Hemianthus micranthemoides

Hemianthus micranthemoides hails from the eastern United States and Cuba, growing naturally along wet sandy shores and in shallow water. Its small, round to oval leaves are arranged in whorls of three or four on slender stems, giving it a fine, almost moss-like texture that softens hardscape edges. Under medium to high light with CO2 supplementation it branches freely, creating a bushy, low-profile mass that fills foreground spaces beautifully.

Light: Medium to high (40–70 PAR); lower light causes etiolation and stem elongation. CO2: Beneficial; injection improves compactness and growth rate significantly. Planting: Plant stems in groups of 5–7, 1–2 cm apart; trim tops to encourage lateral branching from the base. Maintenance: Trim every 2–3 weeks; replant healthy top cuttings to keep the carpet dense. Note: Tolerates soft, slightly acidic water best; avoid hard alkaline conditions.