Microsorum pteropus "Orange Narrow"

Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

It must be mounted on hardscape materials, ensuring the rhizome is not buried in the substrate. It is perfectly suited for midground placements where its colorful new leaves can be highlighted. It looks exceptional when attached to branching driftwood.

Botanical form

rhizome or creeping stem

It features narrow, elongated leaves that emerge with a distinct orange to brownish-red coloration. As the leaves mature, they transition to the typical dark green of a Java Fern. It grows from a sturdy rhizome equipped with strong anchoring roots.

Growth

Medium

It grows slowly, similar to other Java Fern varieties. The provision of CO2 and moderate lighting can encourage more frequent production of its colorful new leaves. It is a low-maintenance plant that establishes itself gradually over time.

Substrate

None

Column fertilization

Recommended

Liquid fertilization is essential, with a focus on iron and trace elements to boost its unique coloration. Potassium should also be dosed to prevent pinholes in older leaves. It efficiently absorbs all required elements through its foliage.

Root fertilization

None

As an epiphyte, it gains no benefit from nutrient-rich substrates or root tabs. The roots serve only to attach the plant firmly to its chosen surface. It is ideal for aquariums that use cosmetic sand or gravel.

Trimming

Occasional

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only the removal of old, fading leaves at the rhizome. Do not cut the leaves midway, as they cannot heal or regrow from the cut. Pruning older leaves can stimulate the growth of new, brightly colored fronds.

Propagation

Division

Propagation is straightforward by dividing the rhizome into smaller sections. It also propagates by producing tiny plantlets on the margins of mature leaves. These can be plucked off and attached elsewhere once they develop their own roots.

Sensitivity

Moderate

It is a highly adaptable plant that tolerates a wide range of water parameters. Too much light without CO2 can lead to algae colonizing its slow-growing leaves. The distinct orange coloration may be less intense in low-light setups.

Layout role

Epiphyte, Midground, Background

It serves as a stunning midground focal point due to the warm tones of its new growth. It breaks up the monotony of green in epiphyte-heavy layouts. Its narrow leaves add a graceful, flowing texture to the aquascape.