Java Fern

Java Fern is one of the most popular and hardy freshwater aquarium plants, well known for its attractive green leaves, low-maintenance requirements, and ability to thrive in a wide variety of aquarium conditions. Its natural appearance makes it an excellent addition to tropical community tanks, planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, and aquascapes.

Unlike many aquarium plants, Java Fern does not need to be planted into the substrate. It naturally grows attached to driftwood, rocks, and aquarium decorations, making it particularly useful for adding greenery to hardscape areas. Its hardy nature and low lighting requirements make it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.

• Common Name: Java Fern
• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus
• Plant Type: Rhizome plant
• Placement: Foreground to background depending on size
• Care Level: Easy
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Lighting: Low to moderate
• Temperature: Approximately 20–28°C
• pH: Approximately 6.0–8.0
• CO₂: Not required
• Fertilisation: Light liquid fertilisation beneficial
• Suitable For: Freshwater and planted aquariums
• Propagation: Rhizome division and plantlets
• Ideal For: Community tanks, shrimp tanks, Betta aquariums and aquascapes

Planting & Maintenance

Java Fern should be attached to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium decorations rather than having its rhizome buried deeply in the substrate. The thick horizontal rhizome should remain exposed to the water, as burying it can cause the plant to rot.

The plant can be secured using fishing line, cotton thread, or a small amount of aquarium-safe glue until its roots naturally attach to the chosen surface.

Java Fern generally performs well under low to moderate lighting. Remove old, damaged, or deteriorating leaves near the rhizome when required to maintain a healthy appearance.

Propagation

Java Fern is easy to propagate. Mature plants may produce small plantlets on the tips or surfaces of older leaves. These plantlets gradually develop their own leaves and roots before eventually separating from the parent plant.

Larger established plants can also be propagated by carefully dividing the rhizome, ensuring each section has healthy leaves and roots attached.

Aquascaping Ideas

Attach Java Fern to driftwood or aquarium rocks to create natural-looking planted features. It works particularly well alongside Anubias, Java Moss, Cryptocoryne, and other low-maintenance aquarium plants.

Its broad leaves provide valuable shelter, resting areas, and visual cover for shrimp, Bettas, fry, and smaller community fish.

Shipping

• Australia-wide shipping available where permitted
• Live plants are carefully packed to maintain quality during transport
• Local pickup available by appointment from Fins 'N' Feathers
• Shipping may be delayed during extreme weather conditions to protect plant quality
• Biosecurity restrictions may apply to some destinations

Live Arrival

Please inspect your plant immediately upon arrival. Minor leaf damage, colour changes, or temporary deterioration can occur during transport and while the plant adjusts to new aquarium conditions.

If there is an issue with your order, please contact us as soon as possible in accordance with our live arrival policy and provide clear photos of the plant and packaging.

Actual plant size, leaf shape, number of leaves, and colour may vary due to natural variation and growing conditions.