American Featherfoil care guide
American Featherfoil (Hottonia inflata) — medium light, 16-24 °C, pH 6-7.5, no CO2.
Overview
American Featherfoil (Hottonia inflata) is an aquatic plant of the family Primulaceae, 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. North American floating-rosette plant with delicate, finely divided submerged leaves and inflated flower stalks. Useful as a coldwater accent; relatively rare in the hobby.
Taxonomy
- Family: Primulaceae
- Genus: Hottonia
- Scientific name: Hottonia inflata
Habitat
Hottonia palustris (Primulaceae) is a European water plant of clean, cool, still or slow-flowing waters with finely divided submersed leaves and emergent flower spikes. It is rare in much of its range due to habitat loss. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from North America.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 16-24 °C (61-75 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-14 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil
- Maximum height: 30 cm
- Growth rate: medium
- Recommended placement: midground
Placement
Background stem; tolerates cooler water than most aquarium plants and is often grown in cold-water layouts and unheated tanks. 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
Propagated by cuttings; horizontal stems also produce side shoots that can be separated and replanted. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: stem cuttings.
Common issues
Sensitive to high water temperature and to elevated nutrient levels; cool, clean water supports the most vigorous submersed growth.