Giant Baby Tears (Micranthemum umbrosum) is an intermediate-level aquarium plant. A bright green, small-leaved stem plant that forms a soft bush when planted in groups. It is bigger and easier than dwarf baby tears but still does best with good light, regular trimming and some fertilizer.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Micranthemum umbrosum |
|---|---|
| Family | Linderniaceae |
| Origin | Warm regions of the Americas |
| Height | 4-8 in |
| Light | Medium to high |
| CO2 | Recommended |
| Placement | Midground, planted in small groups |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Temperature | 68-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Quick tips
- Plant in small groups and trim the tops to bush out.
- Strong light and CO2 give the densest growth.
- Keep water clean; it melts if conditions swing.
San Diego water
Captive-bred stock usually adapts to San Diego tap water with slow acclimation. For best color and health, many keepers blend tap with RO/DI water. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
New to planted tanks? Start with our beginner planted tank guide and the plant fertilizer guide.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi