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Microsorum Trident (Leptochilus pteropus 'Trident')

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Microsorum Trident

Beginner

Leptochilus pteropus 'Trident'

A microsorum with distinctive trident-shaped thin leaves. Delicate look suits small tanks too.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
20〜28℃
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
10-25cm

About

Microsorum sp. 'Trident' is a fern aquatic plant in the Microsorum genus, believed to originate from Southeast Asia, characterized by its distinctive forked leaf tips splitting into three to five prongs resembling a trident. Its more delicate and slender appearance compared to standard Java fern makes it valuable as a focal point in small tanks or detailed layouts. The basic cultivation method involves securing the rhizome to driftwood or rocks using fishing line or adhesive, as burying the rhizome in substrate causes rot. Hardy and easy to grow in low to medium light without CO2, with slow growth. It also propagates via spores forming on leaf undersides. Slow growth makes maintaining its form over long periods easier with minimal maintenance effort.

Size of the Microsorum Trident

The Microsorum Trident grows to 10-25cm.

Basic Info

Origin

Southeast Asia

Lifespan

Perennial

Size

10-25cm

Temperature

20〜28℃

Growing Tips

Lighting

Grows in low to medium light. Strong lighting is unnecessary, and it is easy to maintain in the subdued light of a small tank.

CO2 & Fertilizer

A hardy plant that grows without CO2. Growth is slow, so light fertilizing is enough.

Substrate & Attachment

Fix the rhizome to driftwood or rock with fishing line or glue and let it attach. Burying the rhizome in the substrate causes rot.

Trimming & Propagation

Growth is slow, making its shape easy to maintain long-term. It propagates from the sporangia and plantlets that form on leaf undersides.

Cautions

Watch for fern disease and ensure good water flow. Remove any leaf that turns black and translucent as soon as you notice it.

TridentThree-prongedThin leavesAttachment

Microsorum Trident FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Microsorum Trident?
A

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 Microsorum Trident get?
A

The mature size of Microsorum Trident is 10-25cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QWhat is the typical price for Microsorum Trident?
A

The price of Microsorum Trident varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: September 25, 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.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Leptochilus pteropus (Blume) Fraser-Jenk. 'Trident'

Synonyms: Microsorum pteropus 'Trident'

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

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.

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