Cryptocoryne crispatula var. flaccidifolia Care Guide
Cryptocoryne crispatula var. flaccidifolia is a long ribbon-leaved Southeast Asian crypt for tall tanks, with softer, more flexible leaves than the balansae form.
Overview
Cryptocoryne crispatula var. flaccidifolia is a variety of the variable C. crispatula complex in the family Araceae. It produces long, narrow, smooth to undulate leaves that range from green to reddish-brown. Submersed leaves reach about 20-50 cm in length and 5-12 mm in width. The variety name refers to the flaccid, flexible leaves of emersed plants, which are softer than those of the related balansae form.
Taxonomy
- Family: Araceae
- Genus: Cryptocoryne
- Scientific name: Cryptocoryne crispatula var. flaccidifolia
Habitat
The variety occurs in southern Thailand, with the wider C. crispatula complex recorded in Vietnam and southern China (Guangxi). It grows mainly submersed in rivulets and rivers, and can also grow emersed when water levels drop. Plants from these flowing-water habitats tolerate a wide range of conditions, including harder water.
Tank requirements
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 4-14 °dGH
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: not required
- Growth rate: medium
- Maximum height: about 50 cm
- Placement: background; best in tanks at least 40 cm tall
Planting and care
This is strictly a background plant: the leaves grow upward and then arch gracefully at the surface, so tall tanks of at least 40 cm height are best suited. As a root-feeding crypt it benefits from a nutrient-rich substrate. It does well in harder water and accepts moderate to intensive lighting. Like other cryptocorynes it dislikes sudden changes in water parameters, which can trigger leaf melt before new growth appears.
Propagation
The plant reproduces by subterranean runners and, over time, forms a dense group. Daughter plants emerging on runners can be separated once they have developed their own roots and replanted to extend the stand.