Barclaya longifolia

Scientific name: Barclaya longifolia

Family: Nymphaecaceae

Maximum size reached under cultivation: 30 - 80 cm (11.81 - 31.5 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness: 2 - 12°dGH (35.71 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 22 - 28 °C (71.6 - 82.4°F)

Preferred propagation method: Rhizome

Native to: Southeast Asia

Growth rate: Normal

Recommended substrate: Fine gravel

Lighting requirements: Medium

Ideal placement in tank: Midground

🌍 Origin

Southeast Asia – particularly in Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. It naturally grows in slow-moving forest streams, shaded pools, and lowland floodplains.

💡 Lighting Requirements

Medium to bright lighting is ideal. Under strong light and with sufficient iron, the leaves may turn a deep burgundy or reddish-brown. In lower light, they remain greener and more elongated. Provide at least 8–10 hours of light daily for best results.

🌱 Propagation

This species reproduces primarily via its rhizome, which is bulb-like in appearance. To propagate:

• Use a sharp, sterilized blade to divide a mature rhizome into viable sections.
• Only bury the roots – not the rhizome itself – to avoid rot.
• Replant each section gently in nutrient-rich substrate.

Flowering can occur above water. While it produces seeds, seed-based propagation is rare and unreliable in aquariums.

⚙️ Difficulty

Easy to Moderate. The plant is generally hardy, but care must be taken during dormancy and when planting rhizomes. Stable water conditions and nutrient support are key.

📍 Placement and Size

Barclaya longifolia can be used as a spectacular midground or background plant in medium to large aquariums. Leaves can grow 30–50 cm long, forming an elegant rosette. It pairs beautifully with driftwood and natural rock layouts.

💧 Water Parameters

Temperature: 22–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–12 dGH)

📆 Seasonal Dormancy

This species may naturally enter a dormancy period during which it sheds most or all of its leaves and halts growth. This is normal. To encourage regrowth, refresh the substrate slightly or relocate the bulb to a different part of the aquarium.

🔬 Care Tips

• Use iron-rich substrate or root tabs for vibrant coloration.
• Supplementing with CO₂ is not required but improves size and leaf density.
• Regular water changes and minimal disturbance during dormancy are advised.

👥 Compatibility

This plant is peaceful and non-invasive. It is safe for most tropical community tanks. However, avoid housing it with herbivorous fish that may nibble on soft new leaves.

📜 Short Description

Barclaya longifolia is a striking ornamental plant valued for its flowing, lance-shaped leaves and rich color variations. Resembling species from the Aponogeton genus, it is, in fact, botanically distinct. It makes a stunning focal point in Southeast Asian biotope tanks or nature-style aquascapes. Though it may pause growth periodically, it rewards aquarists with lush foliage when well cared for.

❓ FAQs

• Why is my Barclaya longifolia losing its leaves?
  Likely entering dormancy – a natural cycle. Be patient and avoid disturbing the rhizome. New growth usually begins in a few weeks.
• Can I grow this plant from seeds?
  Technically yes, but it is difficult in aquarium conditions. Division of the rhizome is the preferred propagation method.
• Will it survive in low light?
  It may survive, but growth will be slower, and leaf coloration less intense. Moderate to bright light is preferred.
• Is it compatible with cichlids?
  Only with non-herbivorous species. Cichlids that dig or bite may damage young leaves or uproot the plant.
• Can it be grown emersed?
  Rarely. Barclaya is primarily suited for submerged cultivation and is not known to thrive long-term in emersed setups.