🌿 Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) – Live Aquarium Plant
Bring natural beauty and lush greenery to your aquarium with Java Fern! This hardy plant thrives in a wide range of conditions and is perfect for all experience levels.

✔ Hardy and low-maintenance
✔ Grows on wood or rock (no substrate needed)
✔ Ideal for shrimp and fry tanks
✔ Great for low-tech or high-tech aquariums

Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) is a popular choice for aquascaping thanks to its striking, textured leaves and adaptability. Unlike many plants, it does not require planting in substrate. Instead, it grows beautifully when attached to driftwood or rocks, making it a versatile addition to any setup. Its slow growth rate helps minimize maintenance while still providing lush coverage and natural hiding spots for fish and invertebrates.

📦 Shipped in Pot for Healthy Roots
Your Java Fern arrives in a plastic nursery pot with rock wool. This protects the delicate root system during shipping and keeps the plant hydrated until planting. For best results, remove the pot and rock wool before adding the plant to your aquarium.

✅ Care Guide

• Light: Low to Medium

• CO₂: Not required (but can enhance growth)

• Placement: Midground to Background, attach to driftwood or rocks

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Difficulty: Easy

📋 Specifications

• Family: Polypodiaceae

• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus

• Origin: Southeast Asia

• Height: 8–14 inches

• Temperature: 68–82°F

• pH: 6.0–7.5

🌱 Planting Guide

1. Carefully remove the Java Fern from its plastic pot and rock wool. Leaving it in the pot can restrict root growth and trap debris.

2. Rinse roots gently in dechlorinated water to remove any remaining rock wool.

3. Important: Do not bury the rhizome in substrate, as this can cause rot.

4. Attach the rhizome to driftwood, rocks, or other decorations using fishing line or aquarium-safe glue.

5. Maintain stable water parameters and enjoy lush, healthy growth!

🌿 Quick Plant FAQs

Are live plants hard to keep?
Nope! Many are beginner-friendly. Try Java Fern, Anubias, or Crypts for easy care.

Do I need special lights?
Most plants do great with standard lights. Red plants may need stronger lighting.

Can I leave the plant in the pot?
For best growth, gently remove from the pot and plant in substrate—or tie to rocks/driftwood.

Will plants bring snails or pests?
Sometimes live plants carry tiny snails. Rinse before adding or choose tissue culture plants (pest-free!).

Do I need fertilizer or CO2?
Not always. But they help plants grow faster and look brighter.

Are plants safe for fish & shrimp?
Absolutely! They provide shelter and improve water quality.