01
Overview
From a walnut-sized tuber this African lily throws up dramatic triangular leaves veined and spotted in deep red, and given the chance it will send lily pads and even night-blooming flowers to the surface. It grows fast and eats hard, rewarding a rich tank with a genuine centerpiece.
Size note: Remove surface-reaching leaves if the intended form is a compact submerged rosette.
02
Aquascaping use
Feature one tuber as the unambiguous focal point of a midground; its color and leaf shape command attention. Keep it clear of finer plants it would overshadow.
03
Planting
Rest the tuber shallowly in rich substrate with the sprouting eye exposed. Anchor lightly until roots grip, as new tubers can float.
Plant the tuber shallowly in rich substrate
04
Light & CO₂
Medium light produces red submerged leaves; strong light hastens surface pads. CO₂ accelerates growth and deepens color.
05
Substrate & fertilization
A voracious root feeder; keep tabs beneath it renewed or leaf size collapses. Iron supports the red intensity.
Feeding behavior: Root feeder. Nutrient demand: high.
06
Growth, trimming & propagation
Cut surface-bound pad stems at the base to force the plant back into its bushy submerged form. Remove old leaves at the tuber.
Seed and daughter plants
07
Common problems
- !Races to the surface with pads if not pruned
- !Exhausts substrate nutrients quickly
- !Large leaves shade nearby plants
