Product Review
Monte Carlo (Micranthemum tweediei) is a popular carpeting plant in aquascaping, known for its vibrant green, low-growing structure that spreads quickly, creating a lush, dense carpet across the aquarium floor. This tissue culture (TC) variant ensures a pest-free, algae-free, and disease-free start, making it ideal for high-quality planted tanks. It thrives in high-light and CO₂-injected setups, making it a perfect choice for both beginners and advanced aquascapers.
Specifications
Scientific Name: Micranthemum tweediei ‘Monte Carlo’
Common Names: Monte Carlo, MC, New Large Pearl Grass
Plant Type: Carpet Plant
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
Height: 3-5 cm
Lighting Requirements: Medium to High
CO₂ Requirement: Moderate to High recommended for best growth
Water Conditions:
Temperature: 20°C – 28°C
pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderate
Substrate: Nutrient-rich soil preferred
Propagation: By runners spreading across the substrate
Key Points
Premium Tissue Culture Plant – Pest-free, algae-free, and healthy start
Fast-Spreading Carpet Plant – Creates a lush, green floor in aquariums
Easy to Maintain – More beginner-friendly than HC Cuba
Thrives in High-Tech Tanks – Grows best with CO₂ and good lighting
Safe for Fish & Shrimp – Provides shelter and grazing areas
Usage
Best for foreground carpeting in planted aquariums
Enhances Nature-style, Iwagumi, and Dutch aquascapes
Provides hiding spaces for shrimp and small fish
Can be used in nano tanks and large aquariums alike
Usage Tips
Plant in small clusters a few centimeters apart for faster spreading
Use strong lighting and CO₂ injection for a dense, compact carpet
Ensure good water circulation to distribute nutrients evenly
Trim regularly to maintain an even carpet and prevent overgrowth
Use root fertilizers and liquid nutrients for optimal growth
Note
Can grow vertically in low light instead of spreading
May melt initially but will recover with stable conditions
Requires consistent CO₂ and nutrients for the best carpeting effect