Marsilea hirsuta

Plant overview

For foreground planting, Marsilea hirsuta grows as a creeping plant. Its profile combines easy care, low light, none CO₂.

Marsilea hirsuta suits water with pH 6–7.5, KH 0–10 °dKH.

About this plant

Marsilea hirsuta is an Australian water fern used in aquariums as a creeping foreground groundcover. The botanical group and the aquarium use describe different aspects of the same plant: it is a fern, but it spreads across the substrate through runners and can form a low carpet. Submerged leaves vary with conditions and may be single, divided or clover-like. Aquarium growth usually remains about 2 to 10 cm tall. The plant tolerates relatively low light and does not require injected carbon dioxide, although added CO2 can speed establishment and produce a more even carpet. Plant small rooted portions with space between them and allow the runners to fill the gaps. Unwanted sections can be removed by cutting the connecting runner, while rooted daughter plants can be replanted elsewhere. Marsilea hirsuta is suitable for nano aquariums and larger natural layouts where a durable, less demanding carpet is preferred.