Cardamine lyrata

Glossostigma elatinoides is a classic and iconic carpeting plant native to Australia and New Zealand, celebrated in the aquarium hobby for its tiny, spoon-shaped, bright green leaves that form an incredibly dense, low-growing carpet across the foreground of any planted aquascape. One of the smallest aquarium plants available, it creates a stunning, miniature lawn effect that is a hallmark of the nature aquarium style pioneered by Takashi Amano. It thrives under high light and CO2, rewarding dedicated aquarists with a carpet of exceptional beauty and density.

Propagation: Spreads via creeping runners. Plant small portions into the substrate and allow runners to spread naturally. High light and CO2 are strongly recommended for dense, low-growing carpet formation.

Care Guide

• Origin: Australia, New Zealand
• Light: High
• Water Parameters: pH 6.0–7.0 | Temp 18–26°C | Soft to moderately hard water
• CO2 Required: Yes (strongly recommended)
• Fertiliser: Regular liquid fertiliser and root tabs recommended
• Placement: Foreground carpet
• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced
• Max Size: 1–2cm tall; spreading