Limnophila Aquatica care guide
Limnophila Aquatica (Limnophila aquatica) — medium light, 22-28 °C, pH 6-7.5, CO2 recommended.
Overview
Limnophila Aquatica (Limnophila aquatica) is an aquatic plant of the family Plantaginaceae, 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. An elegant stem plant with whorls of finely divided feathery leaves that create a delicate lace-like appearance. Larger and more demanding than Limnophila sessiliflora, it thrives with CO2 injection and medium-to-high lighting.
Taxonomy
- Family: Plantaginaceae
- Genus: Limnophila
- Scientific name: Limnophila aquatica
- Common synonyms: Giant Ambulia
Habitat
Limnophila species are marsh plants of the family Plantaginaceae distributed across tropical Asia and Africa; they occupy rice paddies, ditches and slow streams, often emerging above the waterline during the dry season. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from Southeast Asia, 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: 50 cm
- Growth rate: medium
- Recommended placement: background
Placement
Background stem; the feathery whorls and bright colours respond strongly to elevated light and CO2. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the background under medium light with pressurised CO2 injection, using nutrient-rich aquasoil.
Propagation
Propagated by cuttings; replanted tops root within a few days under stable conditions. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: stem cuttings.
Common issues
Leaf shedding from lower stems usually reflects shading by the canopy or low CO2; topping the stem and replanting the fresh apex re-energises the colony.