Overview: Popular as Giant Red and Red Limnophila, Limnophila aquatica is a beautiful aquarium plant that fascinates aquarists around the world. From the deep green to red hues that the plant attains make it very interesting. Limnophila aquatica is native to Southeast Asia and is often used by aquarists to add depths and vibrancy to their aquascape. The fast-growing nature and the ability to grow in freshwater aquariums make Limnophila aquatica one of the suitable plants for the aquarist.
Appearance: The beauty of Limnophila aquatica is its delicate and feathery leaves that give the plant a soft and flowing appearance. However, what makes it most attractive is the distinguishing red hue on the leaves. Under the right water parameters, the plant exhibits this wonderful coloration and look more beautiful. The new leaves always appear red and transitions to greenish-red over time. With the dense and bushy clusters growth pattern and height reaching to 12 inches make Limnophila aquatica the best background or midground plant in the tank.
Hard/Soft Plant: Limnophila aquatica is a soft plant. It is relatively easy to grow, but its vibrant coloration and overall health depend heavily on water quality and lighting conditions.
Ideal Water Temperature: The ideal water temperature for Limnophila aquatica ranges from 22°C to 28°C. It prefers warm, stable water, so aquarists should try to maintain the range. Too much temperatures fluctuation may cause stress to the plant, affecting its growth and coloration.
Lighting Conditions: Limnophila aquatica requires high lighting to maintain its striking red coloration. In low light, the plant may turn green and fail to display its vibrant red hues.
Ideal pH Level: The ideal pH range for Limnophila aquatica is between 6.0 and 7.5.
Other Requirements: Limnophila aquatica thrives in nutrient-rich substrates and requires good water quality. It is important that you change water regularly to prevent the buildup of excess nutrients which could lead to algae growth. It also benefits from the addition of liquid fertilizers or CO2 supplementation to enhance its growth and coloration.
Propagation: Limnophila aquatica propagates through stem cuttings. To propagate, simply cut the top portion of the stem and replant it into the substrate. The cut stem will quickly develop new roots, and the process can be repeated to produce new plants. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain its bushy, attractive form.
Do You Know: The striking color and ease of maintenance make Limnophila aquatica a popular choice for aquascaping. When it is exposed to high lighting, the plant develops and maintains the reddish hue for longer.
