🌿 All About Helanthium tenellum 'Micro' – Growow TC Plant

Helanthium tenellum 'Micro' is a fine-leaved carpeting plant often referred to as a miniature version of pygmy chain sword. Ideal for creating a dense, grass-like lawn, this variety is smaller and finer than regular H. tenellum, making it perfect for nano tanks or foreground aquascaping. Supplied in Growow Tissue Culture (TC) form, it ensures a clean and healthy start, free from pests or algae.

🔍 Quick Overview

• Scientific Name: Helanthium tenellum 'Micro'

• Common Name: Micro Chain Sword

• Family: Alismataceae

• Type: Rosette, carpeting grass plant

• Origin: Cultivar / variant of North American species

🌱 Plant Characteristics

• Height: 2–6 cm

• Leaf Shape: Thin, grass-like blades

• Color: Bright to medium green

• Growth Habit: Horizontal runners form a lush carpet

• Growth Speed: Moderate to fast (with CO₂ and light)

💧 Tank Requirements

• Lighting: Medium to high (strong light for tight carpeting)

• CO₂: Recommended for compact growth and fast spreading

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich soil ideal (or use root tabs)

• Water Parameters:

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Temperature: 20–28°C

  • Hardness: Soft to medium

• Position in Tank: Foreground

🧪 Growow TC Plant Benefits

• Sterile and clean tissue culture – no algae, pests, or hitchhikers

• Safe for shrimp tanks and delicate aquascapes

• Can be divided into small tufts for wide coverage

• Faster establishment and healthier start

🌟 Why Choose H. tenellum 'Micro'?

• Creates a natural grassy carpet look

• Perfect for Iwagumi and Nature-style aquariums

• Requires less trimming than some other carpets like Monte Carlo

• Doesn’t overshadow smaller decorative elements in nano tanks

🧠 Aquascaping Tips

• Plant in small clumps a few centimeters apart

• Regular trimming encourages denser horizontal spreading

• Combine with:

  • Eleocharis acicularis mini (for a mixed grass look)

  • Bucephalandra or Anubias petite on hardscape

  • Midground stems like Rotala bonsai or Staurogyne repens

💡 Pro Tip: Excellent for achieving a natural “meadow” effect — it responds beautifully to sloped substrates and gentle water flow.