Microsorum pteropus "Needle Leaf", or Needle Leaf Java Fern, is a narrow-leaved form of the classic Java fern. Its slender, pointed leaves grow in fine tufts and give a soft, flowing texture that contrasts beautifully with broader-leaved plants and driftwood. As an epiphyte it sits above the substrate, attached to hardscape, so it works well through the midground and can be lifted or repositioned without disturbing your layout.This is one of the easiest plants to keep. It grows from a rhizome that should never be buried, so tie or glue it to wood, rock or mesh and let the roots grip on their own. It thrives in low light without added CO2, and older leaves often sprout tiny plantlets you can detach and attach elsewhere to spread it further. Highly adaptable across water parameters of 20 to 28C and pH 6.0 to 7.5, it is a reliable choice for low-tech, community and nature-style tanks.Care at a glance Placement: Midground, attached to hardscape Lighting: Low CO2: Low, not required Growth rate: Slow Difficulty: Beginner Colour: Green Harvested fresh and algae free, with conversion to its submerged form already started in our grow-out tanks to maximise success once it settles into your aquascape. Submerged means grown fully underwater, the form your plant lives in day to day inside the aquarium. Emersed means grown with leaves above the waterline, as many plants are farmed, so a little natural adjustment as it adapts to submerged life is normal.
