Java Fern Narrow-Leaf

The Plant
Narrow-Leaf Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow') has long, slim, pointed leaves that give a finer look than standard java fern. The species is native to Malaysia, Thailand, India and China. It is very hardy, beginner friendly and safe around some cichlids that wreck softer plants. Plants usually ship 6 to 12 inches tall with 4 to 8 leaves.

Plant Care
Type: Rhizome fern · Origin: Malaysia, Thailand, India, China · Growth: Slow · Height: Up to 13 in · Light: Low · CO2: Not required · Temp: 67-84°F · pH: 6.3-7.8

Planting Tips
Tie or glue it to wood or rock; it does not feed from the substrate, and a buried rhizome rots. Fine for tanks of 10 gallons and up.

Why Shrimp Keepers Like It
Java fern is about as hard to kill as plants get. Shrimp graze biofilm off every leaf, and the base of a mounted fern makes a favorite hiding spot.

Photos © AquaticMotiv, used with credit.

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