Micranthemum glomeratum

Baby tears, known as Micranthemum glomeratum grows, amongst others, in wet depressions and stagnant waters. Its emersed form, growing on wet soil, forms a dense, low, light green carpet of tiny creeping shoots. The leaves of Micranthemum glomeratum sometimes are crosswise opposite (2 leaves per stem node), however, most frequently grow in whorls of 3 to 4 leaves per node. The leaves of submersed plants are lanceolate to elliptical, 3 to 9 mm long and 2 to 4 mm wide. Emersed plants remain far smaller than those cultivated submersed, have elliptical leaves and develop a creeping growth habit. Only the land form grows tiny whiteish flowers.

Micranthemum glomeratum is a relatively undemanding plant that develops best under lots of light (approx. 0,5 watts per litre or more). Then it forms a dense bush with upright, slanted or even horizontal shoots. Under lower light, it grows vertically, forming long internodes. In well-lit aquaria it grows well even without the addition of CO2, however, when CO2 is injected into the tank its growth rate is higher and its habit bushier. If CO2 is deficient, greyish-white lime deposits may form on the leaves (biogenous decalcification). A regular supply of nitrate, phosphate, iron and micronutrients is of advantage, and higher phosphate levels of around 1 to 2 mg/l seem to induce the plant to form larger, more robust stems and to further growth. H. glomeratus is highly susceptible to fish medication containing Erythromycin or Tryptaflavin. Like all stem plants, Micranthemum glomeratum is propagated by cuttings of stems that are taken out of the bush and re-planted in the substrate. The plant also spreads by growing roots on its creeping stems.

Micranthemum glomeratum can be used in many ways. Under intensive light it forms a nice carpet in the foreground, and when it is trimmed frequently it can be formed into a nice bush in the middleground. In small aquaria it can even form a decorative eyecatcher in the background of the tank. Its small leaves make Micranthemum glomeratum an especially interesting plant for nano tanks

*Pictures are not the actual plants you will receive, but a sample representation.