Scientific Name: Helanthium tenellum 'Micro'
Common Name: Micro Chain Sword, Dwarf Pygmy Chain Sword
Origin: Cultivated dwarf form of Helanthium tenellum
Growth Rate: Moderate
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Temperature: 20–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
GH: 2–12 dGH
KH: 1–8 dKH
Moderate to high lighting is recommended.
High light promotes compact growth and dense carpet formation.
Under lower light conditions, leaves may grow taller and the carpet effect becomes less pronounced.
CO₂ supplementation is beneficial but not essential.
Encourages faster runner production, denser growth, and a more compact appearance.
Suitable for both low-tech and high-tech planted aquariums.
Primarily a root-feeding plant.
Benefits greatly from nutrient-rich substrates and root tabs.
Requires adequate nitrate, phosphate, potassium, and micronutrients for healthy growth.
Regular fertilization promotes vigorous runner production and lush green foliage.
Best suited for the foreground.
Ideal for creating natural grass-like carpets and open meadow effects.
Can also be used to soften transitions between hardscape and taller plants.
Propagates naturally through runners.
Daughter plants develop along runners and can be separated once established.
Spreads steadily to form dense carpets under favorable conditions.
Trim taller leaves periodically to maintain a low-growing carpet.
Provide adequate spacing during planting to allow runners to spread naturally.
Nutrient-rich substrate significantly improves growth and carpet density.
Stable lighting and nutrient levels encourage compact growth.
Helanthium tenellum 'Micro' is a compact foreground plant valued for its fine, grass-like leaves and ability to form attractive natural carpets. Smaller than standard Helanthium tenellum, it is ideal for creating meadow-style landscapes and open foreground areas. With moderate to high lighting, balanced fertilization, and optional CO₂ supplementation, it develops into a dense, vibrant green carpet that adds depth, texture, and a natural appearance to Nature, Dutch, and contemporary planted aquariums.
