Didiplis diandra

Scientific name: Didiplis diandra

Family: Lythraceae

Usual maximum size in aquariums: 10 - 15 cm (3.94 - 5.91 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 7.2

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 12°N (71.43 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

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

Reproduction of the plant: Cuttings

Origin (in the wild): North America

How fast these plants grow: Normal

Recommended substrate: Fine gravel

Demands on lighting: Bright

Ideal placement in a fish tank: Middle

Family

Lythraceae

Common Name

Water Hedge

Origin

North America – primarily in the eastern and central United States. Found along shallow lake edges, marshes, and slow-moving streams.

Planting Area

Midground to foreground placement is ideal. In nano tanks, it can be used even as a background accent.

Lighting Requirements

Bright lighting is essential to maintain the plant’s compact growth and reddish coloration. In lower light, the plant will appear green and more leggy.

Propagation

Didiplis diandra is propagated by stem cuttings. Remove healthy lateral shoots, strip the lower leaves, and insert the stem gently into the substrate without crushing it. Rooting occurs quickly in nutrient-rich substrates.

Difficulty

Medium – although not particularly demanding, it requires stable conditions, strong lighting, and good water quality to thrive and display its best form.

Short Description

Didiplis diandra is a beautiful, fine-leaved stem plant valued for its delicate texture and orange-red coloration under strong light. It is a fully aquatic species that naturally grows submerged but may survive emersed in very wet conditions. Due to its compact size, it’s perfect for creating contrast and adding vibrancy in the midground of planted aquascapes. Regular trimming will keep it bushy and healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is my Didiplis diandra turning green instead of red?

  This plant develops reddish or orange hues only under bright lighting. If the lighting is too weak, the plant will remain green and may grow leggy. Ensure strong full-spectrum lighting and consider CO₂ supplementation.

• Can Didiplis diandra grow without CO₂?

  Yes, but it will grow slower, remain green, and may not form dense, compact growth. For optimal coloration and lushness, CO₂ injection is highly recommended.

• Is Didiplis diandra suitable for beginners?

  It’s better suited for intermediate aquarists. While not overly difficult, it requires stable water parameters, clean water, and strong lighting to maintain its delicate beauty.

• How often should I trim Didiplis diandra?

  Regular trimming is encouraged to maintain a bushy and healthy appearance. Trim when stems reach the surface or begin shading each other, and replant healthy tops if needed.

• Can Didiplis diandra be grown emersed?

  While it is primarily a submerged plant, it can survive in very moist, marsh-like environments for short periods. However, its best appearance is achieved when grown submerged in an aquarium.