Marimo is a Japanese word that literally means seaweed ball, those little green things you see above are typically referred to as Marimo Moss Balls. But they are neither seaweed nor moss. They're actually a rare type of algae (Aegagropila linnaei, for those who care) that is known for growing in spherical clumps because of the way the water currents push them along the floor like tumble weeds. 

A Marimo Terrarium is probably the easiest thing to make and also maintain. The main reason why marimos are so popular is because of how easy they are to maintain. They don't require a lot of light and they live in water so you don't have to worry about watering them. All you need to do is change the water weekly. Another reason why people like marimos is because depending on the change of environment and amount of light they get, they can sort of "bounce" up and down when they are photosynthisizing. 


Natural Marimo balls are a national treasure in Japan because of their beauty and cultural significance. They are now being protected because the marimo population has been declining. In fact, natural marimo balls are rarely sold and can cost at least $100 - $200  for a 1-5 in balls.  Those grown artificially however, can cost from $5-$25 at the most expensive price. 

The balls are quite squishy and should be completely solid algae, anything with Styrofoam or something else in the middle is probably a knockoff... yes, there are actually knock offs. It kinda weird holding these in my hand because of the story behind them.

"Legend tells of two lovers who desired nothing more than to be together. When their love was forbidden, they fell into the water, and their hearts became Marimo balls. Marimo are said to bring your heart’s desire to both giver and receiver."
"The Marimo represents love, at least according to Japanese folklore. Because of this story, the Marimo is known as the “love plant,” as it is said that the algae can recognize true love. In fact, many people choose to give a Marimo to the person they hope to spend the rest of their lives with."

It's cute because the marimo, like love, grows slowly and lasts forever, but they say the spirit of their love still lives in the marimos today... So, I'm holding the hearts of long lost lovers.... romantic?



I just let my moss balls sit in water for a few minutes. You could just leave it like this and be done with it.



I added some plant pebbles I had lying around, I've also seen sand and even marbles used pretty much anything you want as long as it isn't putting harmful substances in the water.