Description
Micranthemum callitrichoides ‘Cuba’, commonly known as HC Cuba, is one of the most sought-after foreground carpeting plants in aquascaping. Renowned for its extremely small, round leaves and dense, low-growing habit, this freshwater aquarium plant creates a fine-textured, vibrant green carpet that gives aquascapes a clean, professional finish.
Native to Cuba, HC Cuba is a high-demand plant that requires stable conditions to thrive. It performs best under moderate to high lighting and benefits greatly from COâ‚‚ injection and regular fertilization, which promote compact growth, faster spreading, and strong root development. Without sufficient light or COâ‚‚, growth may be slow and inconsistent.
Micranthemum callitrichoides ‘Cuba’ spreads by creeping runners and quickly anchors into nutrient-rich substrate, forming a tight, uniform carpet when trimmed regularly. Due to its small leaf size, stable water parameters and good circulation are essential to prevent algae buildup. While considered an advanced-level plant, the visual reward is unmatched for aquarists aiming for high-end aquascapes.
HC Cuba is ideal for nature-style, Iwagumi, and competition-level aquascapes, where scale and detail are critical. It is also shrimp-safe and provides excellent grazing and shelter areas. With patience, proper lighting, and care, Micranthemum callitrichoides ‘Cuba’ becomes a stunning focal point in the foreground of any planted aquarium.
