Vallisneria 'Contortionist' care guide
Vallisneria 'Contortionist' (Vallisneria asiatica var. biwaensis) — medium light, 20-28 °C, pH 6.5-8, no CO2.
Overview
Vallisneria 'Contortionist' (Vallisneria asiatica var. biwaensis) is an aquatic plant of the family Hydrocharitaceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as a beginner-level species. It is typically grown under medium light and without obligatory CO2 injection on any substrate. A decorative Vallisneria with distinctly twisted, spiraling leaves that add movement and visual interest. Easy to care for and spreads readily through runners, creating a natural-looking underwater meadow.
Taxonomy
- Family: Hydrocharitaceae
- Genus: Vallisneria
- Scientific name: Vallisneria asiatica var. biwaensis
- Common synonyms: Twisted Val, Corkscrew Val
Habitat
Vallisneria is a cosmopolitan genus of submersed aquatic plants (Hydrocharitaceae) that occupy freshwater lakes, rivers and irrigation canals across temperate and tropical regions of the world. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from Japan, Asia.
Growth requirements
- Lighting: medium
- CO2: not required
- Temperature: 20-28 °C (68-82 °F)
- pH: 6.5-8
- GH: 4-15 °dGH
- Substrate: any
- Maximum height: 40 cm
- Growth rate: medium
- Recommended placement: midground
Placement
Background plant whose ribbon leaves form vertical screens. Spreads by runners along the substrate. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the midground under medium light and without obligatory CO2 injection, using any substrate.
Propagation
Runners with daughter plants spread rapidly across nutrient-rich substrate; daughters are detached and replanted to control density. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: horizontal runners.
Common issues
Liquid carbon (glutaraldehyde) supplements often cause Vallisneria to melt; gradual introduction or omission is recommended.