Here’s all about Java Fern 'Needle Leaf' — a beautiful and compact variant of the classic Java Fern ideal for aquascaping:

🌿 Java Fern ‘Needle Leaf’ Overview

• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus ‘Needle Leaf’

• Common Name: Needle Leaf Java Fern

• Family: Polypodiaceae

• Origin: Cultivar (possibly bred from Southeast Asian species)

• Growth Type: Rhizome-based epiphyte

✅ Key Features

• Leaf Shape: Very narrow, thin, straight, needle-like leaves

• Leaf Size: 5–15 cm long, 0.3–0.6 cm wide

• Plant Height: 10–20 cm depending on conditions

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Appearance: Compact and bushy; delicate yet hardy look

• Texture: Slightly rigid, deep green leaves

💡 Ideal Aquarium Conditions

🪵 How to Grow It

• Don’t bury the rhizome! Attach it to hardscape like:

  • Driftwood

  • Lava rocks

  • Aquarium ornaments

• Use thread, fishing line, or super glue gel to fix it in place.

• Over time, the roots will naturally grip the surface.

🔁 Propagation

• Adventitious Plantlets: Tiny new plants appear on older leaves.

• Rhizome Division: Cut a portion of the rhizome with several leaves and roots.

🐠 Compatibility & Uses

• Great for: Nano tanks, shrimp tanks, nature-style aquascapes

• Safe with: Goldfish, bettas, cichlids, community fish

• Use in Aquascaping: Midground or foreground for nano tanks; tied to small wood pieces or stones for layering

💚 Care Tips

• Clean algae gently with a soft brush.

• Trim dead or old leaves near the base.

• Don’t overexpose to strong light – can lead to algae issues.

• Liquid fertilizers boost growth, especially potassium and micronutrients.

⚠️ Common Issues

🌱 Why Choose Needle Leaf Java Fern?

• ✅ Perfect for nano tanks and fine-detail scaping

• ✅ Hardy and beginner-friendly

• ✅ Doesn't need substrate

• ✅ Grows in low-light conditions

• ✅ Beautiful, refined leaf shape for a delicate look

Would you like an image or care sheet template of Java Fern ‘Needle Leaf’ on rock or wood?