Dwarf baby tears

Hemianthus callitrichoides

Family : Linderniaceae

PlantFreshwatercarpet

Dwarf baby tears is a highly sought-after foreground plant for creating a dense carpet in aquariums.

Popularity
Carpet (advanced)
CO₂ + intense light
Availability
Order only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Caribbean
Récifs de l'Atlantique Ouest tropical.

Description

This plant has very small round leaves (2-3 mm) on thin stems. It grows quickly and forms a dense carpet if conditions are good. It requires high light and CO2 to thrive. Often used in 'natural' or 'Dutch' style aquariums. It can be planted in small clumps.

Habitat

Region :

This plant grows in wetlands and marshes, often along river and lake edges, on sandy or muddy soils. It forms dense carpets.

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2228 °C
pH67
GH28 °dGH
KH15 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 10 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.2 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
4/5
Diet
Photosynthetic
Min. tank
30 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
3 cm
Lifespan
2 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
Bouturage des tiges ou division des touffes.

Care notes

Demanding plant. Temperature 22-28°C, pH 6.0-7.0, low hardness. High light (at least 1W/L). CO2 essential. Liquid fertilizers and nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Regular trimming needed to maintain carpet. Sensitive to algae if balance is off. Suitable for experienced aquarists.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References