Hygrophila Polysperma (Hygrophila polysperma) Care Guide

One of the hardiest and fastest-growing aquarium plants available, nearly impossible to kill. Thrives under almost any conditions and is an excellent choice for absorbing excess nutrients in new tank…

Overview

Hygrophila polysperma is an aquatic plant in the family Acanthaceae. One of the hardiest and fastest-growing aquarium plants available, nearly impossible to kill. Thrives under almost any conditions and is an excellent choice for absorbing excess nutrients in new tank setups.

Taxonomy

Family: Acanthaceae
Genus: Hygrophila
Scientific name: Hygrophila polysperma
Other names: Dwarf Hygrophila, Indian Waterweed

Habitat

Native to Bangladesh, India, China and Malaysia, where it inhabits ponds, ditches and slow-flowing waters. Listed on the U.S. Federal Noxious Weed List and prohibited in several states and in the European Union.

Growth requirements

Light: low (≈30-50 PAR at substrate)
CO2: optional (CO2 improves growth and coloration)
Temperature: 18-30 °C
pH: 6-8
GH: 2-18 °dGH
Substrate: any (rootless or floating)
Nutrient demand: low
Growth rate: fast
Difficulty: beginner

Placement

Recommended placement: background
Maximum height: 40 cm
Trim every: 7 days

Propagation

In cultivation the plant is propagated by stem cuttings (replant the upper portion after trimming).