Propagating Hygrophila corymbosa 'Siamensis'

A simple guide to multiplying the hardy narrow-leaf temple plant Hygrophila corymbosa 'Siamensis' by cuttings and topping, a fast grower ideal for low-tech tanks.

Overview

Hygrophila corymbosa 'Siamensis' is a narrow-leaf cultivar of the temple plant, a riparian member of the acanthus family (Acanthaceae) indigenous to Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia and India. The parent species is a fast grower that can be frequently trimmed back, and it grows either as an emergent or fully submerged for long periods.

As a named cultivar of Hygrophila corymbosa, the 'Siamensis' form is propagated exactly like the parent species and carries the same hardy, beginner-friendly character. It is often used as a quick-cycling starter plant because it establishes and grows rapidly.

Propagation Method (Cuttings)

The temple plant is easily propagated by taking cuttings and planting them in the substrate, and the 'Siamensis' cultivar follows the same method. Topping the main stem and replanting the cut top is the standard route: the top becomes a new plant while the lower stump branches into multiple new shoots, so one stem quickly becomes several.

Step-by-Step

Pick a healthy stem with firm, bright-green lance-shaped leaves.
Cut the top 5-10 cm of the stem just above a leaf node.
Strip the leaves from the lowest 2-3 cm so the section can be buried cleanly.
Push the bare base into nutrient-rich substrate and firm it in place.
Leave the rooted stump in the tank; it will branch into several new side shoots.

Conditions for Healthy Growth

Temple plant prefers a well-lit position with nutrient-rich water and substrate, and benefits from added CO2 even though it does not require it. It is adaptable to a wide range of water conditions, which is why it suits beginner low-tech tanks. Color and leaf form vary with lighting and iron availability, so brighter light and adequate iron give the most vigorous growth.

Trimming & Maintenance

Because it grows fast, this plant can be frequently trimmed back, on roughly a two-week cadence in an active tank. Each trim doubles as propagation: replant the tops to thicken a background stand. When grown emersed it produces purple scented flowers, and lower leaves may drop during emersed growth, so most aquarists keep the submersed form for a dense underwater hedge.

Common Challenges

Lower-leaf loss when stems are shaded by their own fast top growth.
Stems outgrowing the tank quickly if not trimmed on schedule.
Leaf shape and color shifting with changes in light and iron supply.
Temporary leaf drop when switching a plant from emersed to submersed growth.