What Carpet Plants Need
High light (60+ PAR), CO2 at 30 ppm, nutrient-rich substrate (aqua soil), and patience.
Without all four, carpets fail. Most commonly: low light = legginess (plants grow upward instead of spreading).
HC Cuba (Hemianthus callitrichoides)
The smallest carpet plant. Tiny round leaves on creeping stems. Forms dense low carpet (1/2 inch tall).
Most demanding carpet. Requires 80+ PAR, 30 ppm CO2, aqua soil. Even then, takes 4–6 weeks to establish.
Plant by separating tissue culture into small clumps and embedding in substrate every 2 cm.
Monte Carlo (Micranthemum tweediei)
Larger leaves than HC Cuba. Easier to grow.
Tolerates lower light (50 PAR) than HC. Still needs CO2.
Grows 1–2 inches tall. Trim regularly to maintain low carpet.
Glossostigma elatinoides
Classic ADA aquascape carpet. Slightly larger than HC but smaller than Monte Carlo.
Demanding light (80+ PAR). Tends to grow upward in low light.
Plant in 1-inch clumps, 2 cm apart.
Dwarf Hairgrass (Eleocharis acicularis)
Forms grass-like carpet 2–4 inches tall.
Easier than HC or Glosso. Tolerates 40–50 PAR.
Spreads via runners. Slow start, then explosive once established.
Marsilea hirsuta (4-leaf clover)
Clover-like leaves. Forms carpet 1–2 inches tall.
Most forgiving carpet plant. Will grow in 40 PAR with no CO2 (slowly).
Best for low-tech-curious keepers wanting a carpet effect.
Dry Start Method
Setup tank with substrate but no water. Plant the carpet plants. Spray daily, cover with plastic wrap (greenhouse effect).
Plants grow into substrate in 4–6 weeks without algae competition.
Then flood the tank and stock fish.
Best technique for HC Cuba and other demanding carpets.
Trimming and Maintenance
Trim carpets every 2–4 weeks to maintain shape.
Use curved scissors. Cut at desired height; clippings will float (skim out).
Frequent trimming makes the carpet denser.