Hygrophila odora Care Guide
Hygrophila odora is a West African stem plant (Acanthaceae) with aromatic emersed foliage and fine, fern-like submerged leaves; a moderately demanding species.
Overview
Hygrophila odora is an African stem plant of the family Acanthaceae. Its emersed stems and leaves carry sticky glandular hairs and a strong odour, giving the species its name. The submerged form is light green and hairless, with decorative, narrow, pinnately cut, almost fern-like leaves up to about 10 cm long on tough stems.
Taxonomy
- Family: Acanthaceae
- Genus: Hygrophila
- Scientific name: Hygrophila odora
- Common name: Fragrant Hygro
Habitat
The species occurs in West Africa, including Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Senegal and Sierra Leone, where it grows in wetland habitats. It can grow both submerged and emergent, producing purple flowers in the emersed state.
Aquarium requirements
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 3-14 °dGH
- Lighting: medium to high
- CO2: recommended (about 25-40 mg/l)
- Maximum height: over 50 cm (kept around 35 cm in aquaria)
- Placement: background
Growth and care
Hygrophila odora is a moderately demanding plant that grows best in soft water with strong lighting, ample macro- and micronutrients (substrate fertilisation may help) and CO2 supplementation. It is susceptible to phosphate deficiency and should not be kept below about 0.3 mg/l PO4. Warmer temperatures appear beneficial.
Propagation
Propagation is by top and lateral cuttings, which are replanted into the substrate where they root and continue to grow.