Cryptocoryne Affinis (Cryptocoryne affinis) Care Guide

One of the hardiest Cryptocorynes with distinctive dark-green upper leaf surfaces and reddish-purple undersides. Extremely tolerant of varying conditions and resistant to the dreaded crypt melt.

Overview

Cryptocoryne affinis is an aquatic plant in the family Araceae. One of the hardiest Cryptocorynes with distinctive dark-green upper leaf surfaces and reddish-purple undersides. Extremely tolerant of varying conditions and resistant to the dreaded crypt melt.

Taxonomy

Family: Araceae
Genus: Cryptocoryne
Scientific name: Cryptocoryne affinis
Other names: Haertel's Water Trumpet

Habitat

Native to peninsular Malaysia, where it grows along shaded forest streams over lateritic substrates. Wild populations have declined due to habitat conversion, though the plant remains common in cultivation.

Growth requirements

Light: low (≈30-50 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: low
Growth rate: slow
Difficulty: beginner

Placement

Recommended placement: midground
Maximum height: 20 cm

Propagation

In cultivation the plant is propagated by runners (daughter plants on horizontal stolons).