Microsorum pteropus - Java fern

Java fern is one of those rare aquarium plants that genuinely thrives on neglect. It attaches directly to wood or rock — no substrate planting needed — making it one of the most versatile and forgiving plants in the hobby. Simply tie or glue the rhizome to a piece of driftwood or stone, and it will slowly anchor itself and grow from there.

Its distinctive lance-shaped, deep-green wavy leaves grow at a slow to moderate pace, giving the plant a natural, established look that suits almost any aquarium style — from simple community tanks to detailed aquascapes. It tolerates low to medium light without CO2 injection and adapts to a very wide range of water conditions, including harder water.

Once settled, Java fern is extremely long-lived and largely self-maintaining. New plantlets form naturally on the leaf tips and can be left to develop or detached and repositioned once they have a few roots.

• Position: Attach to wood or rock (never bury the rhizome)
• Light: Low to medium — no CO2 required
• Water: Adaptable, including harder water
• Tank size: 30 litres and above
• Origin: Southeast Asia

Supplied as an established potted plant. Remove from the pot and rockwool before attaching to hardscape.