Lilaeopsis Novaezelandiae

Plant Profile

• Scientific Name: Lilaeopsis novaezelandiae
• Common Name: Micro Sword (NZ Type), New Zealand Grass Plant
• Origin: New Zealand
• Height: 2–5 cm (0.8–2 inches)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Care: Moderate – requires patience and stable conditions
• Light: Medium to High – strong light helps maintain compact, dense carpeting
• CO₂: Recommended – CO₂ promotes faster and healthier carpet formation
• Propagation: Runners – spreads through horizontal runners that form new shoots
• Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate

• Additional Notes:

  • Often used for carpeting the foreground of aquariums.
  • Resembles grass and creates a clean, natural meadow-like look.
  • Needs a nutrient-rich substrate or regular root tab fertilization.
  • It can be outcompeted by faster-growing plants if not given enough light and nutrients.
  • Patience is key – takes time to establish a full carpet.