Orchid Lily care guide
Orchid Lily (Barclaya longifolia) — medium light, 24-30 °C, pH 5.5-7, no CO2.
Overview
Orchid Lily (Barclaya longifolia) is an aquatic plant of the family Nymphaeaceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as an intermediate-level species. It is typically grown under medium light and without obligatory CO2 injection on nutrient-rich aquasoil. An exquisite bulb plant with long, wavy, olive-green to deep reddish-brown leaves. Often considered one of the most beautiful aquarium plants. Requires stable conditions but rewards the aquarist with stunning foliage and occasional underwater flowers.
Taxonomy
- Family: Nymphaeaceae
- Genus: Barclaya
- Scientific name: Barclaya longifolia
- Common synonyms: Barclaya longifolia
Habitat
Barclaya longifolia (Nymphaeaceae) is a tuberous aquatic plant from soft, slightly acidic forest streams of South-East Asia. Wild populations occur in shaded, slow-flowing water above leaf litter. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from Southeast Asia.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 24-30 °C (75-86 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7
- GH: 2-8 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil
- Maximum height: 40 cm
- Growth rate: medium
- Recommended placement: midground
Placement
Midground accent tuber; the elongated reddish leaves form an upright rosette. Nutrient-rich substrate with root tabs supports steady growth. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the midground under medium light and without obligatory CO2 injection, using nutrient-rich aquasoil.
Propagation
Reproduces by self-fertilised seed (cleistogamous flowers) and by daughter tubers; mature tubers can be lifted and divided. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: adventitious plantlets.
Common issues
Sensitive to large parameter swings and disturbance; established plants are better left in place during routine maintenance.