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Micranthemum callitrichoides "Cuba" (HC Cuba)

02 June 2026

Discovered in a stream on the island of Cuba, Micranthemum callitrichoides "Cuba" is one of the smallest aquarium plants in the world. Its millimeter-sized leaves create a lush, dense, bright green carpet, making it a highly sought-after foreground choice for aquascapers looking to create a stunning sense of scale.

Plant Profile: Micranthemum callitrichoides "Cuba"

Commonly known as HC Cuba, this plant is renowned for being one of the smallest aquatic plants available in the aquarium hobby. Discovered near Havana, Cuba, it has become a staple for aquascapers aiming to create an intricate, scale-appropriate carpet in both nano and large aquariums.

Image of Micranthemum callitrichoides Cuba

Care and Maintenance

Achieving a dense, healthy carpet requires high light and abundant CO2 injection. Without sufficient lighting, the plant may grow upwards rather than creeping along the substrate. Regular trimming is essential to prevent the bottom layers from being shaded, which can cause the carpet to rot and uproot.

Aquascaping Application

When planted in small portions spaced a few centimeters apart, it will spread to form a solid, bright green foreground. It contrasts beautifully with darker hardscape materials like Seiryu or Dragon stone, dramatically enhancing the depth, perspective, and overall natural feel of the aquascape.

Plant info

Colors: Green, Light green

Difficulty: Advanced

Origin: North America

Usage: Foreground

Type: Stem

Growth rate: Medium

Height: 3 - 5 cm

Light demand: High

CO2: High

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