Hemianthus glomeratus (Pearlweed) – ADA Tissue Culture

Hemianthus glomeratus, commonly known as Pearlweed, is a versatile and attractive aquatic plant that can be used as a carpeting plant, foreground accent, or even a midground bush in aquascaping. Pearlweed is loved by aquascapers for its small, rounded, bright green leaves that provide a fine, delicate texture to any planted tank. It is suitable for both high-tech and low-tech setups, offering a wide range of aquascaping possibilities.

This plant is provided in an ADA Tissue Culture, which guarantees that it is pest-free, algae-free, and grown in sterile conditions. Tissue culture plants are the perfect way to start a new aquascape with healthy and vibrant plants.

Detailed Care Guide:

Tank Requirements:

• Lighting: Medium to high lighting is recommended to keep Hemianthus glomeratus growing compactly and to encourage healthy leaf growth. Under lower light conditions, it may grow taller and less compact.
• Substrate: Pearlweed prefers nutrient-rich substrates, but it will also grow well in inert substrates if supplemented with root tabs and liquid fertilizers. Fine-grain substrate is ideal for holding its delicate root system.
• CO2: While CO2 injection is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for promoting dense, bushy growth. In CO2-enriched tanks, Pearlweed will grow faster and more compact, making it an excellent carpeting plant.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 68°F – 78°F (20°C – 26°C)
  • pH: 6.0 – 7.5
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2 – 15 dGH)

Tissue Culture Preparation and Planting:

1. Opening the Tissue Culture: Begin by carefully opening the ADA Tissue Culture container. Tissue culture plants are packaged in a nutrient-rich gel that helps protect the plant during transport and keeps it in optimal condition.
2. Rinsing the Plant: Gently remove the plant from the container and rinse it thoroughly under lukewarm water to remove all of the gel. Make sure all the gel is removed, as it can affect water quality and contribute to algae growth if left in the tank.
3. Dividing the Plant: Once rinsed, gently divide the plant into small clumps or individual stems. Since Pearlweed is fine-leaved, you can break it into smaller portions for planting, which will help it spread quickly.
4. Planting: Use aquascaping tweezers to insert the small clumps or stems into the substrate. Plant each clump a few centimeters apart to allow for lateral spread and carpeting. If you’re using this plant for midground or background purposes, you can plant it in denser clusters for a bushy appearance.
5. Initial Care: After planting, reduce lighting to prevent algae, especially in the early stages when the plant is adjusting to the aquarium. Gradually increase the photoperiod to 6-8 hours per day as the plant starts growing.

Maintenance:

• Trimming: Hemianthus glomeratus grows relatively quickly under the right conditions, and regular trimming is needed to maintain its compact form. Frequent trimming will encourage horizontal growth and promote a dense carpet or bush-like structure.
• Fertilization: Pearlweed benefits from regular fertilization, particularly with liquid fertilizers that provide macronutrients (NPK) and micronutrients. For even better growth, consider supplementing with CO2 and root tabs.
• Water Changes: Regular water changes (20-30% weekly) are important to maintain water quality and prevent nutrient imbalances, especially if using high light and CO2.

Growth and Propagation:

Pearlweed propagates via runners and stems, making it easy to propagate. Simply trim the plant and replant the cuttings to spread it across your tank. It will root quickly and start spreading both horizontally and vertically.

Ideal Tank Setup:

Hemianthus glomeratus is suitable for tanks of all sizes, from nano tanks to larger aquascapes. It is especially effective in Iwagumi or Dutch-style layouts, where its bright green color and small leaves can create a lush carpet or fill in empty spaces. It can also be used in paludariums or terrariums as an emersed plant, where it will thrive in moist environments.

Summary:

Hemianthus glomeratus is a versatile and fast-growing plant, ideal for aquarists looking to create a lush green carpet or bushy foreground in their aquascapes. Its fine leaves and delicate growth make it a standout plant in any tank. Provided as an ADA Tissue Culture, this product is guaranteed to be free from pests, algae, and contaminants, ensuring a healthy start for your aquarium. With the right care, Pearlweed will quickly establish itself and provide a dense, vibrant green addition to your aquascape.

Add Hemianthus glomeratus to your cart today and create a vibrant green carpet in your aquarium!