Hygrophila
Hygrophila polysperma Rosanervig
Rosanervig
About this plant
Hygrophila polysperma is a fast-growing aquatic plant popular in freshwater aquariums. It has long, green leaves with pinkish veins and can grow tall, providing good background coverage. It helps oxygenate water and offers shelter for fish. This plant is easy to grow and can quickly fill an aquarium space.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Hygrophila
- Family
- Acanthaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Lamiales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- India, Southeast Asia
- Distribution
- Native to India and Southeast Asia; widely cultivated in aquariums worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Partial sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Frequent
- Humidity
- High
- Minimum
- 20 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 22–28 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- N/A (aquatic plant)
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Soil type
- aquarium substrate, nutrient-rich
Watering. As an aquatic plant, it grows submerged in water and requires consistent water quality and regular water changes to thrive.
Fertilizing. Use liquid aquarium fertilizers regularly to support healthy growth, especially if the tank lacks fish waste nutrients. Root tabs can be added if planted in substrate.
Hygrophila polysperma is a hardy aquatic plant that grows quickly and adapts well to various water conditions. It needs moderate light and regular trimming to keep it healthy and prevent overgrowth. It is easy to care for, making it suitable for beginners in aquarium keeping.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- summer
Attractive green leaves with pink veins, tall upright growth, and small purple flowers above water surface.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Potentially invasive
Non-toxic to humans and pets; safe for home aquariums.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Hygrophila polysperma is generally safe and unlikely to cause allergies. People sensitive to plant pollen should be cautious, but this plant's pollen allergy risk is low. To reduce any chance of reaction, avoid direct contact with sap and wash hands after handling.
Common problems
If light is too low, the plant may grow slowly or lose color. Overgrowth can cause crowding in the aquarium, and poor water quality may lead to algae growth on leaves.
Uses
Commonly used as an ornamental aquarium plant to provide oxygen, shelter, and aesthetic appeal.
Notes
Regular pruning is needed to prevent the plant from overtaking the aquarium. It can be propagated easily by cutting stem tips and replanting them. Avoid placing in tanks with herbivorous fish that may eat the plant.