Dennerle Plants Helanthium tenellum 'Broad Leaf' TC

Helanthium tenellum 'Broad Leaf' is a compact, grass-like foreground plant selected for its broader leaf blades and vibrant mid-green colour. Originally discovered during a Florida plant-collecting expedition in 2012, this unique variety closely resembles the standard Helanthium tenellum but can be distinguished by its wider leaves, which reach up to 2.5 mm in width, and its slightly more compact growth habit.

Its bright green foliage creates a fresh, natural appearance and pairs beautifully with colourful aquarium plants such as Hygrophila pinnatifida. Under good lighting and nutrient-rich conditions, this attractive carpeting plant spreads readily by runners, forming a dense, lush lawn. Regular trimming encourages even denser growth and helps maintain a neat, carpet-like appearance.

Key Plant Specifications

Plant Type: Rosette Plant (Carpeting Plant)
Growth Rate: Medium
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Placement: Foreground
Height: 5–10 cm
Lighting Requirements: Medium to High
CO₂ Requirements: Recommended for faster spreading and denser growth
Propagation: Runners (Plantlets)

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–28°C
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to Medium

Why You'll Love It

• Attractive grass-like foreground plant
• Wider leaf blades than standard Helanthium tenellum
• Bright mid-green colour complements colourful aquascapes
• Spreads naturally by runners to form a dense carpet
• Ideal for nature-style and Iwagumi aquascapes
• Easy to maintain with regular trimming

Plant Profile