Lilaeopsis brasiliensis - Tissue Culture

Lilaeopsis brasiliensis: The Brazilian Micro Sword

Lilaeopsis brasiliensis, most commonly known as the Brazilian Micro Sword or simply Micro Sword, is a popular aquatic foreground plant originating from the wet lowland regions of South America, particularly Brazil. This plant/tissue culture is a favorite among aquascapers for its ability to create a stunning, dense, and lush grass-like carpet across the substrate, often referred to as the "lawn effect."

Unlike some other carpeting plants, Lilaeopsis brasiliensis is relatively forgiving and can survive in a variety of tank conditions, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced hobbyists. However, to achieve a short, compact, and dense carpet, it requires attention to its root fertilization and lighting. It spreads efficiently by sending out runners (stolons) horizontally through the substrate, gradually filling in the space between initial plantings.

Its robust nature allows it to tolerate a wide range of water parameters, including low salt concentrations, making it suitable for certain brackish setups or even outdoor garden ponds.

Care & Growth Profile:

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. It is hardy, but the "lawn effect" requires moderate to high care.
• Growth Habit: It is a Creeping Stolon Plant (runner plant). It spreads horizontally to form a dense carpet. If lighting is insufficient, the plant will grow taller and sparser. Regular trimming promotes denser horizontal growth.
• Lighting: Moderate to High. Moderate light will allow it to survive, but High Light is required to keep the plant short (1−2 inches) and promote the compact, dense carpeting most aquascapers desire.
• Substrate & Fertilization: Heavy Root Feeder. It thrives in a nutrient-rich substrate like aqua soil. If using inert substrate (sand or gravel), regular dosing with root tabs is necessary to fuel its runners and carpet growth. Liquid fertilization is also beneficial.
• CO₂: Recommended. While it can survive without supplemental CO₂ (low-tech), injection is highly recommended to significantly boost its otherwise slow to moderate growth rate, ensuring a much faster and denser carpet formation.
• Water Parameters: Highly adaptable. The ideal temperature range is 68−82°F (20−28°C). It is tolerant of a pH range of 6.0−8.0 and soft to hard water.
• Propagation: Easily propagated by dividing the mother plant into small clumps (approx. 1/8 of a pot) and planting them a few centimeters apart. The plant will then connect the clumps via runners.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Lilaeopsis brasiliensis
• Primary Common Name: Brazilian Micro Sword
• Other Common Names: Micro Sword, Micro Sword Grass, Copragrass
• Origin: South America (Brazil)
• Max Size: 1.5−3 inches (4−7 cm) in a carpet setting
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Root Feeder (Relies heavily on substrate nutrients)
• Minimum Tank Size: 5 Gallons+ (Excellent for Nano Tanks)
• Aquarium Placement: Foreground / Groundcover
• Brackish Tolerance: Yes (Tolerates low salt concentrations)