Java Fern 'Mini'

Java Fern 'Mini' (Microsorum pteropus 'Mini') is a miniaturised cultivar that stays under 10 cm in height, making it one of the few true epiphytic ferns suitable for nano aquariums of 10–30 litres. Its leaves are proportionally similar to the standard form but significantly smaller, producing a charming, detailed appearance on small pieces of driftwood or on stones in a nano scape.

Despite its small size, 'Mini' shares all the famous resilience of Java Fern: it grows from a rhizome that should never be buried, adapts to virtually any water chemistry, and requires no CO2 or high light to thrive. It is one of the best plants for beginner nano tank setups and is also popular in shrimp breeding tanks where it provides shelter without overwhelming the space.

Propagation is straightforward — leaf-margin plantlets appear regularly and can be removed and reattached once they reach 2–3 cm. The plant can also be used to cover small areas of substrate by pinning the rhizome with a stone.

Light: Low; 10–30 µmol PAR is sufficient — making this one of the lowest-light plants available. CO2: Not required; ideal for low-tech nano setups. Fertilisation: Small weekly doses of liquid fertiliser maintain healthy growth in the confined water volume of nano tanks. Placement: Attach to small pieces of wood or stone in fore- to midground; ideal for nano tanks under 30 L. Propagation: Remove leaf-margin plantlets at 2–3 cm and secure to new surfaces with thread or gel glue.