Helanthium Tenellum 'Green'

1 clump 

Helanthium Tenellum Green, also known as Pygmy chain swords, is a budget friendly, self propagating foreground grass with thinner leaves leaves that maintain a low height.

This plant is probably my favorite carpeting plant due to its unique appearance, hardiness and ease of growth!

Pygmy Chain Swords are small, grass-like aquarium plants that are often used to create a carpeting effect in the foreground of aquariums. Here are the care requirements for Pygmy Chain Swords:

**1. Lighting:**
- Moderate to high lighting is suitable for Pygmy Chain Swords. Higher light levels promote compact growth and a lush carpet.

**2. Substrate:**
- Use a nutrient-rich substrate. Pygmy Chain Swords benefit from a substrate with added nutrients. Fine-grain substrates like aquasoil or specialized planted tank substrates work well.

**3. CO2 Injection:**
- While not strictly necessary, providing a source of CO2 can enhance growth, especially in setups with higher light. However, Pygmy Chain Swords can grow well without additional CO2.

**4. Fertilization:**
- Regularly dose a balanced liquid fertilizer or use root tabs to provide essential nutrients. Being a carpeting plant, Pygmy Chain Swords can benefit from nutrient supplementation.

**5. Water Parameters:**
- Maintain stable and optimal water conditions.
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is suitable.

**6. Water Flow:**
- Provide gentle water circulation. Pygmy Chain Swords can tolerate gentle to moderate water movement.

**7. Planting Density:**
- Plant Pygmy Chain Swords densely for the best carpet effect. Plant small portions close to each other to encourage horizontal growth and coverage.

**8. Pruning:**
- Regular pruning is beneficial to prevent overgrowth. Trim the tips of the leaves as needed to maintain the desired carpet height.

**9. Tank Mates:**
- Pygmy Chain Swords are compatible with various aquarium inhabitants. They provide hiding places for small fish and fry and contribute to a natural-looking environment.

**10. Algae Control:**
- Good tank hygiene helps prevent algae growth. Regular water changes, proper filtration, and avoiding overfeeding contribute to a healthy environment for Pygmy Chain Swords.

**11. Carpet Formation:**
- Patience is key. It may take some time for Pygmy Chain Swords to spread and form a complete carpet. Be consistent with care, and the carpet will gradually become denser.

**12. Propagation:**
- Pygmy Chain Swords propagate by sending out runners, producing new plantlets. You can encourage its spread by allowing these runners to grow or replanting the new plantlets.

By providing the right conditions and maintaining a consistent care routine, you can successfully grow a lush carpet of Pygmy Chain Swords in your aquarium. Adjustments may be needed based on the specific conditions of your tank and the needs of other aquatic inhabitants.