Description
Hygrophila Angustifolia
Price per stem, grown submerged.
Overview
Hygrophila Angustifolia, commonly known as Willow Hygro, is a fast-growing, hardy aquatic plant popular in the aquarium trade. Native to Southeast Asia, this stem plant features long, narrow, willow-like leaves that add a vibrant green or reddish hue (under high light) to aquascapes. Its adaptability and attractive appearance make it suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. It thrives in a variety of tank conditions, contributing to oxygenation, nutrient absorption, and providing shelter for fish and invertebrates.
Care Requirements
Lighting: Moderate to high lighting (1–2 watts per litreor 30–50 µmol PAR for low-tech setups; higher for vibrant colours). Low light results in slower growth and less vibrant foliage.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 20–28°C
- pH: 6.0–8.0
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–15 dGH)
Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate (e.g., aquasoil) enhances growth, but it can grow in gravel or sand with root tabs or liquid fertilizers.
Nutrients: Requires moderate macronutrients (nitrate, phosphate, potassium) and micronutrients (iron, magnesium).
CO2: CO2 injection is optional but promotes faster, denser growth.
Tank Requirements: Prefers moderate flow to prevent debris buildup on leaves.
Planting and Propagation
Planting:
- Cuttings can be planted directly into the substrate, ensuring 2–3 nodes are buried for root development.
- Space stems 2–5cm apart to allow light penetration and prevent crowding.
- Can be used in midground or background positions due to its height (up to 60 cm).
Propagation:
- Easily propagated by cutting healthy stems (10-15cm long) just below a node and replanting.
- Side shoots often develop naturally, which can be separated and replanted.
- Healthy plants produce new shoots rapidly under optimal conditions.
Maintenance
- Trimming: Regular pruning is necessary to control height and encourage bushy growth. Trim the top portion and replant or discard.
- Cleaning: Gently rinse leaves during water changes to remove algae or debris.
- Fertilization: Supplement with liquid fertilizers or root tabs every 1–2 weeks, depending on tank nutrient levels.
- Water Changes: Perform 20–30% water changes weekly to maintain water quality and nutrient balance.
Monitoring: Check for leaf yellowing or melting, which may indicate nutrient deficiency or poor lighting.
Challenges and Tips
Challenges:
- Algae Growth: High light can promote algae on leaves if nutrient levels are imbalanced.
- Melting: New plants may shed leaves when adapting to new tank conditions; this typically resolves within 1–2 weeks.
- Overcrowding: Rapid growth can lead to shading of lower leaves or other plants, reducing photosynthesis.
Tips:
- Use a balanced fertilizer regimen to prevent deficiencies (e.g., iron for vibrant colouration).
- Pair with algae-eating species like shrimp (e.g., Amano shrimp) or fish (e.g., Siamese algae eaters) to keep leaves clean.
- Ensure adequate water circulation to prevent stagnation around the plant base.
- Transition new plants slowly by acclimating them to tank conditions to minimize melting.
- If growth is too rapid, reduce lighting duration (8–10 hours daily) or intensity.
Recommendation
- Tank Setup: Ideal for planted tanks with moderate to high lighting and nutrient-rich substrates. Works well in aquascapes aiming for a lush, natural look.
- Companions: Combines well with foreground plants like Dwarf Hairgrass or midground plants like Java Fern. Suitable tank mates include peaceful community fish (e.g., tetras, rasboras) and invertebrates like cherry shrimp.
- Beginner-Friendly: Its hardiness and low CO2 requirements make it an excellent choice for novice aquarists.
- Aesthetic Use: Use in the background for tall, flowing growth or trim shorter for midground accents.
