Microsorum pteropus Gold Sparkle Golden-Leaf Java Fern with a Subtle Shimmer

Microsorum pteropus Gold Sparkle, also known as Java Fern Gold Sparkle, is a captivating and rare variety of Java Fern that features delicate gold-tinted leaves with a subtle sparkling effect. Its unique coloration and fine texture add a soft golden glow to any freshwater aquascape, offering both visual contrast and elegance without overwhelming the layout.

Native to Southeast Asia, this variety thrives in low to medium lighting and does not require CO supplementation, making it ideal for low-tech aquariums or beginner hobbyists. Like other Microsorum species, Gold Sparkle should be attached to driftwood, rocks, or decornever buried in substrate, as its rhizome is prone to rot if covered. It grows slowly, requiring minimal maintenance beyond occasional trimming to manage legginess or shape.

At Aquarium Plants Factory, we cultivate this plant in its emersed form. Once introduced into your tank, it transitions well to submerged conditions, adding shimmering texture to your midground or background zones.

Key Features:

• Golden Shimmering Leaves: Unique gold-colored foliage with a soft sparkle under aquarium lighting

• Attachable Growth: Best mounted on hardscapeno need for substrate planting

• Low Maintenance: Perfect for low-tech setups; grows well in low to medium light without CO

• Slow-Growing: Minimal trimming required and easy to manage

• Versatile Placement: Adds refined texture and contrast to midground or background areas

Botanical Information:

• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus Gold Sparkle

• Synonyms: Leptochilus pteropus ‘Gold Sparkle

• Common Names: Java Fern Gold Sparkle

• Plant Type: Rhizome plant

• Placement: Attach to driftwood, stone, or hardscape

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Lighting: Low to Medium

• Origin: Southeast Asia

Optimal Growing Conditions:

• Lighting: Prefers low to medium light; too much light may cause leaf discoloration

• CO & Fertilization: CO is not required; occasional liquid fertilization supports long-term health

• Water Parameters:

  • pH: 6.07.5

  • Temperature: 7282F (2228C)

  • Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

Growth & Propagation:

• CO Requirement: Not required

• Nutrient Substrate: Not required

• Can Grow Emersed: Yes

• Propagation Method: Rhizome division

What Youll Receive:

Sold as loose bare-root plants, bunched plants, or potted plants:

• Bare-root Plants: Approximately 3+ leaf portion, loose rhizome

• Bunched Plants: Approximately 3+ leaf portion bundled with foam and plant weight

• Potted Plants: Approximately 3+ leaf portion, potted in rockwool and net pot

Disclaimer:

Photos are sample representations. Actual plants may vary in size, shape, or coloration. Unless otherwise specified, we do not guarantee plants are free of pests, pesticides, or exclusively submerged-grown.

State Restrictions Notice Be a Responsible Aquatic Plants Owner

Never release Java Fern Gold Sparkleor any aquarium plantinto natural waterways. Always dispose of trimmings and unwanted portions responsibly to protect local ecosystems.