Plants
Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia
Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia
Origin: Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia is endemic to Sumatra, where it grows in swamps and along streams. It has long been known in the hobby as one of the most undemanding crypts.
Also known as: Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia
Fact sheet
- Height
- 28 cm
- Temperature
- 22–28 °C
- pH
- 6–7.5
- Lighting
- Low
- CO₂
- Not needed
- Growth rate
- Medium
- Placement
- Midground, Background
Overview
Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia is a hardy crypt with large broad heart-oval leaves on long petioles, resembling the leaves of Pontederia. It forms large rosettes for the mid- and background. It is one of the easiest and fastest-growing (by crypt standards) species: it grows under low light without CO2 and rarely 'melts'. Its light green leaves give an aquarium a fresh look. Over time it spreads by runners into thickets.
Appearance
A rosette of leaves on long petioles: the blade is broadly ovate-cordate, 8–14 cm long, light green, with a smooth or slightly wavy surface. Height is 20–30 cm. It forms large rosettes and runners with daughter plants.
Care
Very undemanding: low to moderate light, 22–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.5, a wide hardness range. CO2 is not required. Nutrient-rich substrate is needed. It is considered one of the most melt-resistant crypts.
Fertilizing
It feeds mainly through roots: nutrient-rich substrate and root tabs matter. Moderate nutrient demand.
Breeding
It propagates by runners with daughter rosettes, separated once rooted. It spreads relatively fast for a crypt.
Fun facts
The large heart-shaped leaves on long petioles resemble those of Pontederia, reflected in the name. It is one of the most undemanding and melt-resistant crypts. It is well suited to beginners.