Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo” is a low growing aquatic plant that originates from Argentina.  It is a perfect foreground plant that if given sufficient lighting and nutrients can grow into a thick carpet of green foliage.  The leaves are small and round with a beautiful bright green coloration that can nicely offset any neutral toned substrate.  This plant is very similar to Hemianthus Callitrichoides (HC/Dwarf Baby Tears) but the leaves are larger and in our experience, its easier to grow.  When hobbyist are having trouble growing HC, we recommend giving Monte Carlo a try.

High lighting and Co2 injection is necessary to keep this plant low growing.  Vertical growing thin stalks are an indication of lack of lighting while yellowing leaves can mean nutrition deficiency.  Thin leaves can also hint at a lack of Co2.  This plant can grow quickly and require regular trimming when kept under proper conditions. 

This plant can grow submerged or emersed in dry start aquariums and Wabi Kusa.  Because this plant is small with tiny roots, it can prove difficult to keep planted into the substrate.  In this case, dry start can help by allowing time for the roots to anchor into the substrate before flooding the tank.

Family Name: Phrymaceae

Origin: Argentina

Height: 1-2”

pH: 6-7.5

Care: Medium

Light: Medium to High

Co2: Recommended 

Propagation: Cut new growth along with roots

Growth rate: Moderate to Fast