🌿 Microsorum pteropus ‘Broad Leaf’ – Bold Java Fern with Large, Lush Fronds

Microsorum pteropus ‘Broad Leaf’, commonly referred to as Java Fern Broad Leaf, is a bold and robust cultivar of the classic Java Fern, known for its wide, paddle-shaped leaves that create a lush and dramatic presence in the aquarium. With broader foliage than most other Microsorum variants, this plant offers a more substantial visual impact—perfect for filling space in midground or background layouts.

Grown emersed at Aquarium Plants Factory, this variety transitions smoothly to submerged conditions. Once established in your aquarium, Broad Leaf forms a dense cluster of vibrant green fronds that sway gently in the current and provide excellent cover for small fish and invertebrates.

As a rhizome plant, Java Fern Broad Leaf must be attached to driftwood, stones, or aquarium décor, as burying the rhizome in substrate can cause it to rot. This low-maintenance, slow-growing plant is a great choice for both beginners and experienced aquascapers who want a large-leafed fern that thrives in low- to medium-light environments without CO₂.

🌟 Key Features:

• Broad, Lush Leaves: Wide paddle-like leaves create a bold and tropical appearance

• Hardscape Friendly: Attach to driftwood, rocks, or decor—no need for substrate planting

• Low-Tech Suitable: Thrives without CO₂ in low to medium light settings

• Ideal for Background Use: Fills in space beautifully with minimal care

• Grown Emersed: Ready to adapt to submerged aquarium conditions

🔎 Botanical Information:

• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus ‘Broad Leaf’

• Synonyms: Leptochilus pteropus ‘Broad Leaf’

• Common Names: Java Fern Broad Leaf

• Plant Type: Rhizome plant

• Placement: Attach to driftwood, stone, or hardscape

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Lighting: Low to Medium

• Origin: Southeast Asia

💡 Optimal Growing Conditions:

• Lighting: Low to medium light is ideal to maintain broad leaf structure

• CO₂ & Fertilization: Not required; occasional liquid fertilizer may support leaf thickness

• 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 Broad Leaf—or any aquarium plant—into natural waterways. Always dispose of trimmings and unwanted portions responsibly to protect local ecosystems.