Limnophila Aromatica (Limnophila aromatica) Care Guide
A stunning stem plant prized for its vibrant purple and red coloration under high light with CO2 supplementation. Emits a pleasant herbal aroma when crushed.
Overview
Limnophila aromatica is an aquatic plant in the family Plantaginaceae. A stunning stem plant prized for its vibrant purple and red coloration under high light with CO2 supplementation. Emits a pleasant herbal aroma when crushed. Requires more attention than average plants but rewards with spectacular color in well-maintained setups.
Taxonomy
- Family: Plantaginaceae
- Genus: Limnophila
- Scientific name: Limnophila aromatica
- Other names: Rice Paddy Herb, Limnophila aromaticoides
Habitat
Native to Southeast Asia, where it grows in flooded rice paddies. Used culturally as the culinary herb ngò ôm (Vietnamese) and ma om (Khmer). Submerged leaves develop green and purple undersides and turn red under high light.
Growth requirements
- Light: high (≥80 PAR at substrate)
- CO2: pressurised CO2 recommended
- Temperature: 22-28 °C
- pH: 5.5-7
- GH: 2-10 °dGH
- Substrate: nutrient-rich aquasoil or fertilised gravel
- Nutrient demand: high
- Growth rate: medium
- Difficulty: intermediate
Placement
- Recommended placement: background
- Maximum height: 40 cm
- Trim every: 14 days
Propagation
In cultivation the plant is propagated by stem cuttings (replant the upper portion after trimming).