Hygrophila Costata care guide
Hygrophila Costata (Hygrophila costata) — medium light, 20-28 °C, pH 6-8, no CO2.
Overview
Hygrophila Costata (Hygrophila costata) 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 any substrate. A fast-growing stem plant with narrow, lance-shaped leaves arranged in opposite pairs. Very undemanding and excellent for beginners needing a quick-growing background plant to outcompete algae.
Taxonomy
- Family: Acanthaceae
- Genus: Hygrophila
- Scientific name: Hygrophila costata
- Common synonyms: Narrow-leaf Hygrophila
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 South America.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 20-28 °C (68-82 °F)
- pH: 6-8
- GH: 3-15 °dGH
- Substrate: any
- Maximum height: 50 cm
- Growth rate: fast
- 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 any substrate.
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.