Dwarf Baby Tears (Micranthemum callitrichoides)

Dwarf Baby Tears (Micranthemum callitrichoides), often referred to as “HC Cuba,” is one of the most iconic carpeting plants in aquascaping. Known for its tiny, round leaves and vibrant green color, it creates a dense, lush carpet that gives aquariums a refined, miniature landscape appearance.

Native to Cuba, this plant grows low and spreads horizontally by sending out runners, forming a tight, cushion-like mat across the substrate. Its compact growth and delicate texture make it a favorite for creating detailed, high-end aquascapes.

Dwarf Baby Tears requires more attention than many carpeting plants, thriving best in high light and with consistent CO₂ supplementation. When provided with optimal conditions, it produces a stunning, bright green carpet that enhances depth and visual impact.

Key Features

• Tiny, round, bright green leaves
• Forms a dense, compact carpet
• Spreads via runners
• Creates a high-detail, professional aquascape look
• Ideal for Iwagumi and nature-style layouts
• One of the smallest aquarium plants available

Care & Growing Conditions

• Lighting: High (essential for low, compact growth)
• Temperature: 74–82°F
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• Water Flow: Moderate
• CO₂: Strongly recommended
• Propagation: Runners and trimming/replanting

Tip: Trim regularly to encourage horizontal growth and prevent vertical lifting or detachment from the substrate.

Ideal Uses

• Foreground carpeting plant
• Iwagumi and high-detail aquascapes
• Creating a lush “green carpet” effect
• Nano and high-tech planted tanks
• Filling fine-scale layouts

Plant Details

• Scientific Name: Micranthemum callitrichoides
• Common Name: Dwarf Baby Tears (HC Cuba)
• Plant Type: Carpet plant
• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast (with CO₂)
• Placement: Foreground
• Difficulty: Medium to high
• Max Height: 1–2 inches (2–5 cm)