Slender Willow Moss

Fontinalis gracilis is a slender North American relative of F. antipyretica, distinguished by its thinner stems and more delicate leaf arrangement. It inhabits cool, shaded streams and pools and requires lower temperatures than most tropical aquarium plants. Its soft, fine-textured growth makes it an excellent companion species in temperate biotope tanks alongside native fish species.

Light: low light; shaded positions closest to natural habitat preference. CO2: not required; performs best in cool, oxygen-saturated water. Attachment: drape loosely over driftwood or tie with wide cotton thread. Trimming: thin overcrowded sections gently; maintain good flow through the mass to prevent anaerobic pockets. Growth: moderate in cool water; slows significantly above 22°C.