Limnophila aromatica

Description

Limnophila hippuridoides is often mistakenly referred to as Limnophila aromatica. This plant has 6-8 leaves per whorl and exhibits an intense, deep red color with pink undersides under strong lighting. Limnophila aromatica is less well-known in the aquarium hobby and has a more subtle appearance. It has 2-3(-4?) leaves per node when submerged and comes in various green and reddish hues. The plant's leaves have a distinctive aromatic scent due to the presence of essential oils, particularly limonene. Limnophila aromatica is native to tropical and subtropical Asia, northern Australia, and swampy areas, where it grows among others as a weed in flooded rice paddies. As an aquarium plant, it requires high light, CO2 fertilization, nitrate, phosphate, and micronutrients in the substrate, with its appearance varying by variety.