A home aquarium is a peaceful space filled with fish, plants, and ornaments. Not all tanks are suitable for live aquatic plants, and if you’ve got black thumbs, you may choose to use silk aquatic plants instead.
Tank decorations and plants serve as hiding spots for fish. Instead of the real deal, Silk aquarium plants are low maintenance, last practically forever, are stunning, and are a favorite with beginner aquarists.
Learn which silk aquarium plants to choose right here.
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Silk Aquarium Plants (Our Picks)
With so many online options, choosing the best silk aquarium plants can take time and effort. The overall effect matters, but you must also check how functional the plants are.
Unfortunately, managing live aquatic plants in a tank is a hassle, so silk or faux aquarium plants are very popular.
We delved into many options to create this list with our top picks.
1. biOrb Silk Plant Set
You don’t have to splurge on costs when choosing a silk plant set. The biOrb Silk Plant Set is a two-plant set for under $20. Available in two color matches – green and red, the plants add dimension to your aquarium.
The expansive design of the leaves offers amazing hiding spots, which is beneficial. This plant set is an excellent addition if you have small and delicate fish species in the tank. The rounded, flexible leaves don’t hurt your fish with scrapes or cuts.
Weighing around 0.25 pounds, the plants have a weighted bottom anchoring them to the substrate. Also, they are pretty versatile and look great in freshwater and saltwater tanks.
Why should you get it?
- Affordable pricing
- Flexible and delicate design
- It comes in a pack of two plants
- Versatile for any tank set-up
2. Alegi Aquarium 10-inch Silk Plants
Are you looking for lifelike silk plants to add to your aquarium? Well, nothing beats the Alegi Aquarium 10-inch Silk Plants. This one is specifically designed for betta fish tanks, especially with the larger leaves and bright green colors.
The durable, high-quality silk fabric flows comfortably in the water and doesn’t hurt the fish. Since bettas are pretty small, you want plants that don’t have ragged edges. In addition, the plant features a non-toxic, colorfast, and odor-free color, which doesn’t change the water’s chemistry.
Fitted with a weighted ceramic bottom base, the plant stays in the tank, allowing easy installation. Thanks to the high-quality construction, you can affix it to any water type – freshwater or saltwater.
Why should you get it?
- High-quality silk fabric
- Colors are non-toxic
- Easy to anchor into the tank’s substrate
- Ideal for any tank type
3. Green Moneywort Foreground Silk Plant by Marina Naturals
When talking about artificial aquarium plants, Marina Naturals is a leading name. The green moneywort plants add a classic finish to the tank, especially if you want a dash of color.
Besides the high-quality silk material, the natural translucent look blends with the aquarium water. It resembles a live aquatic plant from afar, which is why it is such a popular choice.
The non-toxic silk material with the ceramic base makes the installation process easy and non-complicated. Also, if you are worried about affecting water chemistry, don’t, as this plant is safe for fish and aquatic environments.
Why should you get it?
- Premium quality silk material
- Looks natural and life-like
- It comes with a ceramic base
- It doesn’t affect water chemistry
4. Red Foreground Silk Plant by Marina Naturals
Another popular silk plant from Marina Naturals is the red foreground. The bright red color of the plant adds a contrast to the aquarium space. Pair that with a lower price of under $10; you are already winning.
Despite being an artificial aquatic plant, the plant has a natural flair and look. The bottom of the plant is fitted into a ceramic base that sits securely on the substrate. Additionally, the non-toxic silk material doesn’t affect water quality, ensuring the ultimate health of your fish.
The plant measures 5-6 inches in height and is ideal for smaller aquariums that house smaller fish species like betta and cichlids.
Why should you get it?
- Natural translucent appearance
- Ideal for smaller fish tanks
- Affordable pricing
- It comes with a ceramic base
5. Otimark Realistic Faux Silk Aquarium Ficus
If your budget is around $20, the Otimark Realistic Faux Silk Aquarium Ficus is a great choice. Ficus plants add dimension and beauty to the aquarium, giving the small fish species a jungle to swim through.
