Microsorium pteropus 'Windelov' on Small Wood - Microsorium pteropus

Microsorium pteropus 'Windelov' on Small Wood – Microsorium pteropus

Microsorium pteropus 'Windelov' on Small Wood, commonly known as Windelov Java Fern, is an attractive, easy-care freshwater aquarium plant attached to a natural piece of wood. This distinctive variety features beautiful green leaves with finely branched, decorative tips that create a delicate, bushy appearance. Perfect for beginners and experienced aquarists, Windelov Java Fern thrives in low to moderate lighting and does not require additional CO₂. Already attached to wood, it can be placed directly into your aquarium to create a natural-looking aquascape.

Key Identification

• Common Name: Windelov Java Fern on Small Wood

• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus 'Windeløv' (also sold as Microsorium pteropus 'Windelov')

• Plant Category: Epiphytic Aquarium Plants

• Plant Type: Rhizome / Attached Fern

• Placement: Foreground, Midground or Hardscape

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Care Level: Easy

Natural Origin & Habitat

Windelov Java Fern is a cultivated variety of Java Fern, a species native to tropical Asia. The original species naturally grows along shaded streams, rivers and waterfalls, where it attaches to rocks, roots and wood.

The Windelov variety was developed in cultivation and is known for its distinctive branching leaf tips. Its tolerance of low lighting and adaptable nature make it an excellent choice for freshwater aquariums.

Appearance & Adult Size

Windelov Java Fern features attractive green leaves with finely divided, branching tips that give the plant a distinctive, textured appearance.

• Plant Height: Approximately 15–20 cm

• Leaf Colour: Medium to Dark Green

• Growth Habit: Compact, Bushy and Branched

• Growth Rate: Slow

Its unique leaf shape creates an attractive contrast against other aquarium plants, while the natural wooden base makes it easy to position among rocks, gravel and decorations.

Aquarium Suitability

Windelov Java Fern on Small Wood is suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists. It works particularly well in community aquariums, shrimp tanks, nano aquariums, low-tech planted setups and natural aquascaping displays.

The plant requires minimal maintenance and does not need nutrient-rich substrate or additional CO₂.

Recommended Aquarium Placement

Best Position: Foreground, Midground or Hardscape

Simply position the wood onto the aquarium substrate or among rocks and other decorations.

The plant is already attached to the wood, so no additional planting is required.

Its decorative, branching leaves make it particularly effective when positioned around driftwood, stones and other hardscape features.

Important: Do not bury the plant's rhizome beneath gravel or sand, as this can cause it to rot.

Water Conditions & Lighting

• Temperature: 20–28°C

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to Hard

• Lighting: Low to Moderate

• CO₂: Not Required

• Fertilisation: Occasional liquid plant fertiliser is beneficial

• Substrate: Not Required

Windelov Java Fern grows best in stable freshwater conditions. It tolerates shaded aquarium areas and does not require intense lighting, making it ideal for low-tech planted aquariums.

Growth & Maintenance

Windelov Java Fern is a slow-growing plant that requires very little maintenance.

Occasionally remove damaged or ageing leaves and gently clear away algae that may develop on the foliage.

Over time, the plant will develop new leaves and roots, becoming more established on the wood. Small plantlets may also develop on mature leaves, which can eventually be separated to grow new plants.

Its slow growth helps maintain a compact, attractive appearance without frequent trimming.

Compatibility With Fish & Invertebrates

This plant is suitable for most peaceful freshwater community aquariums, including those containing:

• Tetras and Rasboras

• Guppies and other peaceful livebearers

• Bettas and Dwarf Gouramis

• Corydoras Catfish

• Freshwater Shrimp

• Freshwater Snails

Its decorative leaves and wooden base provide useful resting areas, grazing surfaces and shelter for small fish and shrimp.

Care Notes

• Keep the rhizome exposed and avoid burying it.

• Suitable for low-tech aquariums without CO₂ injection.

• Slow growth means frequent trimming is unnecessary.

• Excessive lighting may encourage algae on the leaves.

• The finely branched leaf tips are a natural feature of this variety.

• Small dark spots underneath mature leaves may be natural reproductive structures rather than disease.

• Some older leaves may deteriorate while the plant adjusts to a new aquarium.

Further Information

Microsorium pteropus 'Windelov' on Small Wood is an excellent choice for adding natural greenery and interesting leaf textures to freshwater aquariums without complicated plant care.

Its distinctive branching foliage, hardy nature and tolerance of lower lighting make it particularly popular for aquascaping, community tanks and beginner planted aquariums.

Already attached to natural wood, it provides a convenient and decorative way to introduce a living plant into your aquarium.

Image Disclaimer

Please Note: Images are for illustration purposes only. As this is a natural living plant attached to wood, the size, shape, leaf growth and appearance of the wood may vary from the product pictured. Each piece is unique.