Java Fern Needle Leaf

Common Name: Java Fern Needle Leaf, Microsorum Pteropus Needle Leaf

Java Fern Needle Leaf is a highly sought-after rarity in the aquarium hobby. This is because the needle leaf variant is unique with thin, slender leaves that grow no wider than half an inch wide. The leaves of this variety are the thinnest within the Java Fern family, even more so than the Java Fern Narrow Leaf variety. It is a popular background plant or focal point plant because the leaves will easily fill the space and create a mesmerizing effect in any planted aquarium.

Java fern is one of the most popular aquarium plants in the hobby due to its beauty and easy care. They can grow in low light conditions and a wide range of water parameters. The plant can be attached directly onto driftwood, rocks or any aquarium decoration using thread or glue. Make sure to keep the rhizomes above your substrate or the plant can begin to rot. Propagation is easy and straightforward; simply cut or pull apart rhizomes to be replanted. 

Notes:

• Java Fern is an epiphytic aquarium plant. This means it can grow fine when attached to aquascaping hardscape like driftwood and stones.
• Java Fern will propagate through its leaves. Dots on the underside of its leaves are normal and not a cause for concern.
• Do not make drastic changes to the aquarium. Unstable parameters will result in melt and rotting of the aquarium plant.
• Remove the cotton surrounding the roots and plant above a quality substrate. For instructions on how to properly prep aquarium plants, click here.
• Burying the rhizome will cause the plant to die.
• CO2 injection will yield better growth.
• Please research appropriately to ensure your plant thrives.

Family Name: Polypodiaceae

Origin: Indonesia

Height: 5-12”

pH: 6-7.5

Care: Easy

Light: Low

CO2: Not Required

Propagation: Separate by Rhizome

Growth rate: Slow to Moderate