is one of the best floating plants for small spaces. It has soft green leaves that form a rosette, almost like a little green flower floating on water. The leaves are thick and spongy, helping the plant stay afloat.

It doesn’t need soil. Just place it in a bowl or tub filled with water. It grows quickly, so keep an eye on it and remove extra ones if needed. Water lettuce also helps keep the water clean by absorbing waste. It likes warm weather and partial sunlight.

Duckweed

Duckweed is a super tiny plant. It looks like a bunch of green dots on water. But don’t let the size fool you. Duckweed is powerful. It grows fast and spreads quickly, covering the surface of water.

It’s great for mosquito control because it blocks sunlight from reaching the water, stopping mosquito eggs from growing. It’s also very easy to manage. If it spreads too much, just scoop out some of it. You can grow duckweed in a small bowl, making it perfect for even the smallest balconies.

Water Hyacinth

Water hyacinth is a floating plant with large, shiny green leaves and beautiful purple flowers. It looks lovely and adds color to your balcony. The flowers bloom in warm seasons and can brighten up your space.

This plant needs full sunlight and grows fast, so trim it often. Like other water plants, it also helps clean the water. It absorbs extra nutrients and keeps the water fresh. Be sure to check it weekly so it doesn’t cover your whole container.

Lucky Bamboo

Lucky bamboo is a fun plant to grow. It’s not really a water plant, but it grows very well in water. You’ve probably seen it in shops or homes. People love it because it’s said to bring good luck and peace.

You can grow it in a glass or jar filled with clean water. Add some small stones to hold it upright. Keep it away from direct sun but give it enough light. Change the water once a week to keep the roots healthy. It’s very low-maintenance and perfect for beginners.

Lotus

Lotus is one of the most beautiful water plants. It has large green leaves and big flowers, usually pink or white. The flowers sit above the water and look very elegant.

For small spaces, go for dwarf lotus. You’ll need a wide, shallow tub with some soil at the bottom. Add water over the soil and place the plant. Keep the container in sunlight. It takes time to grow, but when it blooms, it’s worth the wait. The flower has a lovely scent too.

Water Lily

Water lilies are like stars on water. Their leaves float on the surface and flowers bloom above them in different colors like white, pink, and yellow. They are one of the most loved water plants.

Mini or dwarf varieties are best for small balconies. You need a tub with soil at the bottom. Place the lily in the soil and fill the container with water. Keep it in full sunlight. Water lilies bloom in warm weather and bring a peaceful vibe to your space.

Papyrus

Papyrus is a tall, thin plant with a fluffy top. It grows in water and gives a nice look to small spaces. You may have seen it in garden shops or near ponds.

You can grow a smaller type of papyrus called dwarf papyrus in a container. It needs a pot filled with water and a little bit of soil. Put it in a sunny spot and let it grow. It also helps absorb extra water and keeps things tidy.

Umbrella Palm

Umbrella palm is another tall plant that loves wet feet. Its top looks like an open umbrella, which makes it fun and unique. It gives a tropical look to your balcony.

It grows well in pots or tubs filled with water. Just keep the roots under water and place it in a sunny area. This plant grows fast and adds height to your garden corner. You can even use it to create a little privacy.

Mosaic Plant

The mosaic plant is a true beauty. It has small, flat leaves with red and green patterns that look like art. The leaves float on water and form lovely designs.

This plant likes still water and warm weather. It grows slowly and needs a bit more care. Place it in a wide, shallow tub where the water doesn’t move much. It’s perfect if you want something colorful and rare.

Horsetail

Horsetail is a bold, straight plant that looks like green sticks. It’s actually one of the oldest plants on Earth. It grows well in wet soil or shallow water.

You can plant it in a bucket or pot with water and some pebbles. It doesn’t need much light or care. It stays green all year and gives your balcony a modern, clean look. It’s great for beginners who want something simple but stylish.

Best Containers for Water Plants

Container Type	Best For	Style
Ceramic bowl	Floating plants	Decorative
Plastic tub	Bigger plants	Simple and useful
Glass jar	Lucky bamboo	Clean and modern
Metal bucket	Mix of plants	Rustic look

Easy Care Tips

Use clean water
Change water every 7 days
Don’t place in full sun all day
Trim extra leaves
Don’t add too many plants in one tub
Remove dead parts to keep water clean

Why Water Plants Are Great for Balconies

Water plants are relaxing to look at. The sound and look of water make your mind calm. These plants don’t need soil, which means less mess. They are also easy to care for and perfect for people who are new to gardening. Even if your balcony is small, you can enjoy nature. Just one or two water bowls can change the whole space.

Final Thoughts

Water plants are a fun and peaceful way to make your balcony garden beautiful. You don’t need a big space or fancy tools. A simple tub or bucket, some water, and a few lovely plants are enough.

Choose the ones you like, follow the easy care tips, and enjoy your tiny water garden. It’s like having a little pond right at home.

FAQs

Can I grow water plants without soil?

Yes, many float on water.

Do they need full sunlight?

Some do, but not all.

Can I use a plastic tub?

Yes, it works well.

Are they safe for pets?

Most are safe, but check first.

Do I need to change water?

Yes, once a week.

Malta

I am Malta, a 25-year-old web content writer who enjoys turning ideas into clear and engaging stories. I specialize in writing content that is easy to understand and connects with readers. I am passionate about improving my writing skills every day and creating articles, blogs, and web pages that truly stand out.

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