Growth States
Available FormEmersed / Submersed
Transition DifficultyMedium
Melt RiskModerate
Adaptation Time14 Days
Description
Overview: Hemianthus callitrichoides, or "HC Cuba," is one of the smallest aquarium plants in the world. It is the ultimate carpeting plant, creating a dense, vibrant green mat of tiny leaves. It is very demanding, requiring extremely high light and high CO2 levels. Because its roots are very shallow, it is best planted in small clumps into a fine-grained substrate. When it’s happy, it produces countless tiny oxygen bubbles (pearling), which is a sight to behold.
Maintenance Score
8/10High Maintenance
Visual Impact
8/10High Texture
Requirements
CO2 LevelRequired
Growth RateModerate
Light LevelHigh
FertilizerMedium
Max Heightn/a cm
ExperienceAdvanced
Care & Design
Trimming
Biweekly: Trim tops and replant healthy stems as needed.
Propagation
Cuttings, runners, or division depending on species.
Recommended Styles
natureiwagumiislandnanominimalist
Hemianthus Cuba may show different leaf size and texture between emersed and submersed growth.
Common Issues
- • Melt during transition
- • Algae on older leaves
Water Parameters
Temperature
22–28°C
pH Range
6–7.5
Hardness (GH)
2–12 dGH
Physical Traits
Leaf Shape
oval
Texture
medium
Growth Pattern
stem
Color Profile
green
Placement & Sensitivity
Placement Depth
any
Grouping Size
4+
Algae Sensitivity
moderate
Nutrient Sensitivity
moderate
Density
moderate
Leaf Descriptions
Emersed Form
Emersed leaves of Hemianthus Cuba are adapted to air growth and typically differ in thickness/shape.
Submersed Form
Submersed leaves of Hemianthus Cuba are optimized for underwater flow and nutrient uptake.
Ready to use this in your tank?
Add Hemianthus Cuba to your virtual scape and see how it fits.