Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae 'Mini' Care Guide
Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae 'Mini' is a smaller micro-sword selection forming a dense lawn-like carpet around 3-5 cm tall.
Overview
Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae, commonly called micro sword, is a grass-like foreground plant of the carrot family (Apiaceae). The 'Mini' selection has shorter, narrower blades and forms a dense lawn-like carpet roughly 3-5 cm tall.
Taxonomy
- Family: Apiaceae
- Genus: Lilaeopsis
- Scientific name: Lilaeopsis novae-zelandiae 'Mini'
- Common name: micro sword
Habitat
Lilaeopsis is a grass-like marsh genus associated with damp, shallow habitats. Micro sword grows submersed and emersed and, when planted densely, spreads horizontally through the substrate to form a continuous low turf.
Aquarium requirements
- Temperature: 18-26 °C (64-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 4-14 °dGH
- Lighting: high (for dense, short growth)
- CO2: recommended (not strictly required)
- Placement: carpet / foreground
- Maximum height: about 5 cm
High light fosters dense, compact growth, and combined with CO2 it keeps the blades short, creating an even underwater lawn. CO2 is beneficial but not strictly required; the plant tolerates soft to moderately hard water.
Care and growth
Growth rate is medium. A nutrient-rich substrate supports strong root development and helps the carpet establish. Despite its fine appearance the plant is hardy and considered manageable for less experienced aquarists.
Propagation
Micro sword spreads by runners that travel horizontally through the substrate, producing new shoots. As runners fill in, the foreground develops into a continuous lawn; sections can be divided and replanted to speed coverage.