Tissue Culture - Hemianthus Callittrichoides

Hemianthus Callitrichoides "Cuba" is one of the smallest aquarium plants globally, showcasing millimeter-sized, round leaves that create a stunning carpet effect in your tank's foreground. Originating from Cuba, west of Havana, it's a popular choice for aquarists seeking an attractive and captivating foreground plant for smaller aquariums.

Hemianthus Callitrichoides "Cuba" offers a vibrant green carpet effect when properly trimmed and cared for. However, it can be challenging to grow, as optimal planting conditions for Hemianthus Callitrichoides "Cuba" include high lighting, CO2 injection, semi-intensive fertilization, temperatures between 17C-27C, a pH range of 6 - 8, and soft to moderately soft water. Regular trimming is essential to ensure sufficient light reaches the lower parts and prevents root death.

For optimal growth and to achieve its lush carpeting effect, HC should be planted using a dry start method to let it establish and grip the substrate before introducing water to the tank. When grown successfully, small oxygen pearls often adorn the top of the plants, adding a lively aspect to the carpet.

It's very small leaves and bright green color create a unique aesthetic that few other plants can replicate. If creating these conditions is challenging, Micranthemum ‘Monte-Carlo’ serves as a less demanding alternative. 

HC, exhibits a slow to moderate growth rate and serves as an ideal foreground plant. Its growth pattern involves lateral carpeting and stems that spread rapidly, covering the substrate like a dense carpet when planted in small clumps a few centimeters apart.

This plant's delicate nature and aesthetic appeal make it a captivating choice for aquascaping enthusiasts, contributing a unique visual charm to aquatic landscapes.