Otimark’s silk ficus tree simulates the appearance of a real-life ficus with bright green leaves and a brown stem. The ultra lifelike appearance sets it apart from the other silk plants in the market.
The base features a high-quality ceramic material that is water-resistant and weighted to remain on the bottom of the aquarium. It is designed with high-quality silk material and soft plastic so that you can use the set in saltwater and freshwater tanks.
Why should you get it?
- It looks like a live ficus tree
- Designed with non-toxic materials
- Easy to install
- Durable in different water conditions
6. Green Pickerel Silk Plant by Marina Naturals
Another under $10 silk plant worth considering is the Green Pickerel Silk Plant. This is a popular choice in the Marina Naturals range. The pickerel plant features a blend of red and green, which adds vibrance to the overall appearance of the tank set-up.
Besides the bright colors, the plant features a natural, translucent-looking design that adds to the illusion of an actual water plant. The color doesn’t fade over time, making it a good investment. So, no need to change the plant every few months or worry about it affecting your tank water parameters.
Bury the ceramic base to install the plant quickly, especially if you have an aquarium gravel base. The non-toxic materials, colorfast dyes, and great appearance make this a winner.
Why should you get it?
- Affordably priced
- It has a natural, translucent appearance (great with a wavemaker in your tank)
- Ceramic base for easy installation
- Non-toxic silk material
7. Marineland Multi-Pack Assorted Silk Plants
Are you one of those people that has a hard time making decisions? If yes, the Marineland Multi-Pack Assorted Silk Plants are just what you need. The pack comes with an assortment of silk plants you can install into your aquarium as a planted forest.
The multi-pack silk plants blend red, green, and differently shaped plants that spruce up the tank’s appearance. They make good hiding spots for the smaller fish species in the tank while the soft leaves move to the current, increasing their naturalistic look.
Why should you get it?
- Premium quality choice
- It comes with three different varieties of plants in four sizes
- Perfect for smaller fish species
- Affordable price
8. Balacoo Aquarium Reptile Plants
Finding reptile silk plants for your aquarium can be tough, especially if you have a small budget. This one from Balacoo is priced under $15 and is easy to install, clean, and maintain. Since these are hanging plants, the back comes with suction cups that you can attach to the side of the aquarium.
The life-like simulated design of these plants makes them perfect for combination terrarium-aquariums, especially if you want to spruce up the appearance. Use this plant if you have a combination tank with an aquarium section and raised platforms for turtles.
The durable, non-toxic plastic and silk material ensures prolonged usage without damage. These plants are easy to clean. You need only dunk them into the water and scrub.
Why should you get it?
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Non-toxic silk material
- Ideal for fish and reptile aquarium
- Translucent, life-like design
9. BEGONDIS Aquarium Decorations 3Pcs Fish Tank Artificial Green Water Plants
Large aquariums benefit from a green wall that creates depth and hides hardware like filters and thermometers. This set of three silk plants comes with five leaves each, and it has a maximum height of 11.1 inches, making it ideal for a deep tank.Â
Best of all, the soft silk needles on each leaf create a realistic underwater planted tank, which gives small fish a space to hide and spawn young. When you have a wavemaker, the leaves create a sense of motion for a natural underwater landscape with exquisite details.
At less than $15, this set is an absolute steal.
Why should you get it?
- Set of three plants that cover a significant section of your tank
- Made from silk and plastic for durability and it’s non-toxic
- Vibrant color green
- Easy to clean and safe for fish
10. EDGCTYU Aquarium Silk Plants for Betta Fish Tank
The next set of silk aquarium plants is a bargain with a large mother plant and three smaller plants included. The three smaller plants have ceramic bases to help anchor the plants in the substrate. The leaves are broad, giving shelter to smaller fish and a resting place for larger goldfish to bask.Â
With colorfast dye, soft leaves, and bright natural colors, this set is ideal for a first-time aquarist and is long-lasting, too. Simply wash when the leaves start to brown.
