Java Fern – potted

The Java Fern (Leptochilus pteropus) is an iconic, slow-growing aquatic plant known for its long, leathery, dark-green fronds. Reaching a height of 15–35 cm , it is the ultimate “low-maintenance” plant. Native to the riverbanks of Southeast Asia, they are unique because they grow best when attached to surfaces like driftwood or rocks rather than being planted in the soil.

Avoid burying them in the substrate, use aquarium-safe glue or fishing line to anchor them to your hardscape. They can handle a very wide pH range of 6.0–8.0 and are incredibly adaptable to various water hardness levels. They are perfect for tanks without high-end lighting systems, and they will even thrive in shaded areas where other plants might wither.

Avoid burying the rhizome,  this is the most common reason for the plant to rot. Since they absorb their nutrients directly from the water column through their leaves and roots, they benefit greatly from the addition of a liquid fertilizer.