01
Overview
Calamistratum grows from a large bulb into a spray of stiff, almost black-green leaves crimped along their whole length, resembling curled seaweed more than a flowering plant. From Cameroonian rivers it brings both durability and an occasional fragrant white flower for open-topped tanks.
02
Aquascaping use
Its dark twisted foliage makes a striking specimen behind wood or as a living screen in a larger tank. The corrugation catches light in a way flat leaves cannot.
03
Planting
Bury only the roots and lower bulb, leaving the neck exposed; a buried bulb rots. Choose its spot carefully, as Crinum resent being moved once rooted.
Deep substrate; bulb neck exposed
04
Light & CO₂
Medium light suits it, and CO₂ speeds its slow establishment. Once settled it is very low-maintenance.
05
Substrate & fertilization
Feed the substantial roots with tabs; it draws heavily on stored bulb energy early. Established bulbs need little.
Feeding behavior: Root feeder. Nutrient demand: moderate.
06
Growth, trimming & propagation
Remove old outer leaves at the bulb; leaves cannot be shortened without browning. Detach bulb offsets once they have their own roots.
Bulb offsets
07
Common problems
- !Bulb rot if planted too deep
- !Sulks and may drop leaves after being moved
- !Slow to establish before steady growth begins
