Pearl Weed (Micranthemum umbrosum) is an intermediate-level aquarium plant. A bright green stem plant with small round leaves that forms a dense, bushy patch when trimmed. Under strong light it sprinkles the leaves with tiny oxygen bubbles, the effect that gives it its name.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Micranthemum umbrosum |
|---|---|
| Family | Linderniaceae |
| Origin | Central and South America |
| Height | 4-12 in |
| Light | Medium to high |
| CO2 | Helpful |
| Placement | Foreground to midground, stem plant |
| Growth rate | Moderate to fast |
| Temperature | 68-82°F |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Quick tips
- Plant it in small clumps and trim often.
- Give it strong light and some fertilizer for dense growth.
- It is not dwarf baby tears; the two are different plants.
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