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Lace Fern, also known as African Water Fern, is an elegant aquatic fern prized for its finely divided, dark-green leaves and attractive flowing growth. Its delicate appearance makes it an excellent contrast to broad-leaved plants such as Anubias and Cryptocoryne.

Unlike stem plants, Lace Fern grows from a horizontal rhizome. It is best attached to driftwood, rocks or other hardscape rather than being buried deeply into the substrate. Once established, the rhizome produces new leaves that gradually become larger and more intricate.

Lace Fern is relatively slow-growing and can be a great choice for low-maintenance planted aquariums. It prefers clean, well-oxygenated water and moderate water movement. CO₂ supplementation is not essential, although it can encourage faster growth and larger, healthier leaves.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Bolbitis heudelotii
• Common Name: Lace Fern, African Water Fern
• Type: Rhizome fern
• Family: Dryopteridaceae
• Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Lighting: Low to Moderate
• CO₂: Optional, beneficial
• Placement: Midground or Background
• Growth Height: Approximately 15–40+ cm
• Water Temperature: 20–28°C
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
• Nutrients: Water-column nutrients beneficial
• Propagation: Rhizome division
• Suitable For: Planted aquariums, community tanks and shrimp aquariums
• Attachment: Rocks and driftwood

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Lace Fern be planted in the substrate?

The rhizome should not be buried. Attach the plant to rocks or driftwood and allow the roots to anchor naturally.

Does Lace Fern need CO₂?

No. It can grow without injected CO₂, although supplementation can encourage stronger and faster growth.

What lighting does Lace Fern need?

Low to moderate lighting is generally suitable. Excessively strong lighting can encourage algae growth on its slow-growing leaves.

How do I attach Lace Fern to driftwood?

Use aquarium-safe glue, thread or fishing line to secure the rhizome to the hardscape. Once established, the roots will naturally attach.

Is Lace Fern suitable for shrimp tanks?

Yes. Its intricate leaves provide additional surfaces for biofilm and shelter for shrimp, making it an excellent choice for shrimp aquariums.

How do I propagate Lace Fern?

Propagation is usually done by dividing the rhizome into sections, ensuring each section has healthy roots and leaves.

Common Mistakes

• Burying the rhizome underneath the substrate.
• Exposing the plant to excessively strong lighting.
• Allowing algae to build up on the slow-growing leaves.
• Moving the plant repeatedly before it becomes established.
• Using excessive fertiliser in an attempt to speed up growth.
• Cutting healthy leaves unnecessarily.