Ceratopteris

Ceratopteris is sold as water sprite or Indian fern, and it is one of the easier aquarium plants to get going. The leaves are finely cut and pale green, and growth is quick once the roots take hold. It can be planted in the substrate, where it forms an upright bush, or left floating, where it shades the surface and trails roots that fry and shrimp shelter in.

Moderate light is enough and added CO2 is not needed, though both will speed it up. Because it grows fast it draws nutrients steadily, which is useful in a young tank still finding its balance. Trim it before it blocks light from the plants below.

Placement is midground to background, or floating. Difficulty is low, so it suits a first planted tank. Plant stock rotates as orders arrive, with local pickup at our Lethbridge store.

More species are listed in Live Plants.