🌿 Microsorum pteropus ‘Petite’ – Compact Java Fern with Refined Miniature Leaves

Microsorum pteropus 'Petite', commonly known as Java Fern Petite, is a dwarf variety of the classic Java Fern, highly prized for its compact size and smaller, narrow leaves. This cultivar is perfect for nano tanks, foreground placements, or aquascapes where space and precision matter. Despite its smaller stature, it maintains the hardy, undemanding nature that makes all Java Ferns ideal for beginners and advanced hobbyists alike.

At Aquarium Plants Factory, we grow Java Fern Petite emersed, allowing for strong, adaptable rhizomes that transition smoothly into submerged aquarium environments. Once established, its lush green fronds add texture and depth without overpowering the layout, making it a top choice for intricate aquascapes, shrimp tanks, and nature-style layouts.

Like all Microsorum varieties, this plant must be attached to driftwood, rocks, or other aquarium décor, as burying the rhizome in substrate can lead to rot. It thrives in low- to medium-light environments and requires no CO₂, making it an excellent choice for low-tech setups.

🌟 Key Features:

• Miniature Growth Habit: One of the smallest Java Fern varieties; ideal for nano aquascapes

• Narrow, Upright Leaves: Clean, compact appearance adds structure and elegance

• Attachable Rhizome Plant: Mounts easily to wood, stone, or decorations—no planting required

• Low-Tech Friendly: Thrives without CO₂ in low to medium light conditions

• Slow Growth Rate: Minimal trimming required; easy to maintain

🔎 Botanical Information:

• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus ‘Petite’

• Synonyms: Leptochilus pteropus ‘Petite’

• Common Names: Java Fern Petite

• Plant Type: Rhizome plant

• Placement: Attach to driftwood, stone, or hardscape

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Lighting: Low to Medium

• Origin: Southeast Asia

💡 Optimal Growing Conditions:

• Lighting: Low to medium light is ideal to maintain compact form

• CO₂ & Fertilization: Not required; optional fertilization supports steady growth

• Water Parameters:

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)

  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🌱 Growth & Propagation:

• CO₂ Requirement: Not required

• Nutrient Substrate: Not required

• Can Grow Emersed: Yes

• Propagation Method: Rhizome division

📦 What You’ll Receive:

Sold as loose bare-root plants, bunched plants, or potted plants:

• Bare-root Plants: Approximately 6+ leaf portion, loose rhizome

• Bunched Plants: Approximately 6+ leaf portion bundled with foam and plant weight

• Potted Plants: Approximately 6+ leaf portion, potted in rockwool and net pot

⚠️ Disclaimer:

Photos are sample representations. Actual plants may vary in size, shape, or coloration. Unless otherwise specified, we do not guarantee plants are free of pests, pesticides, or exclusively submerged-grown.

🚫 State Restrictions Notice ♻️ Be a Responsible Aquatic Plants Owner

Never release Java Fern Petite—or any aquarium plant—into natural waterways. Always dispose of trimmings and unwanted portions responsibly to protect local ecosystems.