Micranthemum tweediei ‘Monte Carlo’ is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly carpeting plants in the aquarium hobby. Native to South America, this versatile species forms lush, bright green mats across the substrate, creating a natural “lawn” effect that enhances aquascapes of all styles. Its slightly larger, round leaves (compared to HC Cuba Baby Tears) make it easier to grow while still delivering that dense carpet look prized by aquascapers.
Monte Carlo adapts well to a wide range of setups, thriving under medium to high light. CO₂ supplementation speeds up growth and creates a thicker carpet, but it can also grow in lower-tech aquariums with more gradual spread. Once established, it creeps along the substrate via runners, quickly filling open spaces. The compact growth provides excellent surface area for shrimp biofilm, improves oxygenation, and creates a vibrant natural foreground.
Unlike HC Cuba, Monte Carlo is less demanding and more forgiving, making it a great choice for aquarists who want a lush carpet without the high maintenance. Regular trimming encourages denser lateral growth and prevents it from growing too tall.
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: South America (Argentina)
Growth rate: Medium to Fast (faster with CO₂)
Height: 3 – 6 cm
Light demand: Medium to High
CO₂: Recommended, but not strictly required
Micranthemum tweediei ‘Monte Carlo’ is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly carpeting plants in the aquarium hobby. Native to South America, this versatile species forms lush, bright green mats across the substrate, creating a natural “lawn” effect that enhances aquascapes of all styles. Its slightly larger, round leaves (compared to HC Cuba Baby Tears) make it easier to grow while still delivering that dense carpet look prized by aquascapers.
Monte Carlo adapts well to a wide range of setups, thriving under medium to high light. CO₂ supplementation speeds up growth and creates a thicker carpet, but it can also grow in lower-tech aquariums with more gradual spread. Once established, it creeps along the substrate via runners, quickly filling open spaces. The compact growth provides excellent surface area for shrimp biofilm, improves oxygenation, and creates a vibrant natural foreground.
Unlike HC Cuba, Monte Carlo is less demanding and more forgiving, making it a great choice for aquarists who want a lush carpet without the high maintenance. Regular trimming encourages denser lateral growth and prevents it from growing too tall.
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: South America (Argentina)
Growth rate: Medium to Fast (faster with CO₂)
Height: 3 – 6 cm
Light demand: Medium to High
CO₂: Recommended, but not strictly required
