Dennerle Microsorum Pteropus 'Narrow Leaf'

Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow Leaf' is a cultivated variety of the common Java Fern, featuring narrower, more elongated, and pointed leaves compared to the broad, paddle-shaped leaves of the standard form. Native to tropical Asia, Java Fern in all its forms is one of the most widely kept aquarium plants due to its exceptional hardiness, low light tolerance, and ease of care.

The 'Narrow Leaf' variety shares all the positive traits of standard Java Fern while offering a more delicate, refined visual appearance. The slender leaves create an elegant, flowing texture when attached to driftwood branches, creating a look reminiscent of aquatic willow fronds. It is particularly effective in planted aquariums where a lighter, more delicate look is desired compared to standard Java Fern.

Like all Java Fern varieties, 'Narrow Leaf' is a rhizome plant that must be attached to hardscape rather than buried in substrate. Burying the rhizome causes rot. It is a slow grower that produces daughter plants on the margins of older leaves — these can be detached and attached elsewhere once they develop small roots.

Dennerle produces this as a tissue culture variant for clean, contamination-free introduction.

Light: Low to medium light (5–30 PAR). One of the most shade-tolerant aquarium plants. Thrives under minimal light. Avoid very strong direct light which can cause black spots on leaves.

CO2: Not required. One of the best plants for low-tech, no-CO2 setups.

Attachment: Never bury the rhizome — it will rot. Attach to driftwood or rocks using fishing line, thread, or aquatic glue. Roots grip porous surfaces over 4–6 weeks.

Propagation: New plants develop on margins of older leaves. Detach plantlets once 3–4 small leaves have formed and they have small root nubs.

Maintenance: Very low maintenance. Remove yellowing leaves. No fertilization specifically required though liquid micro nutrients support leaf health.

Water Parameters: pH 6.0–8.0, temperature 18–30°C. Very adaptable.