Hygrophila Balsamica care guide
Hygrophila Balsamica (Hygrophila balsamica) — medium light, 22-28 °C, pH 6-7.5, no CO2.
Overview
Hygrophila Balsamica (Hygrophila balsamica) is an aquatic plant of the family Acanthaceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as a beginner-level species. It is typically grown under medium light and without obligatory CO2 injection on nutrient-rich aquasoil. Stem plant with deeply pinnate leaves resembling small ferns. Less common than other hygrophilas but easy to grow in low-tech and intermediate setups; benefits from rich substrate.
Taxonomy
- Family: Acanthaceae
- Genus: Hygrophila
- Scientific name: Hygrophila balsamica
Habitat
Hygrophila is a genus of Acanthaceae from tropical Asia and Africa, occurring in marshes, river margins and seasonally flooded plains. The genus contains both robust stem species and small creeping forms. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from Asia.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-14 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil
- Maximum height: 50 cm
- Growth rate: medium
- Recommended placement: background
Placement
Stem species form quick background bushes; smaller and variegated forms sit in the midground or attach to wood as facultative epiphytes. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the background under medium light and without obligatory CO2 injection, using nutrient-rich aquasoil.
Propagation
Propagated by cuttings and by lateral shoots from the base; rhizome-attached forms divide easily. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: stem cuttings.
Common issues
Rapid stem species can shade slower neighbours; regular trimming and replanting tops maintain healthy bottom growth.