How do I attach Flame Moss to driftwood?

You can attach it securely using cotton thread, clear fishing line, or aquarium-safe cyanoacrylate superglue. Over time, the moss will attach itself to the wood organically.

Why is my Flame Moss turning brown?

Browning is usually caused by a lack of nutrients, poor water flow leading to debris build-up, or insufficient lighting. Ensure the moss is not buried in the substrate, as the buried sections will rot.

Does Flame Moss require CO2 injection?

No, Flame Moss will grow perfectly well without injected CO2. However, adding CO2 will result in faster, noticeably denser, and more vibrant growth.

Can I plant Flame Moss directly in gravel?

No, Flame Moss is an epiphyte. If you bury its base in gravel or soil, the plant will eventually rot. It must be attached to a hard surface like rock or wood.

How fast does Flame Moss grow?

Under low-tech conditions, it grows quite slowly. With medium lighting, liquid fertilisers, and CO2, its growth rate increases to moderate.

FreshwaterPlantsBeginner

Flame Moss

Taxiphyllum sp. 'Flame'

A highly distinctive, upward-growing aquatic moss that naturally spirals to resemble green campfire flames.

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Ideal Conditions

Temperature: 20 – 28 °C
pH range: 6 – 7.5
Hardness: 2 – 15 dGH
Adult size: 5 – 10 cm
Nano tank: 5 litres+
Lifespan: 1 – 5 years
Diet: Photosynthesis; absorbs nutrients directly from the water column.
Water flow: Moderate
Preferred setup: Attach to wood, rocks, or mesh. Do not bury in the substrate.

About the Flame Moss

Flame Moss (Taxiphyllum sp. 'Flame') is a highly sought-after plant in the aquarium hobby, renowned for its entirely unique growth pattern. Unlike other aquatic mosses that tend to branch outward or droop, this species displays a distinctive vertical habit. Its fronds naturally twist and curl as they grow upwards, creating an appearance that beautifully mimics small, vibrant green flames. Because of this architectural quality, it is exceptionally popular in aquascaping for creating the illusion of miniature forests or soft textural accents against hardscape.

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Where Flame Moss comes from

Native range

Asia

Countries / regions

Habitat

Found growing attached to rocks, roots, and submerged wood in coldwater streams and shaded, flowing rivers.

Exact wild origins are undocumented, as it was popularised through the commercial aquarium trade in East Asia.

Similar species

Java Moss
Taxiphyllum barbieri
Christmas Moss
Vesicularia montagnei
Weeping Moss
Vesicularia ferriei

We’re adding more full species guides as the catalogue grows.

Compatible tank mates

Reviewed guidance based on this species' recorded traits.

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Cherry Shrimp
Neocaridina davidi
Shrimp will actively graze on the biofilm and micro-organisms that naturally develop within the moss, keeping it clean.
Great
Ember Tetra
Hyphessobrycon amandae
Small, peaceful fish that appreciate the cover provided by aquatic mosses and will not attempt to eat the plant.
Great
Pygmy Corydoras
Corydoras pygmaeus
Gentle bottom dwellers that will forage around the moss without uprooting or damaging the delicate fronds.
Great
Siamese Algae Eater
Crossocheilus oblongus
While excellent for algae control, they may occasionally nibble on the fine shoots of the moss if natural food is scarce.
Compatible with caution
Goldfish
Carassius auratus
Goldfish are notorious for eating and uprooting aquatic plants and will easily destroy delicate mosses.
Not recommended

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