Lagenandra Keralensis care guide
Lagenandra Keralensis (Lagenandra keralensis) — low light, 22-28 °C, pH 6-7, no CO2.
Overview
Lagenandra Keralensis (Lagenandra keralensis) is a narrow-leaved plant of the family Araceae, grown as an aquarium plant. A rare and compact species from Kerala, India. Produces narrow, elongated leaves with a subtle olive-green coloration. Very slow-growing and undemanding, it does well in low-light setups. An uncommon choice that adds a unique texture to planted aquariums.
Taxonomy
- Family: Araceae
- Genus: Lagenandra
- Scientific name: Lagenandra keralensis
- Common synonyms: Kerala Lagenandra
Habitat
Lagenandra is a genus of marsh aroids from South Asia, especially Sri Lanka and southern India, growing along the margins of slow streams and seasonally flooded banks in soft to moderately hard water. In the Aquairi knowledge base this species is recorded from India.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: low
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7
- GH: 2-10 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil
- Maximum height: 10 cm
- Growth rate: slow
- Nutrient demand: low
- Recommended placement: midground
Placement
In aquascapes this plant suits the midground. It is planted with the rhizome at or just above the substrate surface; the thick rhizome creeps slowly, so the plant suits the midground and grows best with steady nutrients.
Propagation
This species is multiplied by rhizome division; cut sections each bearing leaves and roots are replanted, and the genus can also produce side shoots.
Common issues
Like Cryptocoryne, abrupt parameter changes can cause leaves to melt while the rhizome survives; the cut latex-bearing sap can also irritate skin, so gloves are advisable when dividing.