Description
Giant Baby Tears (Micranthemum umbrosum) is a lush and fast-growing freshwater aquarium plant known for its small, rounded green leaves and soft, bushy appearance. Often confused with Dwarf Baby Tears, this plant features larger leaves and taller growth, making it a perfect choice for aquarists who want a vibrant, natural look without the demanding requirements of true carpeting plants.
Thanks to its adaptability and ease of care, the Giant Baby Tears aquarium plant is ideal for both beginners and experienced hobbyists. It thrives in low to moderate lighting, grows well without CO₂, and quickly fills in open spaces, adding depth and movement to planted aquariums. Whether used as a foreground accent, midground filler, or even a background bush in nano tanks, this plant delivers outstanding visual impact with minimal effort.
At our Splashy Fish tropical fish store, our Giant Baby Tears and other aquarium plants are carefully selected and packed with love! Visit us to buy them online or at our aquarium store in Virginia for a wide selection of freshwater fish for sale, betta fish for sale, freshwater shrimp for sale, and aquarium supplies.
Why Choose Giant Baby Tears?
Bright green, rounded leaves: Creates a soft, natural aquascape look.
Easy to grow & beginner-friendly: Thrives in low-tech aquariums.
Faster growth than Dwarf Baby Tears: Fills space quickly and evenly.
Low to moderate light tolerant: No high-intensity lighting required.
Safe for fish and shrimp: Provides shelter and grazing areas for aquatic life.
Versatile placement: Works well as foreground, midground, or nano-tank background.
How to Plant Giant Baby Tears in Your Aquarium
Rinse the plant gently to remove any gel or debris before planting.
Separate into small clumps for better spacing and fuller growth.
Plant each clump into the substrate using aquascaping tweezers.
Space portions slightly apart to allow light and water circulation.
Trim regularly to maintain compact, bushy growth and prevent shading.
Tip: Unlike HC Cuba, Giant Baby Tears does not require CO₂ to spread, making it an excellent alternative for low-tech planted tanks.
How to Care for Giant Baby Tears
pH: 6.0 – 7.8
Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
Lighting: Low to moderate (20–40 PAR). Brighter light promotes denser growth
CO₂: Optional. Enhances growth but is not required
Fertilization: Benefits from liquid fertilizers and nutrient-rich substrate
Placement: Foreground to midground in most aquariums; background in nano tanks
