Lilaeopsis novaezlandiae (Micro Sword)

Micro Sword, Lilaeopsis novaezlandiae, is a delicate and elegant carpeting plant native to New Zealand and Australia, prized in the aquarium hobby for its slender, bright green, grass-like blades that form a dense, lush lawn in the foreground of planted tanks. One of the most popular foreground carpeting plants in the hobby, it creates a beautiful, naturalistic meadow effect that complements any aquascape style — from nature aquariums to Dutch tanks. It is best suited to moderate to high light conditions for optimal carpet density.

Propagation: Spreads via creeping runners. Plant individual portions into the substrate and allow runners to spread naturally. Higher light and CO2 accelerate carpet formation.

Care Guide

• Origin: New Zealand, Australia
• Light: Medium to High
• Water Parameters: pH 6.0–7.5 | Temp 18–28°C | Soft to moderately hard water
• CO2 Required: No (CO2 significantly improves carpet density)
• Fertiliser: Benefits from root tabs and regular liquid fertiliser
• Placement: Foreground carpet
• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
• Max Size: 5–10cm tall; spreading