Hygrophila polysperma

Scientific name: Hygrophila polysperma

Family: Acanthaceae

Usual maximum size in aquariums: 25 - 45 cm (9.84 - 17.72 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 21 - 26 °C (69.8 - 78.8°F)

Reproduction of the plant: Cuttings

Origin (in the wild): South Asia

How fast these plants grow: Fast

Recommended substrate: Gravel

Demands on lighting: Bright

Ideal placement in a fish tank: Background

Common Name

Indian waterweed

Propagation

Cuttings; simply take a cutting from the mother plant and remove the bottom leaves. This can then be placed into the substrate taking care not to crush the stem. In a short time the cutting will produce roots and a new plant is formed. Ensure that the cuttings receive plenty of nutrients in the water to promote quicker root growth.

Difficulty

Easy

Short Description

This has to be the hardiest plant available for the aquarium. The main problem with this plant is to stop it taking over the aquarium, to prevent this prune it on a regular basis removing wandering shoots etc. Even leaves that settle on the substrate are capable of forming new plants to keep these out of the tank as soon as they are spotted.