Hygrophila Polysperma

Hygrophila polysperma is one of the easiest and fastest-growing aquarium stem plants. It is popular because it adapts to almost any freshwater aquarium.

Since it grows so quickly, it’s excellent for:

• Absorbing excess nutrients.
• Helping reduce algae in newly set-up tanks.
• Creating a dense background when trimmed regularly.

Here are its main characteristics:

• Leaves: Small, oval to slightly lance-shaped, growing in opposite pairs along the stem.
• Color: Usually bright green. Under strong lighting, the top leaves can develop pink, bronze, or reddish tones (especially cultivars like ‘Rosanervig’ or ‘Sunset’).
• Height: Typically 20–50 cm, but can grow even taller.
• Growth rate: Very fast. It often needs trimming every 1–2 weeks.
• Difficulty: Very easy, making it ideal for beginners.

For good growth:

• Light: Medium to high (it also survives in low light, but grows leggier).
• CO₂: Not required, though CO₂ makes it grow denser and faster.
• Fertilizer: Benefits from regular nitrate, phosphate, potassium, and trace elements, especially iron.
• Temperature: 24–28°C.