Narrow Leaf Java Fern

Narrow Leaf Java Fern is a cultivated variety of Microsorum pteropus that keeps the undemanding nature of the species but wears noticeably narrower leaves. It is important to know that the plant sold as 'Narrow' is not the same as the one traded as 'Needle Leaf', even though the two are often confused; this is the 'Narrow' form. It grows from a creeping rhizome to about 20 cm.

Like other java ferns it is an epiphyte, best tied to wood or stone rather than planted in the substrate, and it is very easy to keep. It grows at pH 5 to 8 and 20 to 28 °C, and it does not need CO₂ injection or strong light. New plants appear along the leaf margins or from rhizome division, so one healthy piece becomes several over time.

Its slim, upright leaves give it a lighter, more delicate look than the broad-leaf java fern, which suits smaller tanks and midground placement on hardscape. It tolerates low light well and is a dependable choice for low-tech aquariums.