Sagittaria platyphylla

Scientific name: Sagittaria platyphylla

Family: Alismataceae

Usual maximum size in aquariums: 15 - 40 cm (5.91 - 15.75 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 5.7 - 8

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

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 19 - 26 °C (66.2 - 78.8°F)

Reproduction of the plant: Runners

Origin (in the wild): North America

How fast these plants grow: Normal

Recommended substrate: Gravel

Demands on lighting: Medium

Ideal placement in a fish tank: Middle

Common Name

Broadleaf Arrowhead

Origin

North America, especially southeastern United States such as Louisiana, Florida, and Mississippi, where it grows in marshes, ditches, and slow-moving rivers.

Propagation

This plant reproduces via runners that grow horizontally through the substrate. Tiny plantlets form along these runners and develop their own roots before detaching naturally from the mother plant. If not managed, it can quickly spread and cover large portions of the substrate. To control growth, simply trim or remove the runners as needed.

Lighting Requirements

Medium lighting is sufficient, but growth will be more robust and compact under stronger light. In low light, the leaves may elongate in search of light, reducing the plant’s aesthetic appeal.

Difficulty

Easy

Short Description

Sagittaria platyphylla is a hardy and versatile aquatic plant suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. It thrives in a wide range of water conditions, tolerating both soft and moderately hard water, and pH values from acidic to slightly alkaline. This makes it an ideal choice for community aquariums.

The plant develops broad, slightly wavy green leaves that can grow submersed or emersed depending on conditions. In aquariums, it is commonly used in the midground, though in larger tanks it can serve as a foreground carpeting plant due to its spreading nature. It appreciates a nutrient-rich gravel substrate and benefits from occasional root tabs or fertilization.

It may go through a short adaptation period after planting, but once established, it will steadily spread and form a lush green bed. Due to its tolerance and ease of care, it's often used in aquascaping and biotope setups.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can Sagittaria platyphylla grow without CO₂ injection?

  Yes, it can grow well without CO₂ injection. However, with added CO₂ and sufficient lighting, the plant will grow faster and produce more compact leaves.

• How fast does Sagittaria platyphylla spread?

  Under ideal conditions, it spreads at a moderate rate via runners. In nutrient-rich substrates with good lighting, expect visible spreading within a few weeks after planting.

• Can it be grown in a low-tech aquarium?

  Yes, it is one of the best choices for low-tech setups due to its hardiness and low demand for CO₂. Just make sure it receives enough light and a decent substrate.

• Why are the leaves turning yellow?

  Yellowing leaves usually indicate a nutrient deficiency—especially nitrogen, potassium, or iron. Try adding a complete liquid fertilizer or root tabs near the plant.

• How do I stop it from overtaking my aquarium?

  Regularly trim runners before they establish new plantlets, or remove unwanted daughter plants by gently pulling them out with the roots attached.