Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow'

Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow' is a cultivar selected for fronds that are noticeably narrower and more tapered than the standard Java fern, producing a lanceolate to linear silhouette with an elegant, pointed apex. The fronds are mid-to-deep green with a smooth, slightly leathery texture and reach 20–30 cm in mature specimens. Compared to 'Needle Leaf', the fronds retain more width, giving the plant a graceful rather than thread-like appearance.

This cultivar is versatile and easy to place in a wide variety of aquascape styles — it pairs well with broader-leaved Anubias, Bolbitis, and Bucephalandra as a textural foil, and works equally well as a standalone specimen in nature-style layouts. All Java fern care rules apply: attach the rhizome to hardscape, never bury it; provide low-to-medium light; grow without CO2 if desired. Regular liquid fertilisation helps maintain the rich green frond colour. Adventitious plantlets form on mature frond undersides for easy propagation.

Light: Low to medium; the narrow fronds tolerate a broad range of light intensities without significant algae issues. CO2: Not required; grows steadily at typical aquarium CO2 levels without supplementation. Fertilisation: Monthly liquid micronutrient dosing; iron helps maintain the characteristic mid-to-deep green frond colour. Placement: Attach to driftwood or rocks in midground positions; the narrow fronds display best at eye level from the front. Propagation: Collect adventitious plantlets from mature frond undersides once they develop 3–4 leaves; re-attach to hardscape.