Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' on Mesh

Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' is a distinctive Java fern cultivar prized for its compact form, firm green leaves, and strongly pronounced leaf veins. This specimen comes pre-attached to mesh, making it easy to place directly on the substrate or integrate into rockwork and driftwood. Its textured foliage creates an attractive midground accent and provides natural cover for shrimp and small fish.

Care Guide

• Care level: Easy
• Growth rate: Slow to moderate
• Placement: Midground or background
• Lighting: Low to moderate
• CO₂: Optional; supplemental CO₂ can support fuller growth
• Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
• pH: 5.5–8.0
• Propagation: Rhizome division or plantlets that develop on mature leaves

Planting Instructions

Place the mesh on top of the substrate or secure it against hardscape. Keep the plant's rhizome exposed and avoid burying it, as a buried rhizome may rot. This cultivar feeds primarily through the water column and benefits from regular liquid fertilization. Moderate water movement helps keep the leaves clean and healthy.

Beginner friendly: Its adaptable nature, modest lighting requirements, and lack of mandatory CO₂ make it an excellent choice for low-tech planted aquariums.

Live plants naturally vary in size, shape, and coloration. The plant received may differ slightly from the representative photo.