Tropica In Vitro 1-2-grow! Hemianthus callitrichoides ‘Cuba’
Hemianthus callitrichoides is one of the smallest aquarium plants in the world, and creeps over the bottom with millimetre-sized, round leaves. It is an attractive and popular foreground plant for small aquariums.
It is not a difficult plant, but it requires good conditions such as enough light, added CO2, water circulation, and fertilizer to thrive. If these conditions are hard to create, Micranthemum ‘Monte-Carlo’ can be used as an alternative, as it is less demanding.
Small pearls or bubbles of oxygen are often produced on top of the plants, adding a very lively aspect to the carpet.
If planted in small clumps a few centimetres apart, it will spread rapidly and cover the bottom like a carpet.
| Plant Type | Foreground aquarium plant |
|---|---|
| Size | Millimetre-sized round leaves |
| Light Requirement | High light intensity |
| CO2 Requirement | Recommended with added CO2 |
| Water Flow | Good water circulation required |
| Fertilizer | Regular liquid fertilizer needed |
FAQ
What are the ideal lighting conditions for Hemianthus callitrichoides ‘Cuba’?
This plant requires high light intensity to thrive. It should be placed in an area with strong, consistent lighting, such as a well-lit aquarium with a high-light LED or fluorescent setup.
Can this plant grow well in low-light environments?
No, Hemianthus callitrichoides ‘Cuba’ does not grow well in low-light conditions. It requires sufficient light to maintain healthy growth and spread.
Is CO2 necessary for this plant?
Added CO2 is recommended for optimal growth. Without CO2, growth may be slow and the plant may not spread as expected.
Cameron Dyer –
I planted this in a 10-gallon tank with high light and CO2. The plant spread quickly and created a beautiful carpet on the bottom. The tiny leaves are very attractive and the oxygen bubbles add a lively touch. Only needed regular liquid fertilizer to keep it healthy.
Brian Clarkson –
It’s a small plant, but it fills the bottom nicely when planted in clumps. I had to adjust the lighting and add CO2, but it’s worth it for the visual effect. The oxygen bubbles are a nice bonus.
Victoria Payne –
Grew well in a well-lit tank with moderate CO2. The spread was slower than expected, and I had to reposition the plants every few weeks. Still, it looks good as a foreground carpet.