Scientific Name: Hemianthus callitrichoides 'Cuba'
Common Name: HC Cuba, Dwarf Baby Tears
Origin: Cuba
Growth Rate: Moderate
Difficulty Level: Advanced
Temperature: 20–28°C
pH: 5.0–7.5
GH: 1–10 dGH
KH: 0–6 dKH
High lighting is strongly recommended.
Intense light promotes dense, compact carpeting growth.
Under insufficient light, the plant may grow upward and lose its tight carpet form.
CO₂ supplementation is essential for optimal growth.
Promotes rapid spreading, compact growth, and healthy leaf development.
Stable CO₂ levels are crucial for successful long-term cultivation.
Requires a consistent supply of macro and micronutrients.
Benefits from nutrient-rich substrates and regular fertilization.
Adequate nitrate, phosphate, potassium, and trace elements support vigorous growth.
Stable nutrient availability helps maintain a lush and healthy carpet.
Best suited for the foreground.
Commonly used as a carpeting plant.
Creates a dense, bright green carpet that enhances depth and scale in aquascapes.
Propagated through division and runners.
Small portions can be separated and replanted to establish new growth areas.
Gradually spreads across the substrate under favorable conditions.
Plant in small portions with adequate spacing to encourage even coverage.
Maintain stable CO₂ and lighting to prevent melt and poor growth.
Regular trimming helps preserve a low, dense carpet.
Good water circulation helps distribute nutrients and reduces the risk of algae.
Hemianthus callitrichoides 'Cuba' is one of the most iconic carpeting plants in aquascaping, renowned for its tiny, vibrant green leaves and ability to form exceptionally dense foreground carpets. Its miniature leaf size creates a strong sense of scale, making aquariums appear larger and more natural. Widely used in Nature, Iwagumi, and competition-style aquascapes, HC Cuba produces a lush, meadow-like effect that beautifully complements rocks, driftwood, and larger aquatic plants. When provided with strong lighting, stable CO₂, and balanced nutrients, it develops into a stunning carpet that becomes a focal feature of the aquarium.
