Cryptocoryne undulata ‘Broad Leaf’

This red version of Cryptocoryne undulata grows wild in rivers of Sri Lanka.

It is an easy plant, tolerant of very different conditions in an aquarium. Appearance of the plant will partially depend on these conditions.

Low levels of light and nutrients will produce a relatively tall, greenish-brown plant of slow growth. Higher levels of light and nutrition, combined with added CO2, will make the plant grow considerably faster producing shorter leaves of a reddish-brown colour.

Type: Rosulate
Origin: Asia
Growth rate: Medium
Height: 15 – 30+
Light demand:
CO2 :

Rotala wallichii

Rotala wallichii is a demanding plant that develops red shoot tips in good light conditions.

The most decorative effect can be achieved by planting a large number of stems in a group. Rotala walichii is good as background and midground plant and suitable even for small aquariums, because it is easy to prune if it grows too tall. CO2 addition boosts growth considerably. It also prefers soft, slightly acidic water.

Type: Stem
Origin: Asia
Growth rate: Medium
Height: 10 – 30+
Light demand:
CO2 :

Cyperus helferi

Cyperus-species are widespread all over the tropics, but only a few of them are good underwater plants. Cyperus helferi from Thailand is the first Cyperus-species used in aquariums, 20-35 cm tall and a roset from 15-25 cm wide. It requires a relatively large amount of light, and CO2 addition is recommended to promote growth. In aquariums with good water flow the plant sways beautifully in the current. 

Type: Rosulate
Origin: Asia
Growth rate:
Height: 20 – 30+
Light demand: Medium
CO2 : Medium

Rotala rotundifolia sp Blood Red

The Latin name means “the plant with the round leaves”, but this only applies to the marsh variety, which has circular leaves. Rotala rotundifolia from South-East Asia has 15-30 long stems (2-3 cm wide) and long, narrow leaves. Unlike other Rotala species it is relatively undemanding, although it needs good light to produce red leaves.
It forms side shoots willingly, becoming compact and bushy. This also means that it is hard for light to reach the lower leaves, so the plant should be pruned frequently. Also known as Rotala indica.

Type: Stem
Origin: Asia
Growth rate: Medium
Height: 15 – 30+
Light demand: Low
CO2 : Low