Water Wisteria

Description

Hygrophila difformis is a popular aquarium plant originating from South and Southeast Asia, where it grows in boggy areas. It is easy to cultivate and can thrive under moderate light, but benefits from more intense lighting for optimal health and growth. The plant requires CO2 injection and a good nutrient supply to promote rapid growth, making it suitable for newly set-up tanks. Its pinnate leaves become more refined with increased lighting. Hygrophila difformis is not particular about water hardness or pH, but does require micronutrients like iron to grow well. The plant's submersed and emersed forms differ significantly, with the emersed form featuring creeping shoots, unparted leaves, and blue-violet flowers. When planted in an aquarium, these shoots produce submersed leaves within a few weeks. Propagation is easy by cutting off the upper part of the plant and replanting it into the substrate, where it will quickly form roots and resume growth. Regular trimming promotes bushy growth. While Hygrophila difformis can grow quite large and may not be suitable for smaller tanks, it can add beauty to larger aquariums with its unique leaf shape.