Hygrophila polysperma 'Sunset Red' Care Guide

Hygrophila polysperma 'Sunset Red' is a colourful selection of an Asian Acanthaceae stem plant with pink-red shoots; vigorous but a US Federal Noxious Weed.

Overview

Hygrophila polysperma 'Sunset Red' is a colourful selection of Hygrophila polysperma, an Asian stem plant of the family Acanthaceae. The base species is among the hardiest aquarium plants; this selection develops pink-red shoots with pale veining. Leaves take on pink or orange tones as they approach the light source.

Taxonomy

Family: Acanthaceae
Genus: Hygrophila
Scientific name: Hygrophila polysperma 'Sunset Red'
Common name: Sunset Red Hygrophila

Habitat

Hygrophila polysperma is native to Bangladesh, India, China and Malaysia. It first appeared in the aquarium trade in 1945. It spreads rapidly through stem propagation and leaf rooting and is invasive where introduced; it is listed on the US Federal Noxious Weed List and is illegal to import and sell in Kansas and South Carolina.

Aquarium requirements

Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
pH: 6.0-7.8
GH: 3-14 °dGH
Lighting: medium (stronger light deepens the colour)
CO2: not required
Maximum height: up to about 40 cm
Placement: background

Growth and care

This is a very fast-growing, undemanding stem plant. Light intensity has little effect on overall growth, nutrient demands are easily met and water hardness has no notable influence; CO2 is not needed. Because it can crowd out other plants, frequent pruning is recommended.

Propagation

Propagation is straightforward by cuttings of side shoots or shoot tips, which root readily when replanted. Even detached leaves can form small new plants.