Helanthium tenellum ‘Broad Leaf’ – Tissue Culture – Hardy Foreground Carpet Plant with Wider Blades
Helanthium tenellum ‘Broad Leaf’ is a robust foreground aquarium plant known for its wider leaf blades and faster, more forgiving growth compared to narrow-leaf varieties. It forms a low, spreading carpet that adds a natural meadow look to planted aquariums, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced aquascapers alike.
Grown in sterile tissue culture, Helanthium tenellum ‘Broad Leaf’ is free from algae, snails, and pests, making it ideal for shrimp tanks and sensitive planted aquariums. With proper lighting and nutrients, it spreads via runners to create a dense foreground, and under higher light can develop subtle bronze to reddish hues.
Easy to Moderate
Peaceful (Plant)
Height: 2–4 inches (5–10 cm)
Perennial (with proper care)
Nutrient Uptake – Absorbs nutrients primarily through roots; benefits from nutrient-rich substrate, root tabs, and regular liquid fertilization
Nano tanks and larger planted aquariums
Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
pH: 5.5–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
Ideal foreground carpeting plant
Shrimp-safe and compatible with all peaceful fish
Excellent alternative to dwarf hairgrass for natural layouts
Spreads via runners and responds well to trimming
Rinse tissue culture gel thoroughly before planting
Separate into small portions and space evenly for faster carpeting
Moderate to high lighting promotes compact growth
CO₂ is beneficial but not strictly required for success
