Micranthemum callitrichoides (HC Baby Tears) is one of the smallest and most sought-after carpeting plants in the aquarium hobby. Native to Cuba, this delicate species forms lush, vibrant green mats across the substrate, creating a natural “lawn” effect that is especially popular in aquascaping. Its tiny round leaves (just a few millimeters wide) give tanks a refined, high-end look reminiscent of professional aquascapes.
HC Baby Tears thrives under medium to high light and with added CO₂ supplementation, though it can adapt to lower-tech setups with slower growth. When established, it spreads quickly across the substrate through runners, filling in open areas with a dense carpet. This provides excellent surface area for shrimp biofilm, improves oxygen exchange, and enhances the natural aesthetic of the aquarium.
While it requires more care than hardier plants, HC Baby Tears rewards aquarists with one of the most beautiful and vibrant ground covers available. Regular trimming keeps the carpet compact and encourages lateral growth.
These portions are aquarium-grown in a controlled environment—free of unwanted hitchhikers like snails and invasive plants to the best of our ability.
Plant Info
Type: Carpeting
Origin: Cuba
Growth rate: Medium to Fast (with CO₂)
Height: 3 – 6 cm
Light demand: Medium to High
CO₂: Recommended for optimal growth
Micranthemum callitrichoides (HC Baby Tears) is one of the smallest and most sought-after carpeting plants in the aquarium hobby. Native to Cuba, this delicate species forms lush, vibrant green mats across the substrate, creating a natural “lawn” effect that is especially popular in aquascaping. Its tiny round leaves (just a few millimeters wide) give tanks a refined, high-end look reminiscent of professional aquascapes.
HC Baby Tears thrives under medium to high light and with added CO₂ supplementation, though it can adapt to lower-tech setups with slower growth. When established, it spreads quickly across the substrate through runners, filling in open areas with a dense carpet. This provides excellent surface area for shrimp biofilm, improves oxygen exchange, and enhances the natural aesthetic of the aquarium.
While it requires more care than hardier plants, HC Baby Tears rewards aquarists with one of the most beautiful and vibrant ground covers available. Regular trimming keeps the carpet compact and encourages lateral growth.
These portions are aquarium-grown in a controlled environment—free of unwanted hitchhikers like snails and invasive plants to the best of our ability.
Plant Info
Type: Carpeting
Origin: Cuba
Growth rate: Medium to Fast (with CO₂)
Height: 3 – 6 cm
Light demand: Medium to High
CO₂: Recommended for optimal growth
