Blyxa novoguineensis Care Guide
Blyxa novoguineensis is a grass-like rosette plant in Hydrocharitaceae; the aquarium trade plant is often a reddish form linked to Blyxa aubertii.
Overview
Blyxa novoguineensis is a bushy rosette plant with grass-like submerged leaves. The true species is accepted in Hydrocharitaceae, but plant-database editors note that the reddish plant sold in the hobby under this name is doubtfully the genuine New Guinea species and is frequently a red form linked to Blyxa aubertii. In the aquarium it shows green to reddish coloration depending on conditions.
Taxonomy
- Family: Hydrocharitaceae
- Genus: Blyxa
- Scientific name: Blyxa novoguineensis
- Author: Hartog (1957)
Habitat
According to Plants of the World Online (Kew), the true Blyxa novoguineensis is native to New Guinea, recorded from southern Papua New Guinea (Lake Daviumbu), with the Philippines (Luzon) noted as doubtfully present. It grows in wet tropical biomes.
Growth requirements
- Light: medium
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 3-12 °dGH
- Growth rate: medium
- Maximum height: about 25 cm
Placement
The soft, grass-like rosette suits the midground to foreground, where it brings a natural look to a layout.
Propagation
Propagation is by cuttings or by separating side shoots and replanting them.