Source: Wikimedia Commons
Bog moss
IntermediateMayaca fluviatilis
A moss-like stem plant with very narrow, bright green leaves set spirally and densely on soft, pale stems. It ranges from the south-eastern United States to South America, and its tips quickly turn pale when iron runs short.
About
Bog moss (Mayaca fluviatilis) belongs to Mayacaceae, a family with a single genus. It ranges through the tropics and subtropics from the south-eastern United States through Central America and the Caribbean to South America as far as Argentina, often along blackwater streams, and grows both submersed and emersed. Very narrow, bright green leaves are set spirally and densely on soft, whitish or pale green stems, giving a light, moss-like look; stems can reach about 1 m. It may be confused with other fine-leaved plants such as Rotala sp. 'Nanjenshan' (once sold as 'Mayaca sellowiana'), but Mayaca's leaves are spiral rather than whorled. The species is variable. It prefers soft, slightly acidic water but adapts to moderate hardness. It is an iron indicator: the tips pale quickly when iron runs short and recover once it is supplied, so a balanced nutrient supply matters, along with CO2 and good light. It branches readily and grows fast, so regular pruning is essential. Through the aquatic plant trade it has naturalised in Sri Lanka, Singapore, China and Australia, and fragments as small as 2 cm can regrow. It is sold by specialist shops in Japan.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Bog moss
The Bog moss grows to 15–30 cm or more in aquaria; stems up to about 1 m.
Temperature & humidity for the Bog moss
The ideal temperature for the Bog moss is 23〜25℃.
Basic Info
Origin
South-eastern USA to Central and South America and the Caribbean
Lifespan
Perennial; maintained by replanting cuttings
Size
15–30 cm or more in aquaria; stems up to about 1 m
Temperature
23〜25℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Needs CO2 and fertiliser including iron
Growing Tips
Lighting
Needs medium to strong light.
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 is needed. Pale tips signal iron deficiency; dose an iron-containing liquid fertiliser.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 23–25°C; prefers soft, slightly acidic water (KH 0–6°dKH, pH 4.5–7) but adapts to moderate hardness.
Substrate & Attachment
Plant stems singly with space between them; the stems are soft, so separate bunches before planting.
Trimming & Propagation
Branches and grows fast; prune regularly and replant tops.
Cautions
It has naturalised abroad via the plant trade and regrows from small fragments. Never release plants, or even fragments, into the wild.
Bog moss FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Bog moss?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Bog moss?
The ideal temperature for Bog moss is 23〜25℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Bog moss get?
The mature size of Bog moss is 15–30 cm or more in aquaria; stems up to about 1 m. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Bog moss?
Bog moss: watering & fertilizer — Needs CO2 and fertiliser including iron. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Bog moss?
The price of Bog moss varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 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
Not listed in CITES (no match in Species+). Not regulated under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act or Species Conservation Act. Never dump aquatic plants into rivers, ponds or ditches, or flush them away with tank water. Drain unwanted plants and trimmings and dispose of them as household waste.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: list of Invasive Alien Species (Invasive Alien Species Act)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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