Potamogeton Octandrus - Red

Overview: As the name indicates, Potamogeton Octandrus– Red is a beautiful red-colored aquatic plant species that is popular among aquarists for its vibrant foliage that attains red and green color. Native to North America, this plant prefers a temperate climate for growth. Under the right water conditions, especially the high light intensity and prominent nutrients, the plant gets red hues in its foliage. Once introduced in the tank, Potamogeton Octandrus– Red instantly becomes the major attraction. It can be used as a midground or background plant and intensify the color and texture of aquascapes.

Appearance: Potamogeton Octandrus– Red has long and narrow leaves that are lance-shaped. The varying colors present in the leaves, such as hues of green and red, make it extremely alluring and pleasing to the eyes. The striking red color comes when high light and proper nutrients are offered to the plant, which is where the "Red" in its name comes from. It can reach a height of 30 to 60 cm, making it prefer to plant as a background plant. The elegant and smooth appearance adds a dynamic texture to aquariums.

Hard/Soft Plant: Potamogeton Octandrus– Red is a soft plant that requires adequate water parameters to thrive well and show its true coloration.

Ideal Water Temperature: The ideal water temperature of Potamogeton Octandrus– Red is between 20 and 26 degrees Celsius. The plant flourishes in temperate and subtropical climatic conditions; thus, it is suitable for freshwater aquariums. This temperature range will ensure healthy growth and vibrant colors.

Lighting Conditions: Potamogeton Octandrus– Red loves moderate to high light conditions as it helps to grow profoundly and show its vibrant foliage. Under low light conditions, the red color stays less pronounced. Good light will favor vigorous growth.

Ideal pH Level: The ideal pH is between 6 and 7.5. keeping the pH within this range will maintain the plant's health and color.

Other Requirements: It is important for the substrate to be rich in fertilizers for Potamogeton Octandrus– Red to grow rapidly. You can use root tabs or liquid fertilizers for the purpose. Keep the water hardness between 4 and 12 GH. There is no need for additional carbon dioxide, but supplementing it will help its growth.

Propagation: Potamogeton Octandrus– Red can be easily propagated by stem cutting. However, splitting the rhizomes can also help in its propagation. If you are using rhizomes, cut them into small sections wherein each should have a root and shoot. Now, replant them in the substrate. Over time, these replanted sections will develop into new plants.

Do You Know: At some places, Potamogeton Octandrus– Red is known as pondweed. This plant is known to absorb excess nutrients from the water; thus, it helps filter the water and reduce the growth of algae. It can grow both submerged and immersed in ponds, although it is usually grown submerged in aquariums for better visual effect and ease of care.