Overview
Micranthemum umbrosum (J.F. Gmel.) Blake, also known as Hemianthus umbrosum, is a small aquatic plant that belongs to the botanical family Linderniaceae. It is a popular aquarium plant, known for its small size and ease of maintenance.
Origin
Micranthemum umbrosum is native to South and Central America. It can be found growing in slow-moving rivers, streams, and other bodies of water that are rich in nutrients.
Common Names
Some common names for Micranthemum umbrosum include Hemianthus umbrosum, baby tears, dwarf baby tears, pearl grass, and star grass. These names reflect the plant's small size and delicate appearance.
Appearance
Micranthemum umbrosum is a small, creeping plant that has delicate, bright green leaves. The leaves are arranged in pairs along the stems, which can grow up to six inches in length. The plant has a creeping, spreading growth habit and can quickly form a carpet over the substrate in an aquarium.
Uses
Micranthemum umbrosum is a popular aquarium plant that is widely used in aquascaping. Its small size and creeping habit make it ideal for creating a lush, green carpet in the foreground of an aquarium. The plant is relatively easy to grow, and requires moderate to high lighting and a nutrient-rich substrate.
Micranthemum umbrosum is also used in the aquarium hobby as a natural water purifier. It is able to absorb excess nutrients from the water, helping to keep the aquarium environment healthy and balanced.
Outside of the aquarium hobby, Micranthemum umbrosum has little other known uses.
Light Requirements
Micranthemum umbrosum requires moderate to high levels of light to thrive. Insufficient light may result in stunted growth or failure to thrive. Therefore, it is recommended to provide the plant with at least 8 hours of artificial light per day. In a natural setting, the plant grows best in partially shaded areas where it has access to filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
Typically, Micranthemum umbrosum grows best in temperatures between 20-28°C. The plant prefers warmer temperatures, so it is not ideal for areas where temperatures drop below 16°C. Extremely high temperatures, above 30°C, may cause damage to the plant. In areas with fluctuating temperatures, consistency is key to ensure the best growth.
Soil Requirements
When it comes to soil, Micranthemum umbrosum favors loose substrates with good drainage. It prefers neutral to slightly acidic soils, typically with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The use of a nutrient-rich substrate is recommended, such as aqua soil or a mixture of peat and vermiculite. The plant also benefits from root fertilization, as it absorbs nutrients through its roots to sustain its growth.
Cultivation of Micranthemum Umbrosum
Micranthemum Umbrosum is a type of aquatic plant that is commonly used in aquariums. In order to cultivate this plant, you should begin by choosing an appropriate location for your tank. Ideally, the tank should be placed in an area that receives moderate to high levels of light.
Next, prepare the aquarium substrate. Micranthemum Umbrosum can be grown in a variety of substrates, including sand, gravel, and soil. It is important to ensure that the substrate is well-drained and is free of any contaminants that may harm the plant.
Once the substrate has been prepared, you can plant the Micranthemum Umbrosum. Plant the stems of the plant about 2-3cm apart to ensure proper growth. Cover the roots of the plant completely and gently pack the substrate around the plant to hold it in place.
Watering Needs
Micranthemum Umbrosum requires frequent watering in order to thrive. It is important to ensure that the plant receives enough water to keep the substrate moist, but not waterlogged. Watering the plant 2-3 times per week is sufficient to meet the plant's watering needs.
Fertilization
Fertilization is an important component of Micranthemum Umbrosum's growth. Add liquid fertilizer to the tank once a week to provide the plant with essential nutrients, such as potassium, phosphorous, and nitrogen. The frequency of fertilization may vary based on the nutrient levels present in the substrate and water, so it is important to monitor the plant's growth and adjust fertilization accordingly.
Pruning
Regular pruning is important to keep Micranthemum Umbrosum healthy and to prevent overcrowding in the aquarium. Cut the stems of the plant back to just above the substrate to help maintain the plant's shape and promote new growth. It is recommended that you prune the plant once every two weeks to ensure proper growth and health.
Propagation Methods of Micranthemum umbrosum
Micranthemum umbrosum, commonly known as the baby tears plant, is a popular aquarium plant due to its small size and appealing appearance. Propagation is an essential aspect of cultivating this plant to increase its population. Fortunately, propagating Micranthemum umbrosum is quite easy and can be done by the following methods:
Plant Division
The most straightforward method of propagating Micranthemum umbrosum is through plant division, which involves separating a small part of the parent plant and planting it in a different location. This method works well for mature plants that have developed a well-established root system.
Stem Cutting
An alternative method is stem cutting, which involves separating a stem from the parent plant, trimming the leaves, and planting it in the substrate. This method is ideal for younger plants with small leaves and stems.
Adventitious Shoots
Another propagation method is through adventitious shoots, which are small plantlets that develop along the stem. These can be detached from the stem and planted in the substrate to establish new plants.
Tissue Culture
Finally, tissue culture is another method used to propagate Micranthemum umbrosum. It involves growing plant tissues, such as stems or leaves, in a sterile nutrient-rich medium to produce new plants. This method requires specialized skills and equipment, making it the least popular method for home gardeners.
Regardless of the propagation method one opts for, it is crucial to provide the newly propagated plant with the right environmental conditions, including adequate light, CO2, and nutrients, to ensure its growth and development.
Disease Management
A healthy Micranthemum umbrosum plant is less likely to be affected by diseases, so maintaining good plant care practices is essential for disease prevention. Providing adequate lighting, nutrition, and avoiding overcrowding in the tank can help prevent diseases. Below are some common diseases and ways to manage them.
- Bacterial Blight: Caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris, it first appears as water-soaked spots that turn reddish-brown. The affected leaves will eventually die and fall off. Pruning the infected leaves, improving water circulation and using copper-based bactericides can help manage Bacterial Blight.
- Leaf Spot: Caused by the fungus Cercospora sp., it first appears as brownish-yellow spots that develop into brown spots with yellow edges. Pruning all infected material, making sure the water quality is good and maintaining good water circulation can help keep Leaf Spots at bay.
- Rhizome Rot: Caused by the fungus Pythium or Phytophthora sp., it first appears as water-soaked lesions on the rhizome that will develop into rotting, mushy tissue. If left unchecked, the entire plant can be destroyed. Good plant hygiene, adequate lighting, and using fungicides such as copper sulfate can help manage Rhizome Rot.
Pest Management
In addition to diseases, Micranthemum umbrosum can also be attacked by pests. Below are some of the most common pests that might affect the plant and some ways to manage them.
- Snails: They gather in aquariums where there is plenty of food, and once introduced, become pests that will destroy plants by eating through their leaves. Manual removal of snails and using traps can help manage snails.
- Aphids: They suck sap from the plant and excrete honeydew, which eventually leads to the growth of mold. Pruning infested tissue, spraying water on them, and using insecticidal soap can help manage aphids.
- Spider Mites: They feed on the plant by piercing through its cells. When severe, the plant will develop yellowish spots, leaves will wilt, and the plant will eventually die. Spraying the plant with water, maintaining proper humidity and using acaricides can help manage spider mites.
