1 4

Emm's Plant House

Bolbitis Heteroclita Difformis

Bolbitis Heteroclita Difformis

£12.00 GBP
£12.00 GBP
Sale Sold out
Taxes included.

Bolbitis heteroclita ‘Difformis’, also known as Mini Bolbitis, is a compact aquatic or semi-aquatic fern highly valued in terrariums and aquascaping for its fine, deeply lobed fronds and slow, graceful growth. Native to humid, tropical regions of Asia, this miniature form thrives in shaded, high-humidity environments where it can attach to wood, rocks, or substrate.

  • Full Botanical Name: Bolbitis heteroclita ‘Difformis’
  • Common Names: Mini Bolbitis, Asian Water Fern, Bolbitis Difformis
  • Country and/or Region of Origin: Tropical Asia — Philippines, India, Malaysia, and surrounding regions
  • Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Found near rivers, streams, and waterfalls in shaded, humid forests; typically grows on rocks and driftwood where water movement keeps its roots moist

Care Guide

  • Care Guide:
  • Light: Low to medium indirect light; avoid direct sunlight
  • Ideal Room: Terrarium, paludarium, or humid aquarium setting
  • Feeding: In soil or terrarium: apply a diluted fern or general-purpose fertilizer every 8–10 weeks during growth; in aquariums: use liquid aquatic fertilizer or root tabs sparingly
  • Humidity: Requires high humidity (70–95%) for healthy frond development
  • Ideal Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F); avoid drops below 15°C (59°F)
  • Watering: Keep roots consistently moist; never allow the substrate to dry out. When submerged, ensure gentle water movement and clean water to prevent algae buildup.
  • Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic — Bolbitis species, including ‘Difformis’, are safe for cats, dogs, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and humans. Frequently used in aquariums and terrariums with sensitive fauna, making them safe for mixed environments. Avoid ingestion as a precaution against mild digestive irritation.
  • Soil Type: Moist, well-aerated substrate such as sphagnum moss, coco coir, and bark mix; can also be attached to driftwood or rocks with rhizome exposed
  • Propagation: Rhizome division or by detaching side shoots with established roots
  • Eventual Height and Spread: 5–15 cm tall; 15–25 cm spread
  • Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
  • Pests and Treatment: Rare; may occasionally attract algae or snails in aquaria — improve circulation and reduce excess nutrients
  • Repotting: Every 1–2 years; do not bury rhizome when reattaching or repotting
  • Pruning: Trim old or yellowing fronds at the base to encourage fresh growth
  • Air Purification: Helps maintain balanced humidity and supports natural filtration in aquatic setups
  • Folklore: In Southeast Asia, ferns symbolize tranquility and the harmony of nature — often used in homes to attract peaceful energy and balance
    • View full details