Why should you get it?
- Great price
- A full set of a mother plant and three smaller plants
- Naturalistic appearance
- Safe for water quality and non-toxic
11. Smoothedo-Pets Fish Tank Decorations Aquarium Decor Ornaments Betta Silk Leaf pad Hammock
Adding some driftwood to your tank’s planted appearance can give you a natural appearance and loads of hiding spots for your small fish. This set is anchored in driftwood, making it an instant focal point in your tank.
A combination of smaller grasses and broad-leafed plants make an authentic environment that can easily be anchored in the gravel substrate. The leaves are soft and won’t harm any fish, and the natural cave makes an excellent place for crustaceans to dwell.Â
The dyes are safe for fish and non-toxic. The plants should retain color and shape with normal use, so avoid harsh chemicals that could stain the leaves.
Why should you get it?
- Well priced
- Good quality leaves and use of silk and plastic as materials
- Includes a driftwood cave for an additional aesthetic feature
- Great customer support
12. BiOrb 46079.0 Kelp Set Small Purple Aquariums
It’s time to add a little color to your tank in a natural shade perfect for reef tanks—purple. The BiOrb kelp plants are super cute, add a different color dimension to your tank, and are so lifelike that no one will guess they are faux plants.
The two plants come with ceramic mounts to help anchor them, and their soft silk leaves will naturally move with the tank’s current, adding to the illusion that they are real. The pale lavender-purple color will pick up the LED lighting in your tank, creating a warm glow at night.Â
The soft leaves also prevent fish from getting cut when swimming near the leaves. The dyes are color-safe and are a non-toxic product from a reputable supplier.
Ideal for saltwater, freshwater, or tropical tanks.
Why should you get it?
- Fairly priced
- A colorful addition to any tank
- Naturalistic in appearance
- Non-toxic and safe for any tank type
13. DOBA No Wire Betta Bed Leaf Hammock
Depending on your type of tank, a large leaf that can support resting fish is an ideal addition. This large wireless leaf is a perfect hammock for goldfish, beta, small turtles, and oxoloths to recline on. The suction cup attachment lets you place the leaf anywhere along the tank’s sides.
Colorfast dye, plastic leaf veins for support, and a natural look make this an ideal tank decoration. The soft silk fabric combines with the plastic backing to create a natural-looking leafy ledge for fish to enjoy.
Why not get several and up your green factor at a great price?
Why should you get it?
- Very affordable
- Soft and durable
- Non-toxic and fish-safe
- Suction cup for mounting
14. Imagitarium Bright Green Silk Plant
Ferns add beauty and authenticity to a tank, but live ferns can be challenging to grow. Luckily, this silk fern is an ideal alternative to add to your tank. It creates height and width with its unique shape and lush leaves.
The fern is non-toxic, has silken leaves, and is a safe play space for young and spawning fish. The bright green color will liven up any tank and blends perfectly with live or silk plants.
Place the weighted base in the substrate for easy installation and rinse when leaves start to look dull from algae.
Why should you get it?
- Safe for saltwater and freshwater tanks
- Color-safe and non-toxic
- Helps reduce fish stress with hiding spaces
- Leaves are soft and won’t harm fish
15. 9 Pieces Betta Hammock Bed Leaf Silk Plants
Leaf hammocks are ideal for adding a vertical dimension to any tank, and they are functional, too, as many fish like to rest on these leaves or catch some extra light. Adding just one leaf to a tank with several fish is impractical, which is why this 9-piece hammock set is brilliant.
The set includes nine different hammock leaves with suction cups for easy attachment. The different-sized leaves and designs make for a beautiful wall of leaves in your tank that your fish will love. It’s easier to change the leaf position as needed than a live plant or an anchored silk plant. Simply reposition the suction cups to where your fish prefer them.
