Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) is one of the most durable and beginner-friendly freshwater aquarium plants available. This large, hardy rhizome plant features deep green, textured leaves and thrives in low-tech tanks with minimal care. Its ability to attach to driftwood, rocks, or décor makes it a versatile choice for natural aquascapes and community aquariums.
What You Will Receive
• Quantity: 1 Plant • Size: 5-8 Inches • Growth Form: Rhizome plant (may include attached mat portion) • Farm-grown in the USA
Plants are hand-selected and may vary slightly in size and leaf shape due to natural growth patterns.
Key Features
• Extremely hardy and beginner-friendly • Thrives in low to moderate lighting • Slow, manageable growth rate • Attaches easily to wood, rock, or décor • Safe for fish, shrimp, and snails • No CO₂ required • Ideal for low-tech aquariums
Benefits
• Adds natural texture and depth to aquascapes • Provides shelter and grazing surfaces for shrimp and fish • Helps support biological balance in planted tanks • Low maintenance with minimal trimming required • Perfect for community and nano aquariums
Product Specifications
• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus • Common Name: Java Fern • Plant Type: Rhizome plant • Placement: Midground to background • Lighting: Low to moderate • Growth Rate: Slow • CO₂ Requirement: Not required • Difficulty Level: Beginner • Water Type: Freshwater • Temperature Range: Tropical (68-82°F)
Planting Instructions
Do not bury the rhizome in substrate. Attach the plant to driftwood, rocks, or décor using thread or aquarium-safe glue. Allow roots to naturally anchor over time. Trim older leaves as needed to encourage new growth.
Propagation is simple-divide the rhizome and reattach the new section.
Care Guide Lighting
Low to moderate lighting is ideal. High light is not required. Water Parameters Tolerates a wide range of freshwater conditions with stable parameters. Fertilization Optional liquid fertilizer may improve growth but is not required. Maintenance Minimal. Remove older leaves occasionally to maintain appearance.
Perfect For
• Beginner aquarists • Low-tech planted tanks • Shrimp and community aquariums • Natural driftwood or rock layouts • Midground and background planting
Important Notes
• Plants are a natural product and will vary in size and shape • Rhizome must remain above substrate to prevent rot • Plants may require an adjustment period after shipping • Photos are for reference only
We carefully inspect and prepare all plants before shipment and ensure they are pest-free at the time of packing. However, because live aquarium plants are natural products, occasional hitchhikers such as bladder snails or other microorganisms may appear after transit or acclimation, which is beyond our control.