Cryptocoryne Balansae (Cryptocoryne balansae) Care Guide

A tall Cryptocoryne species with long, narrow, beautifully textured leaves that create an impressive background display.

Overview

Cryptocoryne balansae is an aquatic plant in the family Araceae. A tall Cryptocoryne species with long, narrow, beautifully textured leaves that create an impressive background display. Very hardy and undemanding, tolerating a wide range of water parameters and low-light conditions.

Taxonomy

Family: Araceae
Genus: Cryptocoryne
Scientific name: Cryptocoryne balansae
Other names: Crypt Balansae

Habitat

Native to fast-flowing streams of southern Thailand and adjacent regions. Often treated as Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae in modern taxonomy. Long ribbon-like leaves up to 50 cm trail in the current.

Growth requirements

Light: low (≈30-50 PAR at substrate)
CO2: optional (CO2 improves growth and coloration)
Temperature: 22-28 °C
pH: 6-8
GH: 2-15 °dGH
Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil or fertilised gravel
Nutrient demand: low
Growth rate: medium
Difficulty: beginner

Placement

Recommended placement: background
Maximum height: 40 cm
Trim every: 21 days

Propagation

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