Cryptocoryne parva

Description

Cryptocoryne parva, the smallest known water trumpet species, originates from the central highlands of Sri Lanka near Kandy city. It grows in dense colonies on riverbanks there. This species is considered possibly endangered due to its scarcity in the wild. In aquaristics, it has been known for a long time but hasn't been widely spread due to its slow growth. The dwarf water trumpet is similar to plants from the Cryptocoryne x willisii group and stays smaller when grown submersed without flowering. It was previously misclassified under the name "Cryptocoryne nevillii". This species grows very slowly even in optimal conditions, requiring a lot of light, CO2, nutrient-rich substrate, and regular fertilization to grow to its full potential. Maintaining iron and potassium levels is crucial to prevent deficiency symptoms like chloroses and leaf holes. Propagation requires a nutrient-rich environment and patience, as the plant forms lateral shoots and runners on its rhizome when kept emersed. Its small size makes Cryptocoryne parva an ideal foreground plant for small aquaria and nano tanks, taking time to form a lawnlike population due to its slow growth, but being easy to maintain in the process.