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Hygrophila Plant Care 

Hygrophila Plant Care 

Updated on July 28, 2022
Reviewer Profile Photo
Reviewed by Don Spaeth
Petco’s National Aquatic Care, Education and Programs Manager

Appearance | Plant care | How to plant it | Aquarium requirements | Common problems | Aquarium mates

Hygrophila Plant Care

When creating the ideal aquarium setting, consider including Hygrophila plants. Hailing from tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, these hardy plants cohabitate well with many aquatic species and can serve as a natural shelter to some—including guppies, platys, swordfish and crystal shrimp. They even provide spawning and foraging grounds of biofilm for small fish. Including Hygrophila in your aquarium can also improve the water quality, helping to prevent excessive algae growth.

Some species of Hygrophila are easy to grow, while others need a little more attention. Regardless of which one you choose—and there are about 100 to choose from—just ensure that your aquarium is set up appropriately to care for them. These plants are a wonderful addition to any aquatic community and provide a natural and pleasing aesthetic.

Appearance 

The main thing in common with different species of Hygrophila is their healthy root systems. From there, appearance and structure can vary. Certain species grow long, narrow leaves, while others sprout ruffled, irregularly shaped leaves. Some species can grow to 20 inches or more, whereas others won’t grow more than four inches in height.

Hygrophila species also come in various colors but typically display shades of green. Some species—like Hygrophila pinnatifida—may feature magenta and red accents.

Color variance generally depends on CO2 levels and the intensity of lighting it receives.

Some Hygrophila types you may come across include the following:

  • Hygrophila angustifolia 
  • Hygrophila Araguaia 
  • Hygrophila salicifolia 

Plant care  

Care can range from easy to difficult, depending on which type of Hygrophila you choose to plant in your aquarium. For example, good beginner plants include Hygrophila polysperma, Hygrophila corymbosa and Hygrophila difformis because they are adaptable, hardy and generally not demanding as long as their aquarium environment needs are met.

No matter which species you plant in your aquarium, trim excessive growth with aquatic plant pruning shears.  

How to plant it 

Some species, like Hygrophila corymbosa and Hygrophila polysperma—or dwarf Hygrophila—can grow more than 20 inches tall. Be sure to plan your planted aquarium accordingly. It’s best to plant most species of this variety in the middle or back of the aquarium due to their potential growth heights. Always position them away from filter intakes and overflows.

Propagation 

Propagating Hygrophila plants is easy. Simply clip its side shoots where they meet the stem, then plant them deep into your substrate. 

Aquarium requirements 

General aquarium requirements for your plant include the following:

Lighting All Hygrophila species thrive with eight to ten hours of light each day. To ensure proper plant growth, use full-spectrum lighting. The proper intensity will vary by species.

Substrate To help your Hygrophila develop substantial root systems, use of a nutrient-based substrate is recommended. Look for “planted” substrates to fill the bottom of your aquarium.

Food Plant food—as well as any aquarium water conditioners and additives—should be designed for freshwater planted aquariums.  

CO2 All species require CO2 for growth and respiration. If your Hygrophila species requires elevated CO2 levels, use the appropriate system in your aquarium. You can also purchase CO2 in tablet or liquid form that dissolves in the water.

pH The optimal pH level for Hygrophila ranges between 5 and 8. For help managing the water’s pH, you can use pH treatments.

Temperature The optimal temperature range for most types of Hygrophila is between 68 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Overall, make sure your Hygrophila is in a well-suited, clean environment. Through a bit of trial and error, you can learn more about what types of aquarium cleaning supplies are best for your setup. 

Common problems 

New aquarists may not know that some fish medications can harm Hygrophila species. Pay special attention to any potential negative impacts your fish medication may have on the plant. 

Aquarium mates and compatibility 

Many fish species can live peacefully with Hygrophila. Shrimp can make wonderful aquarium mates because they help keep the plants clean by eating biofilm, any trapped fish food and dead or dying parts of the plant. Otocinclus—a small sucker-mouth catfish—helps keep these plants healthy by consuming biofilm or algae that may grow on the leaves.

 Other good options are dwarf cichlids, rasboras, tetras, danios, killifish, pencilfish and bettas.  

 However, some aquatic life can be destructive to Hygrophila. Research carefully before adding these species to your aquatic family.

  • Crabs 
  • Silver dollar tetras
  • African cichlids and large cichlids 
  • Goldfish 
  • Crayfish 

Finally, while most snails can be good aquarium mates, there are some species that may pose a problem to your Hygrophila. If their dietary needs aren’t met, some snails may begin to eat the plant. Research snail types carefully before adding them to your aquarium to ensure your plants flourish.

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