Description
Hygrophila Corymbosa Stricta
Price per stem, grown submerged.
Overview
Hygrophila corymbosa ‘Stricta’ (commonly known as Temple Plant or Stricta) is a popular aquatic plant in the aquarium trade, valued for its attractive, elongated green leaves and relatively easy care. Native to Southeast Asia, this fast-growing stem plant is ideal for midground or background placement in aquariums, adding lush greenery and a natural aesthetic. It can grow both submerged and emersed, with emersed forms potentially producing small purple flowers under optimal conditions.
Care Requirements
Lighting: Moderate to high lighting (30–50 µmol PAR for low-tech setups; higher for vibrant growth). Low light may cause leggy growth.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 20–28°C
- pH: 6.0–8.0
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2–15 dGH)
Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate (e.g. aquasoil) promotes robust growth, but it can thrive in gravel or sand with root tabs or liquid fertilizers.
Nutrients: Requires regular dosing of macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and micronutrients (iron, trace elements). Iron deficiency may cause yellowing leaves.
CO2: Not mandatory but enhances growth and colouration. 10–30 ppm CO2 is ideal for high-tech tanks.
Tank Requirements: Suitable for tanks as small as 40 litres, though larger tanks accommodate its potential height (60 cm).
Planting and Propagation
Planting: Insert stems 5–7cm deep into the substrate, spacing them 3-5cm apart to allow light penetration. Ensure at least 2–3 nodes are buried for root development.
Propagation:
Propagation:
- Easily propagated by cutting healthy stems (10–15cm long) just below a node and replanting. Remove lower leaves from the cutting to prevent rot.
- Side shoots may also develop from trimmed stems, encouraging bushier growth.
- If grown emersed (e.g., in a paludarium), provide high humidity and wet substrate to support transition.
Maintenance
- Trimming: Regular pruning is necessary to control height and encourage bushy growth. Trim the top 4–6 inches of stems and replant for propagation or discard. Remove dead or algae-covered leaves promptly.
- Cleaning: Gently rinse leaves during water changes to remove algae or debris. Avoid strong water flow directly on the plant to prevent damage.
- Fertilization: Weekly liquid fertilizer dosing or root tabs every 1–2 months for nutrient-poor substrates.
- Monitor for nutrient deficiencies (e.g., yellowing or stunted growth).
- Water Changes: Perform 25–50% water changes weekly to maintain water quality and prevent algae competition.
Challenges and Tips
Challenges:
- Algae Growth: High light and nutrient imbalances can lead to algae on leaves. Reduce light duration (8–10 hours/day) or adjust nutrient dosing. Adding algae-eating species like shrimp or otocinclus can help.
- Melting: New plants may shed leaves during acclimation. Maintain stable water parameters and avoid drastic changes to minimize stress.
- Leggy Growth: Insufficient light causes elongated, sparse stems. Increase light intensity or lower the plant’s position in the tank.
Tips:
- Pair with fish that don’t uproot plants (e.g., tetras, rasboras) Avoid large, herbivorous fish like silver dollars that may eat the plant.
- For a fuller appearance, plant in clusters and stagger heights. Use tweezers for precise planting in dense aquascapes.
Recommendation
- Hygrophila corymbosa ‘Stricta’ is an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists due to its adaptability and fast growth. It thrives in a wide range of conditions, making it ideal for low-tech setups, though it excels in high-tech tanks with CO2 and strong lighting.
- Combine with foreground plants like dwarf hairgrass or midground plants like Anubias for a balanced aquascape.
- For optimal health, invest in a quality liquid fertilizer and monitor lighting to prevent algae. Its versatility and aesthetic appeal make it a staple for creating lush, vibrant aquarium displays.
