Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow' – The slender, easy-to-fix fern
Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow' , also known as the narrow-leaved Java fern, is an ideal aquarium plant for beginners and aquascaping enthusiasts alike . It grows naturally attached to an aquarium root or rock , without the need for substrate, making it very easy to install. Its thin, elongated leaves offer a fluid and elegant movement in the water . It is not demanding: moderate light, no need for CO2, and a good ability to adapt to different parameters. In addition to being decorative, it also offers perfect hiding places for fish and shrimp . It is a plant that grows slowly but surely.
Thin, slender leaves for an elegant, natural touch
Easily attaches to roots or stones without substrate
An Asian plant with a graphic look and easy growth
Native to Southeast Asia, Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow' is a very popular cultivar thanks to its thin leaves and more horizontal habit than its classic cousin. It grows slowly, but remains very resistant and undemanding , which makes it an ideal candidate for dressing the background or the middle ground of an aquarium without effort. With its elongated leaves of 10 to 20 cm, it brings movement and lightness to the decor.
An epiphytic plant par excellence, it is simply attached to a support – a root, a stone or even a decoration – with a nylon thread or special glue. No need to bury it in a substrate, its rhizome must not be buried under the risk of rotting. Once attached, it settles quietly and develops its typical dark green foliage, sometimes adorned with small black sporangia, completely normal and harmless.
Easy maintenance for a robust and versatile plant
Microsorum 'Narrow' grows well in a wide range of parameters. It thrives between 10 and 28°C, with a pH between 6.5 and 8, and a hardness ranging from 2 to 20 GH. This means that it adapts to almost any tank. Medium lighting is more than sufficient, although brighter light will encourage denser growth. It tolerates very little disturbed environments, and thrives in a low-flow filter .
Adding nutrients or a CO2 system isn't essential, but it can boost its growth a bit. Its robust nature allows it to be introduced into both new and established tanks. It tolerates even beginner mistakes, making it perfect for those who want a simple, aesthetically pleasing plant without the hassle.
Easy multiplication and successful natural decoration
Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow' propagates itself vegetatively: small shoots often appear at the tips or on the leaves . Just wait until they have some roots to detach them and attach them elsewhere. Alternatively, the rhizome can also be divided, provided each tip has a few leaves. This easy propagation makes it a durable and scalable plant in a container.
It is widely used in aquascaping for its natural look, particularly in forest or Asian river-style settings. Combined with moss or other anchored plants, it helps create shaded areas, hiding places, and much-appreciated depth effects . It pairs wonderfully with calm and discreet species. However, overly scavenging fish or voracious snails can damage it.
One last tip: when setting up, remove the plant from its pot, carefully remove the rock wool, separate the stems, and attach them directly to their support. Nothing could be simpler for a stunning result and a healthy aquarium.
How to plant Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow' in video?
Sansibar DARK 10kg from JBL provides good root support . This black soil substrate for freshwater or saltwater and terrariums, will allow you to obtain vigorous plant growth : the fine grain and density prevent the penetration of humus and other waste.
Helanthium tenellum 'Green' – The perfect plant carpet for your aquarium
Helanthium tenellum 'Green' is a grassy plant ideal for creating a natural, dense carpet in a freshwater aquarium. Unlike the classic variety, this 'Green' version retains a vibrant green hue, even under strong lighting . It forms a compact and attractive plant carpet thanks to its numerous branches. Easy to maintain, it does not require complex care and grows slowly, thus limiting the need for pruning. For optimal development, a CO2 system and nutrient- rich soil are recommended. Whether for a nano aquarium or a large tank, this plant elegantly enhances the foreground.
Perfect for a natural carpet: quickly forms a compact aquatic lawn.
Evergreen foliage: does not turn red even under intense light.
Easy to maintain: slow growth, ideal for limiting regular pruning.
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Automatic feeder for freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Up to 5 feeds per day, suitable for flakes and granules up to 3mm. Comes ready to use with batteries. 2 years warranty.
Helanthium tenellum 'Green' – The perfect plant carpet for your aquarium
Helanthium tenellum 'Green' is a grassy plant ideal for creating a natural, dense carpet in a freshwater aquarium. Unlike the classic variety, this 'Green' version retains a vibrant green hue, even under strong lighting . It forms a compact and attractive plant carpet thanks to its numerous branches. Easy to maintain, it does not require complex care and grows slowly, thus limiting the need for pruning. For optimal development, a CO2 system and nutrient- rich soil are recommended. Whether for a nano aquarium or a large tank, this plant elegantly enhances the foreground.
Perfect for a natural carpet: quickly forms a compact aquatic lawn.
Evergreen foliage: does not turn red even under intense light.
Easy to maintain: slow growth, ideal for limiting regular pruning.
Rotala wallichii – Bright red stems and airy foliage
Tropica 's Rotala wallichii is an exceptional stem plant for enthusiasts who love challenges... and rewards. With its finely cut foliage and spectacular pinkish-red color in good lighting, it transforms an aquarium background into a living tableau. It grows up to 30 cm tall and offers a magnificent contrast with surrounding green plants. Very decorative when planted in groups, it requires strong lighting and a well-established CO2 system . Soft, slightly acidic water and good nutrients are also essential to reveal its full potential. A true star for well-maintained tanks.
Fine, colorful foliage, perfect for the aquarium background
Brings spectacular red and pink hues
Ideal for aquascaping tanks and experienced enthusiasts
Hottonia palustris – Fine, dense foliage, perfect for mid-season areas
Hottonia palustris , or Marsh Hottonia, is an aquarium plant with light and very graphic foliage . Native to Europe and Asia, it is perfect for creating a soft transition between low and tall plants. With its bright light green stems and finely cut leaves, it immediately brings a natural and airy effect to the decor. Undemanding, it grows slowly but surely, and its maintenance remains easy even for beginners. It can reach up to 30 cm in height and is ideally placed in the middle or background zone in nano tanks. It grows well without CO2, although a small contribution can boost its density. A beautiful plant, discreet but full of charm.
Fine, light green foliage for a natural, light effect
Perfect for the intermediate areas of the aquarium
