Overview: Cuphea anagalloidea is one of the beautiful freshwater aquarium plants which is also popular as False Heirloom Cuphea and Aquarium Cuphea among aquarists. It is native to the tropical parts of the Central and South America. From the vibrant foliage to the attractive flowers– everything about this aquarium plant is astonishing, making it one of the well-known aquatic plant species. The best part is, it is easy to maintain and thus suitable for the beginners and intermediate aquarists.
Appearance: Cuphea anagalloidea is a bushy plant with compact growth. It can reach the height of 15 to 30 cm in the ideal water conditions, thus making it a great mid-ground or background plant for aquascaping. The oval shaped leaves in dark green color bring lush greenery to the tank. When there are right water parameters, the plant may produce small flowers that are delicate and appear pink with purplish hues. When you want to add a touch of elegance to your tank, add Cuphea anagalloidea.
Hard/Soft Plant: It is a soft plant but can withstand minor fluctuations in water parameters. Also, it requires soft to moderately hard water to grow well and thrive.
Ideal Water Temperature: The ideal temperature range for Cuphea anagalloidea is between 22 and 28 degrees Celsius. Since it is native to tropical climates, make sure that the water temperature does not fall too low as it will inhibit the plant’s growth and lead to stress.
Lighting Conditions: Cuphea anagalloidea prefer moderate to high lighting conditions for the best growth. It can tolerate a range of light intensities but will produce better growth and more frequent blooming under stronger light.
Ideal pH Level: The ideal pH range for Cuphea anagalloidea is between 6 and 7.5. Just like temperature, it can withstand minor fluctuations in pH but will show healthy and vibrant growth under this range only.
Other Requirements: The growth of Cuphea anagalloidea favours when the nutrient-rich substrate it provided to it. At the same time, regular nutrient supplementation through liquid fertilizers improves its development. All this encourage healthy growth and flowering. Supplementing additional carbon dioxide is not necessary but the growth enhances in its presence.
Propagation: The best way to propagate Cuphea anagalloidea is through cuttings. Take a healthy stem with a few leaves and replant it in the substrate. Gradually, the cutting will develop roots and establish in the substrate.
Do You Know: Cuphea anagalloidea is not only grown in aquariums but some of its species are also used as a garden plant due to its attractive flowers. When grown in aquariums, it provides shelter and hiding spots for small fish and invertebrates, adding to the ecosystem's balance.
