Source: Wikimedia Commons
Hemianthus callitrichoides
AdvancedHemianthus callitrichoides
One of the worlds smallest aquatic plants. Tiny leaves create a dense beautiful green carpet. Advanced foreground plant.
Overview
Hemianthus callitrichoides — commonly abbreviated 'HC' and known in the trade as 'Cuba' — is a semi-aquatic plant in the family Linderniaceae endemic to the West Indies, with native populations on the Bahamas, Cuba, Hispaniola, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico. Among the smallest flowering plants on Earth, individual leaves measure approximately 1 mm in diameter. In aquascaping it is revered as the ultimate foreground carpeting species: its micro-leaves interlace to form a seamless green lawn of extraordinary density, a centerpiece of international-level competition layouts. High light and pressurized CO2 injection are absolute requirements — without both, the carpet progressively deteriorates. Establishing the initial carpet is the most challenging phase, demanding careful attention to temperature stability and balanced fertilization. Its combination of supreme beauty and technical difficulty makes it the pinnacle of foreground plant cultivation.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Hemianthus callitrichoides
The Hemianthus callitrichoides grows to 1-3cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Hemianthus callitrichoides
The ideal temperature for the Hemianthus callitrichoides is 22〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
West Indies (The Bahamas, Cuba, Hispaniola, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico)
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
1-3cm
Temperature
22〜26℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Root tabs, CO2
Growing Tips
Lighting
High light is essential. It gradually declines without enough light, so provide lighting that fully reaches the foreground.
CO2 & Fertilizer
Pressurised CO2 injection is essential. Rely mainly on substrate fertiliser and manage feeding carefully to keep a dense carpet.
Substrate & Attachment
Use a fine-grained soil and plant small portions one at a time carefully with tweezers. Getting it rooted is the hardest part.
Water Temperature & Quality
A water temperature of 22-26°C is suitable. Temperature control matters too, as it tends to decline when the water gets warm.
Notes
Tends to float — patience needed until rooted
Hemianthus callitrichoides FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Hemianthus callitrichoides?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Hemianthus callitrichoides?
The ideal temperature for Hemianthus callitrichoides is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Hemianthus callitrichoides get?
The mature size of Hemianthus callitrichoides is 1-3cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Hemianthus callitrichoides?
Hemianthus callitrichoides: watering & fertilizer — Root tabs, CO2. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Hemianthus callitrichoides?
The price of Hemianthus callitrichoides varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Sources: Ministry of the Environment Designated Invasive Species List (Invasive Species Act) / CITES Appendix II listed plant taxa (family and genus level)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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