Source: Wikimedia Commons
Java Fern
BeginnerLeptochilus pteropus
A fern aquatic plant from Southeast Asia. Attaches to driftwood and rocks, popular for its unique leaf shape.
About
Microsorum pteropus, now botanically reclassified as Leptochilus pteropus, is a highly variable epiphytic fern native to Malaysia, Thailand, northeastern India, and parts of southern China, where it grows attached to riparian roots and rocks in and alongside streams. Under the trade name 'Java fern,' it has become one of the most universally used aquarium plants worldwide. Its thick, glossy, dark-green fronds provide a mature, substantial quality to compositions built around driftwood. The rhizome must be attached to hardscape — burying it causes rot — and the plant demands neither strong light nor CO2, making it accessible to complete novices. Propagation is distinctive: adventitious plantlets develop spontaneously on the tips and undersides of mature leaves, rooting and floating free to colonize nearby surfaces. Several distinct leaf-form varieties — narrow-leaf, trident, and needle-leaf among them — offer diverse aesthetic options.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Java Fern
The Java Fern grows to 10-30cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Thailand, northeastern India, and southern China)
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
10-30cm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer
Growing Tips
Housing
Attach to wood or rock (do not bury in gravel)
Lighting
Excellent shade tolerance lets it grow in low light, even in dim spots such as the shadow of driftwood.
CO2 & Fertilizer
No CO2 is needed. As an epiphyte it takes nutrients mainly from liquid fertilizer rather than substrate fertilizer, and light dosing is enough.
Trimming & Propagation
Plantlets form on the tips and undersides of mature leaves. Once grown, detach them and attach to wood or rock to propagate.
Cautions
Because it grows slowly, algae tends to settle on the leaves. Cut old or damaged leaves at the base and keep algae under control.
Java Fern FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Java Fern?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Java Fern get?
The mature size of Java Fern is 10-30cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Java Fern?
Java Fern: watering & fertilizer — Liquid fertilizer. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Java Fern?
The price of Java Fern varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: August 31, 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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