Fish love hiding under the leaves, resting on them, or spawning among the leaf sets. The leaves are easy to clean; simply rinse. The dyes are non-toxic, and the silk leaves are durable.
Why should you get it?
- The ideal arrangement of silk leaves in a tank
- Versatile leaf set that’s functional too
- Very affordably priced
- Realistic features in a tank
How to Clean Silk Aquarium Plants?
Since silk aquarium plants are made with artificial plastic and silk fabric, cleaning them is not a hassle. All you have to do is follow these steps:
- Start by removing the silk aquarium plant from the tank
- Use a bucket of warm water and dunk the plant in it to remove the algae growth on it
- Use a bowl, mix ½ cup of iodized salt and enough lemon juice to make a thick paste
- Using a toothbrush, take the paste and scrub it on the leaves and stems of the silk plants
- Once done cleaning, run the plant under hot water again to remove the excess salt
- You can either use paper towels to dry them or put them back into the tank
Remember that if the algal deposition is beyond control and scrubbing doesn’t work, we’d recommend discarding the silk plant and installing a new one.
Things To Consider When Buying a Silk Aquarium Plant
Buying an artificial silk aquarium plant is an ideal choice for beginner aquarists. They are easy to maintain and don’t alter the water’s chemistry.
However, plan what you are looking for before buying silk aquarium plants. Consider these factors before making the purchase.
1. Quality of the Material
Silk aquarium plants are available in abundance. However, we’d recommend buying from reputed brands and sellers. Random brands offer very low-quality fabric material that doesn’t last long in the water or retain colors.
So, pick water-resistant and high-quality translucent silk material that will last long. Reviews should give you a comprehensive idea of the best options.
2. Non-Toxic Material
When choosing the silk aquarium plant material, you also need to prioritize non-toxic material. These include the color of the leaves and the stem of the plant. Ideally, choosing non-toxic options ensures the aquarium water’s chemistry isn’t compromised.
If the paint leaks from the leaves or the stem, it will eventually affect the quality of the water, something that could kill all your fish.
3. Type and Design
Silk aquarium plants come in different types. You get creepers, ferns, mosses, and even unique plants like pickerel and moneywort. However exotic the options are, pick the one you think will blend well with your aquarium’s design and layout.
4. Durability
There’s no point spending your money on a silk aquarium plant if it doesn’t last for a few years with regular cleaning. Despite the affordable price point, a good-quality silk plant should last 1-2 years.
So, ideally, choose the best options that will last a good few months so you don’t have to worry about replacing leaves soon.
5. Affordability
The last consideration is affordability. There are pricey silk plants over $50, and then you have the ones under $10. Both are potentially equally good, provided you are buying from somewhere reliable.
FAQs
Its durability is the main difference between a silk plant and a standard artificial plant. The plastic plants are more durable, while the silk plants are more likely to damage, wear, and tear. However, silk plants are more lifelike and move naturally with the current.
The algae deposit is the main reason your silk aquarium plants are turning brown. It happens when organic matter decomposes on the plant, which you should avoid at all costs.
Most fake aquarium plants are made with polyester and plastic material. However, a few expensive designs feature silk fabric.
It is hands down one of the best tricks for aquarium set-up. Mixing a blend of artificial and natural plants ensures you spruce up the appearance of the aquarium. Also, if the real plants die, you always have the artificial ones as a backup in the tank.
Silk plants are more or less compatible with any fish species in the aquarium. However, since they are very delicate, we recommend not keeping them with larger, predatory fish species prone to fighting, which may rip the leaves.
Wrapping Up
Adding silk plants to your aquarium is an easy and effective way to brighten the look of your tank. They are delicate and make the tank look livelier. So, if you have small and delicate fish species in the tank, adding silk plants offers comfort and prevents injury risks.
With such diverse faux silk plants on the market, choosing one need not be a challenge. Use our detailed buyer’s guide to check out the top available choices and make your aquarium a natural and beautiful aquatic world.