Java Fern
Microsorum pteropus
Edited by Ivan F. · Reviewed
Beginner verdict
One of the toughest aquarium plants, with long, leathery leaves that thrive in low light and need no special substrate. It grows slowly but survives conditions that kill most plants, and few fish bother it. Attach it to wood or stone, and never bury the rhizome.
- Light
- Low
- CO2
- Not Needed
- Growth
- Slow
- Placement
- Attached to Hardscape
- Max height
- 12 in (30 cm)
- Temperature
- 68–82 °F (20–28 °C)
- pH
- 5–8
- Needs substrate
- No
Java Fern care
How it spreads
Plantlets grow on older leaves and the rhizome can be split. Tie the new piece to wood or stone.
Java Fern care mistakes to avoid
- Never bury the rhizome, because it will rot.
- Do not mistake the black spots under leaves for disease. They are reproductive spores.
- Keep it out of very bright light, which can burn the leaves.
- Expect slow growth, and do not add extra fertilizer to speed it up.
Java Fern setup
LightLow light
Our sources rate Java Fern as a low light plant. These are the lights we chose for a first planted tank.
hygger 18W LED Aquarium Light (18-24 inch) US
NICREW ClassicLED Plus Aquarium Light US
EHEIM classicLED plants 550 mm Spain
EHEIM classicLED daylight 550 mm Spain
Why we chose these (Best Light for a Beginner Planted Tank). Nobody here has used or tested them.
SubstrateAttach it to wood or stone; if planted in the bottom, keep the rhizome uncovered because it rots.
We are still choosing products for this.
Where to buy Java Fern
Stores that list it under the same scientific name as this page. Links marked as affiliate links may earn us a commission. We have not bought from them, so check each store's own terms.
See it at The Shrimp Farm (a retailer; affiliate link)
Live animals and plants travel by courier. Check the store's live-arrival guarantee, and only buy once your tank has cycled (see how to cycle a fish tank).
Some US states restrict certain species. Check our US state aquarium rules table and your state's own rules before you buy.
Java Fern FAQ
How tall does Java Fern grow?
Tropica lists growth to about 30 cm (12 in) in a tank, and it can grow larger over time.
What light does Java Fern need?
Tropica rates its light demand as low. Most standard aquarium lights are enough.
Does java fern need soil?
No. It feeds from the water, so tie or glue the rhizome to wood or stone.
Why is my java fern turning black?
Large black patches usually mean the rhizome is rotting or that the plant lacks nutrients. Check it is not buried, and try a liquid fertilizer.
Java Fern facts and sources
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