Lindernia rotundifolia
Scientific name: Lindernia rotundifolia
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Usual maximum size in aquariums: 20 - 30 cm (7.87 - 11.81 inch)
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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 8
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 18 - 28 °C (64.4 - 82.4°F)
Reproduction of the plant: Lateral shoots
Origin (in the wild): East Asia
How fast these plants grow: Fast
Recommended substrate: Fine gravel
Demands on lighting: Bright
Ideal placement in a fish tank: Middle
Common Name
Baby’s Tears
Planting Area
Midground to Background
Propagation
This plant can be propagated in a couple of ways. It will produce lateral side shoots that become attached to the substrate. If the plant is partially submerged, the stems that are out of the water will produce flowers. From these seeds will be formed which can be germinated to produce new plants. It is a common practice to obtain extra plants from the mother plant by pulling off side shoots and allowing them to float in the aquarium, in time these will develop their own root system and can then be planted directly into the substrate.
Difficulty
Easy
Short Description
This is a very fast growing plant that is classed as a weed by many horticulturists, many companies now refuse to propagate this plant as they look at it as a pest. In the aquarium it deserves a place amongst the foliage and it plays an important part removing nitrates from the water. To improve growth, add nutrients to the water and use a CO2 system in the aquarium.
The leaves display a marbled effect and can provide a great addition to the planted aquarium if placed correctly. They should be planted as a background plant but they can also be used effectively as a midground specimen plant to great effect. Recently they have fell out of favour with some planted tank keepers who see them as a boring weed but given the right situation they are ideal for beginners to planted aquariums and can be used effectively.
In their natural habitat they can be found on river banks and at the sides of most waterways but are just as happy to be submersed in the aquarium.