Microsorum pteropus 'Windeløv' (Windeløv Java fern)

26 October 2026

119

Microsorum pteropus 'Windeløv' is a cultivated Java fern form recognized by its finely branched leaf tips. It is a hardy rhizome plant suited to low-tech aquariums and is commonly attached to wood or rock rather than planted deeply in substrate. The supplied label and images support identification as this cultivar, although individual leaves can vary with growing conditions. It grows slowly and tolerates a broad range of aquarium conditions when kept stable.

Microsorum pteropus 'Windeløv' (Windeløv Java fern)

Identification

This cultivar has elongated Java fern leaves with distinctly divided or ruffled terminal sections. New tissue-culture growth may appear pale green and become darker as it adapts underwater. The supplied packaging identifies it as Microsorum pteropus 'Windeløv'; the cultivar identification is therefore treated as high confidence, while exact parentage and collection origin are not established here.

Placement and planting

Attach the rhizome to driftwood, rock, or another aquarium surface using thread or aquarium-safe adhesive. Do not bury the rhizome in substrate, because buried rhizomes can deteriorate. Roots will usually anchor the plant over time. Leave space around the clump so the branched leaves receive water movement and do not shade smaller plants.

Lighting and water conditions

Low to moderate aquarium lighting is generally sufficient. Avoid abruptly increasing light, especially while a newly purchased tissue-culture plant is adapting, as this can encourage algae on slowly growing leaves. Stable water quality, gentle circulation, and regular maintenance are more important than intense lighting. The plant tolerates a wide range of typical freshwater aquarium conditions.

Fertilization and carbon

Microsorum pteropus 'Windeløv' obtains much of its nutrition from the water column, so a balanced aquarium fertilizer can support steady growth when nutrients are limited. Added carbon dioxide is optional rather than essential. Avoid excessive nutrient dosing if algae is already present, since the plant's slow growth may not use nutrients quickly.

Propagation and maintenance

Propagation is normally by dividing the rhizome or separating established plantlets that develop on older leaves. Divide only healthy sections and keep growing points intact. Remove badly damaged or algae-covered leaves at the base with clean scissors. Older leaves may be replaced gradually as the plant settles into submerged growth.

Plant info

Colors: Green, Dark green, Light green
Difficulty: Easy
Origin: Cultivar
Usage: On rock or root
Type: Rhizome fern
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 10-20 cm
Light demand: Low
CO2: Low

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