01
Overview
The lance-shaped leaves carry mottled browns with darker veining, a palette almost nothing else in the hobby offers. It stays low and slim, so the color arrives without bulk.
02
Aquascaping use
Use its brown against fresh green carpets or pale sand, where the contrast reads as deliberate autumn accent. In dim tanks the subtlety disappears, so give it a visible seat.
03
Planting
Plant small groups in the fore-to-midground with crowns clear of the substrate. Like its crispatula relatives it settles slowly but holds ground once rooted.
Nutrient-bearing substrate
04
Light & CO₂
Moderate light develops the richest mottling; low light shifts it plainer and greener. CO₂ is optional.
05
Substrate & fertilization
Tab-fed roots plus standard column dosing maintain color and pace. Starved plants dull to khaki.
Feeding behavior: Root feeder. Nutrient demand: moderate.
06
Growth, trimming & propagation
Minimal; remove tired leaves and separate runners occasionally. Slow replacement argues against aggressive grooming.
Runner separation
07
Common problems
- !Color depends on light and can disappoint in shade
- !Melt after disturbance
- !Easily outcompeted by faster neighbors
