🌿 Microsorum pteropus ‘Coral Reef’ – Rare Split-Leaf Java Fern

Microsorum pteropus 'Coral Reef', also known as Java Fern Coral, is an exciting and rare cultivar of Java Fern that brings a wild and unpredictable charm to planted aquariums. This variety features randomly split, fishtail-like leaves—a trait that sets it apart from more predictable variants like Microsorum 'Trident' and Windelov. Each leaf can split in an unexpected pattern, giving every plant a unique and organic appearance.

At Aquarium Plants Factory, we grow Java Fern Coral Reef emersed in our nursery, where its leaf coloration ranges from light green to deep green. Under aquarium conditions, especially with strong lighting, new growth may display hints of pink or light red at the leaf tips—adding delicate color highlights to your aquascape.

As with other Microsorum species, Java Fern Coral Reef does not require planting in substrate. Instead, it thrives when attached to driftwood, rocks, or other decor, making it a versatile option for creative aquascaping layouts. It’s a slow-growing and low-maintenance plant, perfect for both beginners and advanced aquascapers seeking rare botanical accents.

🌟 Key Features:

• Unpredictable Split-Leaf Form: Random, fishtail-like leaf splitting pattern makes each plant visually unique

• Colorful New Growth: Young leaves may emerge with pink or light red tips

• Attachable Growth: Best mounted on wood, stone, or decor—no substrate needed

• Low Maintenance: Thrives in low to high light without CO₂

• Hardy and Versatile: Grows well in a wide range of water conditions

🔎 Botanical Information:

• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus ‘Coral Reef’

• Synonyms: Leptochilus pteropus 'Coral Reef’

• Common Names: Java Fern Coral, Java Fern Coral Reef

• Plant Type: Rhizome plant

• Placement: Attach to driftwood, stone, or hardscape

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Lighting: Low to High

💡 Optimal Growing Conditions:

• Lighting: Suitable for low to high light—intense lighting brings out red hues in new leaves

• CO₂ & Fertilization: CO₂ is not required. Light liquid fertilization helps maintain health and color

• Water Parameters:

  • pH: 6.0–7.5

  • Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)

  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🌱 Growth & Propagation:

• CO₂ Requirement: Not required

• Nutrient Substrate: Not required

• Can Grow Emersed: Yes

• Propagation Method: Rhizome division

📦 What You’ll Receive:

Sold as loose bare-root plants, bunched plants, or potted plants:

• Bare-root Plants: Approximately 3+ leaf portion, loose rhizome

• Bunched Plants: Approximately 3+ leaf portion bundled with foam and plant weight

• Potted Plants: Approximately 3+ leaf portion, potted in rockwool and net pot

⚠️ Disclaimer:

Photos are sample representations. Actual plants may vary in size, shape, or coloration. Unless otherwise specified, we do not guarantee plants are free of pests, pesticides, or exclusively submerged-grown.

🚫 State Restrictions Notice ♻️ Be a Responsible Aquatic Plants Owner

Never release Java Fern Coral Reef—or any aquarium plant—into natural waterways. Always dispose of trimmings and unwanted portions responsibly to protect local ecosystems.