Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) is a beginner-level aquarium plant. A tough, shade-tolerant fern that grows attached to wood or rock. Do not bury the rhizome, or it will rot.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Microsorum pteropus |
|---|---|
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Height | 6-14 in |
| Light | Low |
| CO2 | Not required |
| Placement | Attach to wood or rock |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Temperature | 68-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Propagation | Rhizome division, plantlets on old leaves |
Quick tips
- Tie or glue onto hardscape; do not plant in substrate.
- Black spots on old leaves are normal.
- Thrives in low light, great for beginners.
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