Hygrophilia corymbosa strict

Originating in Asia, Hygrophila corymbosa  is also known as Temple plant or starhorn is an easy-to-care-for starter plant for beginners. It is a fast growing plant that is tolerant of a wide range of water conditions.  Maximum height: 8-13 cm when grown in a tank

Above water in its wild state, the plant produces purple flowers, although, unfortunately, aquarium plants do not generally do so.  In aquariums it will spread quickly, creating light to bright green, wide and long leaves, and growing up to 8-13 cm. They are healthier and have the possibility of growing up to 40 cm when grown in its natural habitat. Some specimens can exhibit pretty pink and magenta shading, too, making these a particularly attractive addition to the aquarium.  New growth will spread from the stems, creating a compact, bushy appearance that lends itself extremely well to aquascaping.

Tank size Because the plant grows to be quite sizable, it’s most suitable for use in medium to large aquariums rather than small setups.

Growing conditions: Like most Hygrophila, corymbosa is tolerant of a wide range of water conditions.  The best type of substrate for these aquarium plants is fine gravel, and there should be sufficient nutrients here to fuel the plants’ growth and keep them looking good. However, this plant does benefit from the use of a CO2 system.

Bright light is preferred for optimal growth, as the species doesn’t thrive under low light.

When planting your aquarium, use Hygrophila corymbosa toward the back of the tank due to its height.  Like a lot of aquatic herb and stem species, this plant can also grow in immersed or submerged forms. When in the open wild, and partially submerged, the Hygrophila corymbosa can produce pink to purple flowers.

Propagation: Propagation is simple. Take cuttings from the plant’s main stem and plant them in the substrate of your aquarium. Roots will quickly form, and the baby plants will begin growing.

Care and maintenance: These aquatic plants are very quick growers and require regular pruning to prevent overgrowth. To keep the plants looking tidy, you’ll need to remove any dead leaves from the lower few inches of the main stems.

Since the hygrophila corymbosa siamensis plant can grow fast, it is vital to keep it well-maintained, trimmed and nourished with extra nitrite, nitrate, and ammonia plus an additional injection of CO2. A rich substrate is always a must; that is a rule of thumb.

If the plant’s leaves begin to turn yellow, that could indicate an iron deficiency. Also, if the water is low in minerals, the plants will not thrive. An additional supplement will correct both these problems. To get a stimulating effect on its leaves, add more iron supplement and intensify the light. The results will be apparent in a short time, the colored green leaves will transform into hues of bronze.

Place of origin: Asia
Maximum height: 13 cm
Growth rate: Fast, requires frequent pruning to prevent overgrowth
Lighting: Moderate to intense
CO2: Low
Demands: Easy
Position range: Background
Type: Planted
Substrate: Aquarium soil, sand, or gravel
Propagation: Plant cuttings
Temperature range: 17 – 30°C
pH: 5.5-8.0
Hardness: 2 -15dh (very soft to hard)