Java Fern 'Windeløv'

Java Fern 'Windeløv' (Microsorum pteropus 'Windeløv') was developed by the Danish Tropica nursery and named after its founder Holger Windeløv. Its most distinctive feature is the leaf tip, which divides repeatedly into a crown of fine, fern-like projections that create a delicate lace effect quite unlike any other Java Fern variety. The plant shares all the hardiness of the standard form but delivers far greater visual complexity.

Like all Java Ferns, 'Windeløv' is a rhizome plant that must be attached to hardscape rather than planted in substrate. It grows slowly but steadily, producing offset rhizomes and margin plantlets that can be detached and repositioned. The intricate leaf tips are especially striking when viewed from the front of the tank under moderate lighting.

This cultivar is a perfect choice for aquarists seeking an elegant, low-maintenance epiphyte. It is equally at home in a Dutch-style layout as a textural accent, or in a nature aquascape draped over driftwood in a shaded position.

Light: Low to medium; 20–50 µmol PAR; avoid excessive light which can bleach the delicate leaf tips. CO2: Not required; optional CO2 injection will accelerate growth but is not necessary. Fertilisation: Liquid micronutrients weekly; the plant absorbs nutrients directly through the water column. Placement: Tie or super-glue rhizome to driftwood or stone; position in midground for best viewing of the lace tips. Propagation: Detach adventitious plantlets from leaf margins when they have 3–4 leaves and reattach to fresh hardscape.