Nesaea crassicaulis

Scientific name: Nesaea crassicaulis

Family: Lythraceae

Maximum size reached under cultivation: 30 - 50 cm (11.81 - 19.69 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6 - 8

Recommended water hardness: 0 - 12°dGH (0 - 214.29ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

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

Preferred propagation method: Cuttings

Native to: Africa

Growth rate: Normal

Recommended substrate: Fine gravel

Lighting requirements: Bright

Ideal placement in tank: Background

Family

Lythraceae

Common Name

Nesaea Red Stem

Propagation

Nesaea crassicaulis reproduces easily through cuttings. Healthy side shoots or stem tops can be trimmed and replanted in the substrate. Before planting, remove the bottom pairs of leaves to expose a short length of stem, which should then be carefully inserted into the substrate without crushing it. Within a few weeks, the cutting will develop a root system and begin growing as an independent plant. Regular pruning of mature stems promotes bushier growth and helps maintain the desired shape.

Difficulty

Medium to High. While propagation is simple, maintaining vibrant growth and color requires strong lighting, nutrient-rich water, and, ideally, CO₂ supplementation. Without these, the plant may lose lower leaves and become leggy or pale.

Short Description

Native to eastern and southeastern Africa, Nesaea crassicaulis is a striking stem plant prized for its reddish-brown leaves and yellow-green stems. It typically reaches heights of 30 to 50 cm (11.81 – 19.69 inches) and adds a vibrant contrast to background plantings in high-tech aquariums. Under bright lighting, the plant displays intense coloration; under lower light, growth slows, and the color may fade. It's essential that light reaches the lower portions of the plant—otherwise, lower leaves may drop, leaving bare stems.

Unlike some aquatic plants, Nesaea crassicaulis does not tolerate shade well and performs best with direct, unobstructed lighting. In aquascaping, it adds a dramatic vertical element and is particularly effective in Dutch-style layouts or color-focused scapes.

Maintenance and Care

This species thrives in soft to moderately hard water with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. The ideal temperature range is 22 – 28°C (71.6 – 82.4°F). It prefers nutrient-rich water and benefits from root fertilization as well as liquid dosing. Strong lighting (0.5–1 W per liter) is essential to maintain compact growth and rich coloration. CO₂ injection, while not strictly required, is highly recommended for optimal results. Regular trimming helps control its height and encourages side shoot development.

Compatibility

Nesaea crassicaulis is compatible with most peaceful tropical fish and invertebrates. Its dense stems can provide cover for small species, but its delicate structure is not suitable for tanks with large herbivores or rough fish. The plant should be placed where it receives ample light and space to grow vertically without crowding from larger-leaved species.

Submersion and Aquascaping

This plant grows well fully submerged but can also adapt to emersed conditions in shallow, humid setups. Emersed forms often differ in leaf shape and texture and may even produce flowers. In aquascaping, Nesaea crassicaulis is best used as a colorful background element in high-tech tanks. It pairs well with green stem plants or contrasting red species, offering a layered visual depth. For best results, plant individual stems slightly apart to allow light penetration and airflow between plants.