Aponogeton Ulvaceus (Aponogeton ulvaceus) Care Guide
A bulb plant with large translucent wavy leaves that create an elegant flowing effect in the aquarium.
Overview
Aponogeton ulvaceus is an aquatic plant in the family Aponogetonaceae. A bulb plant with large translucent wavy leaves that create an elegant flowing effect in the aquarium. Grows from a bulb and may enter a dormancy period where leaves die back before resprouting with renewed vigor.
Taxonomy
- Family: Aponogetonaceae
- Genus: Aponogeton
- Scientific name: Aponogeton ulvaceus
- Other names: Compact Aponogeton
Habitat
Endemic to Madagascar, where it grows in seasonally flowing streams and rivers. Develops a tuberous bulb that allows the plant to survive dry periods by shedding its leaves; growth resumes with the next wet season.
Growth requirements
- Light: medium (≈50-80 PAR at substrate)
- CO2: optional (CO2 improves growth and coloration)
- Temperature: 22-28 °C
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil or fertilised gravel
- Nutrient demand: medium
- Growth rate: fast
- Difficulty: intermediate
Placement
- Recommended placement: background
- Maximum height: 50 cm
- Trim every: 14 days
Propagation
In cultivation the plant is propagated by vegetative division or fragmentation.