Blyxa aubertii

Scientific name: Blyxa aubertii

Family: Hydrocharitaceae

Maximum size reached under cultivation: 10 - 25 cm (3.94 - 9.84 inch)

014

Recommended pH range: 5 - 7

Recommended water hardness: 0 - 10°dGH (0 - 178.57ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°F)

Preferred propagation method: Lateral shoots

Native to: South Asia

Growth rate: Normal

Recommended substrate: Fine gravel

Lighting requirements: Bright

Ideal placement in tank: Middle

Common Name

Bamboo Plant (not to be confused with Lucky Bamboo or true bamboo species)

Origin

Blyxa aubertii is native to Southeast Asia, including regions such as India, Thailand, and Indonesia. It thrives in slow-moving freshwater environments like marshes, riverbanks, and floodplains, where it grows fully submerged in nutrient-rich waters.

Growing Conditions

Blyxa aubertii is a fully submersed aquatic plant that does not adapt well to emersed growth. It requires bright lighting to maintain its health and lush appearance. Insufficient lighting can cause the plant to deteriorate, leading to rotting and disintegration. To support its optimal growth, provide a fine gravel substrate rich in nutrients. CO₂ supplementation and fertilization will help maintain its vibrant color and encourage healthy leaf production.

The plant typically reaches heights of 10 - 25 cm (3.94 - 9.84 inches), making it an excellent choice for the midground in aquascaping. It thrives in stable conditions with a pH range of 5 - 7 and water hardness between 0 - 10 dGH. It prefers a temperature range of 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°F).

Lighting Requirements

Bright lighting is essential for Blyxa aubertii. If light intensity is too low, the plant may weaken, turn yellow, or begin to rot. To maintain a lush, healthy appearance, it is recommended to provide at least 8–10 hours of strong lighting per day. Adding iron-rich fertilizers can enhance the plant’s color and promote robust growth.

Planting Area

Blyxa aubertii is best suited for the midground of an aquarium. Its bushy, grass-like appearance provides an excellent transition between the foreground and taller background plants. When planted in clusters, it creates a dense, natural look, adding texture to aquascapes. It pairs well with rocks and driftwood in planted tanks.

Propagation

Blyxa aubertii primarily reproduces through lateral shoots. Over time, the plant produces offshoots at its base, which can be carefully separated and replanted in the substrate to encourage new growth. Although it does flower under optimal conditions, obtaining viable seeds is difficult, making vegetative propagation the preferred method.

Flowering is rare in aquariums and occurs mainly under emersed or near-surface growth in open-top setups.

Difficulty

This plant is considered moderately difficult to grow due to its specific lighting and water parameter requirements. It thrives in soft, acidic water with good nutrient availability. While CO₂ supplementation is not mandatory, it significantly improves growth and overall plant health. Regular trimming of older leaves and offshoots helps maintain its shape and prevents overcrowding.

Short Description

Blyxa aubertii, commonly known as the Bamboo Plant, is a unique midground species highly valued in aquascaping for its fine, grass-like leaves and dense growth pattern. Under high light and nutrient-rich conditions, it produces up to 100 leaves per plant, creating a lush, vibrant effect in an aquarium. The plant occasionally develops delicate flowers with stems reaching the water’s surface, though many aquarists choose to trim them to prevent shading.

Due to its sensitivity to lighting and water conditions, Blyxa aubertii is best suited for experienced aquarists looking to create a visually appealing planted tank. When well-maintained, it enhances the aquascape with its soft, flowing leaves and natural appearance.