Contents
Description
Micranthemum Umbrosum, also known as Hemianthus Umbrosum or Baby Tears, is a small aquatic plant that belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is native to South America, specifically to Brazil, and is commonly found in slow-moving and shallow water bodies like streams, rivers, and ponds. The plant has small, round leaves that grow in a dense mat, making it a popular choice for aquascaping enthusiasts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Micranthemum |
Appearance
The leaves of Micranthemum Umbrosum are small, round, and light green in color. They grow in a dense mat, making the plant an excellent foreground or midground plant in an aquarium. In its emersed form, the plant produces small white flowers, but it rarely flowers in an aquarium. The plant can grow up to 2 inches in height and spreads quickly, making it a popular choice for aquascaping enthusiasts.
Care Guide
Micranthemum Umbrosum is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it an excellent choice for beginner aquascapers. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Micranthemum Umbrosum prefers slightly soft to medium-hard water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It thrives in temperatures between 68°F and 82°F.
- Fertilization: The plant requires regular fertilization to maintain its vibrant green color. Use liquid fertilizers or root tabs for best results.
- Soil: Micranthemum Umbrosum prefers nutrient-rich substrates like aquasoil or gravel mixed with laterite.
- Sunlight: The plant requires moderate to high lighting levels to grow well. It’s best to provide at least 2 watts per gallon of light to promote healthy growth.
- Hardiness Zones: Micranthemum Umbrosum is hardy in zones 9-11, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor aquascapes.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like most aquatic plants, Micranthemum Umbrosum is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Algae: Excessive lighting or nutrient imbalances can cause the plant to become covered in algae. Reduce lighting or adjust fertilization to control algae growth.
- Snails: Snails can damage the leaves of the plant, making it unsightly. Remove snails manually or use a snail trap to control their population.
- Root Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause the roots of the plant to rot. Trim affected roots and replant the plant in fresh substrate.
Habitat
Micranthemum Umbrosum is native to Brazil and is commonly found in slow-moving and shallow water bodies like streams, rivers, and ponds. It thrives in nutrient-rich substrates and prefers slightly soft to medium-hard water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. In its emersed form, the plant produces small white flowers, but it rarely flowers in an aquarium.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Micranthemum Umbrosum a good plant for a beginner aquascaper?
A: Yes, Micranthemum Umbrosum is an excellent plant for beginner aquascapers. It’s relatively easy to care for and is hardy in a wide range of water parameters.
Q: Can Micranthemum Umbrosum be grown emersed?
A: Yes, Micranthemum Umbrosum can be grown emersed. It produces small white flowers in its emersed form, but it rarely flowers in an aquarium.
Q: What is the ideal lighting level for Micranthemum Umbrosum?
A: Micranthemum Umbrosum requires moderate to high lighting levels to grow well. Provide at least 2 watts per gallon of light to promote healthy growth.
Q: How often should I fertilize Micranthemum Umbrosum?
A: Micranthemum Umbrosum requires regular fertilization to maintain its vibrant green color. Use liquid fertilizers or root tabs for best results and fertilize once or twice a week.
Related Plants
- Micranthemum Monte Carlo
- Micranthemum ‘Montevidensis’
- Micranthemum Tweediei
- Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo Mini’
References
- Aquarium Gardens. “Hemianthus Umbrosum.” Aquarium Gardens, 2021, https://www.aquariumgardens.co.uk/hemianthus-umbrosum-1333-p.asp.
- “Micranthemum Umbrosum.” Aquarium Co-Op, 2021, https://www.aquariumcoop.com/products/micranthemum-umbrosum.
- “Micranthemum Umbrosum.” Tropica, 2021, https://tropica.com/en/plants/plantdetails/Micranthemumumbrosum(045TC)/4466.
