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Microsorum pteropus, commonly known as Java Fern, is one of the most popular and versatile aquarium plants. Native to Southeast Asia, it is prized for its hardy nature, attractive, leathery green leaves, and ease of care. Java Fern can be grown fully submerged or emersed, and it thrives when attached to hardscape elements such as driftwood, rocks, or decorative ornaments, rather than being buried in substrate.
Its slow-growing, upright, and flowing leaves create a natural and dynamic look in both beginner and advanced aquascapes. Java Fern tolerates a wide range of water conditions, including varying pH and hardness, making it ideal for low-tech tanks, community setups, and low-light aquariums. The plant propagates easily through rhizome division or by producing small “plantlets” along mature leaves. It is resistant to most aquarium pests and provides excellent shelter for small fish and shrimp.
Type: Rhizome fern
Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus
Common Name: Java Fern
Family: Polypodiaceae
Origin: Southeast Asia
Position: Mid-ground to Background (attached to hardscape)
Light: Low to Medium
CO₂: Not required
Growth Rate: Slow
Difficulty: Easy
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Temperature: 20 – 28 °C
Substrate: Not required (rhizome must remain above substrate)
Propagation: Rhizome division / plantlets
Height: 10 – 25 cm
