Dwarf Hygrophila

Hygróphila polyspérma

Family: Acanthaceae
Genus: Hygrophila

Difficulty

Very Easy

Light

Low to High

Growth Rate

Very Fast

Usage

Background

Ideal Conditions

Temperature

4-35°C(opt: 25°C)

CO2

5-40mg/L

pH

5-8

Nutrients

Nitrate (NO3): 10-50mg/L
Phosphate (PO4): 0.1-3mg/L
Potassium (K): 5-30mg/L
Iron (Fe): 0.01-0.5mg/L

Description

Hygrophila polysperma is a robust and adaptable plant native to India and Bhutan. It can also be found in a brown variety from Sri Lanka, sold as Hygrophila polysperma "Ceylon". This plant is widely available in most aquarium shops. Its growth rate is not affected by light intensity, although it may grow slower with less intense lighting and smaller leaves. Nutrient requirements are easily met, and water hardness has no impact on its growth. CO2 injection is also not necessary. Hygrophila polysperma is suitable for beginners. The plant produces many lateral shoots, making propagation easy; simply cut off a shoot or top stem and replant it in the substrate. Due to its fast growth rate, trimming every 2-3 weeks is necessary. A group of stems can create an attractive display, especially in the middle ground of an aquarium.