Hygrophila Pinnatifida care guide
Hygrophila Pinnatifida (Hygrophila pinnatifida) — medium light, 22-28 °C, pH 6-7.5, CO2 recommended.
Overview
Hygrophila Pinnatifida (Hygrophila pinnatifida) is an aquatic plant of the family Acanthaceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as an intermediate-level species. It is typically grown under medium light with pressurised CO2 injection on nutrient-rich aquasoil. A unique plant with deeply lobed brownish-green leaves that can grow as both a stem plant and an epiphyte on rocks. Under strong lighting the undersides of its leaves turn an attractive burgundy-purple, creating a striking two-tone effect.
Taxonomy
- Family: Acanthaceae
- Genus: Hygrophila
- Scientific name: Hygrophila pinnatifida
- Common synonyms: Pinnatifida
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 India.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: recommended
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 3-10 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil
- Maximum height: 25 cm
- Growth rate: slow
- Recommended placement: midground
Placement
Stem species form quick background bushes; smaller forms (Lancea, Pinnatifida and similar) sit in the midground or attach to wood as facultative epiphytes. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the midground under medium light with pressurised 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, rhizome division.
Common issues
Rapid stem species can shade slower neighbours; regular trimming and replanting tops maintain healthy bottom growth.