Asian Water Fern / Bamboo Fern

Aquarium Plants

Retail Price

Regular PriceR80,00

Wholesale PriceR80,00
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The Asian Water Fern (Bolbitis heteroclita), also known as the Bamboo Fern, is an elegant plant with translucent, serrated fronds. Reaching an aquatic height of 15–25 cm, it is a fantastic choice for midground placements. Native to the humid, shaded riverbanks of Southeast Asia, this slow-growing fern is perfect for low-maintenance setups and “nature-style” aquariums that mimic a wild, overgrown riverbed.

When placing this fern, we suggest anchoring it to driftwood or porous rock using aquarium-safe glue or dark thread. It is quite adaptable to water parameters, preferring a pH range of 6.0–7.5 and moderate water hardness. Because it is exceptionally slow-growing, it does not require CO_2 injection to stay healthy, though it does appreciate a stable environment and a consistent photoperiod of low-to-moderate light to prevent algae from settling on the sturdy leaves.

Avoid burying the rhizome in the substrate, as this will lead to rot and the eventual death of the plant. Let its dark, “hairy” roots naturally wrap around your hardscape over time. Since it absorbs the majority of its nutrients directly from the water column, it flourishes with the regular addition of a liquid fertilizer. Its favourite spot in the tank is a shaded corner with gentle water flow, providing a permanent and structural sanctuary for small fish and shrimp to explore.

Scientific Name Bolbitis heteroclita
Family Dryopteridaceae
Origin Southeast Asia
Growth Rate Very slow
Placement Midground / Background
Height 15–25 cm
Light Demand Low to moderate
CO2 Demand Low
Propagation Rhizome division
Difficulty Easy to moderate
pH 6.0–7.5
Temperature 22–28°C

Quick Care Tips

  • Substrate & Nutrition: This species features a creeping rhizome that must never be buried in the substrate. It is best attached to driftwood, lava rock, or porous ornaments. As a water-column feeder, it thrives on liquid fertilisers rather than root-based nutrition.
  • Placement & Lighting: Bolbitis heteroclita is highly adaptable but prefers shady areas or diffused lighting. In high-intensity light setups, it is prone to algae growth on its slow-growing leaves. It makes a fantastic textured midground accent.
  • Propagation & Pruning: To propagate, use sharp scissors to cut the horizontal rhizome into sections, ensuring each piece has at least 2–3 healthy leaves. Because it grows very slowly, pruning is rarely needed except to remove older or damaged fronds at the base.

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