Archives: Plants

Aponogeton madagascariensis is a bulb plant from Madagascar and is a speciality in botanical gardens all over the world. Aponogeton madagascariensis makes such high demands on water quality and the bottom that it can only be recommended as a solitary plant in large, specialised aquariums in which the water is replaced frequently. There are several varieties, with different structures and leaf widths, and sizes from 25-50 cm.

Aponogeton ulvaceus is one of the most beautiful bulb species in the Aponogeton-family and originates from Madagascar. The leaves are delicate light-green and transparent with fluted margin. A single root can produce more than 40 leaves, 30-60 cm long. This means that the plant is best as a solitary plant in large aquariums (the plant becomes up to 50 cm wide). It is relatively tolerant, and thrives in both soft and hard water, particularly if CO2 is added. There are many varieties of Aponogeton ulvaceus, some of which need a dormant period when the root does not produce leaves.

Vesicularia ferriei ‘Weeping’, commonly known as Weeping Moss, is believed to originate from China and has been distributed by Oriental Aquarium Plants. ‘Weeping’ is a fleshy, 1-3 cm tall hanging moss with teardrop-like bright green shoots. It is best attached to driftwood or roots, as its drooping growth pattern helps to create depth and contrast in the aquarium. ‘Weeping’ has low demands, is fast growing and should be pruned frequently with scissors to maintain an attractive shape.

A moss speciality from Brasil, 1-3 cm tall, called “Christmas tree moss”, because of its side branch structure which distinguishes it from ordinary Vesicularia dubyana and looks like fir tree branches. It is more demanding than ordinary Java moss and grows more slowly. It attaches readily to roots and stones, and as it spreads in the water it needs pruning to keep its shape attractive. See also Taxiphyllum barbieri.

Microsorum pteropus is a highly variable species, and new varieties are easily bred. Microsorum pteropus ‘Narrow’ has narrower leaves, which grow at a less acute angle from the stem than the normal Microsorum pteropus. Leaves becomes 10-20 cm and a rhizome from 10-15 cm or more. The plant attaches readily to roots and stones. A decorative plant, which is also suitable for smaller aquariums.

Microsorum pteropus ‘Windeløv’ is a patented variety of Microsorum pteropus, named after Tropica’s founder Holger Windeløv. Its finely branched leaf tips make it one of the most beautiful aquarium plants. The Microsorum variety becomes 15-20 cm tall and wide. A hardy and easy plant for both beginners and the more experienced. Best results are obtained by planting it on a stone or tree root. If planted in the bottom the horizontal rhizome must not be covered. This plant is not eaten by herbivorous fish.

This red version of Cryptocoryne undulata grows wild in rivers of Sri Lanka. It is an easy plant, tolerant of very different conditions in an aquarium. Appearance of the plant will partially depend on these conditions.

Low levels of light and nutrients will produce a relatively tall, greenish-brown plant of slow growth. Higher levels of light and nutrition, combined with added CO2, will make the plant grow considerably faster producing shorter leaves of a reddish-brown colour.

Anubias barteri var. coffeefolia is a very beautiful, low cultivar of Anubias barteri. 15-25 cm tall and a creeping rhizome from 10-15 cm or more. It is characteristic that the leaves arch considerably between the leaf ribs, and the new leaves are red-brown. The colour combination and leaf shape make it an attractive variety in both large and small aquariums. It flowers frequently under water but does not produce seeds there. Anubias species seem to grow so slowly that they do not realise that they have been submerged. It is not eaten by herbivorous fish.

Variety of Ludwigia repens from North America with striking dark red leaves and stalk. Stems from 20-50 cm and 4-6 cm wide. It makes a fine colour contrast to the green shades in the aquarium. Plant in large groups to enhance the decorative effect, and prune regularly to encourage bushy growth. The plant makes few demands, but if light is insufficient the lower leaves tend to fall off. In strong light the colour becomes more intense.

Red Tiger Lotus is widespread across tropical Africa, where it inhabits various bodies of water, including temporary pools and lakes, and flowing water. It has a tuber for storing nutrients and robust floating leaves. Its most attractive feature is the submerged juvenile leaves that do not reach the water surface. Of the two colour forms, this red variant is most popular among aquarists; the green version is hard to find commercially. Tiger Lotus is generally undemanding; older, larger leaves should always be removed at the base of the tuber.