Plants

Cryptocoryne albida

IntermediateFreshwater

Origin: Cryptocoryne albida comes from Myanmar and Thailand, where it grows in streams and seasonally flooded areas. It is a small narrow-leaved crypt species.

Also known as: Cryptocoryne costata, Cryptocoryne albida

Fact sheet

Height: 18 cm
Temperature: 22–28 °C
pH: 6–7.5
Lighting: Low
CO₂: Not needed
Growth rate: Slow
Placement: Midground, Foreground

Overview

Cryptocoryne albida is a small narrow-leaved crypt with lanceolate leaves that, depending on conditions, are green, brownish, or faintly patterned. Its compact size makes it convenient for the mid- and foreground. It grows under low-to-moderate light without CO2, forming a group over time via runners. It is relatively hardy but, like all crypts, sensitive to sudden changes and may 'melt'. It is sometimes treated together with Cryptocoryne costata.

Appearance

A rosette of narrow lanceolate leaves on short petioles, 8–15 cm long. Colour ranges from green to brownish-olive, sometimes with faint mottling or a wavy edge. Height is 10–18 cm. It produces runners with daughter rosettes.

Care

Undemanding: low to moderate light, 22–28 °C, pH 6.0–7.5. CO2 is not required but improves growth. Nutrient-rich substrate is needed. It dislikes frequent moving.

Fertilizing

It feeds mainly through roots: nutrient-rich substrate and root tabs matter. Low-to-moderate nutrient demand.

Breeding

It propagates by runners with daughter rosettes, separated once rooted. It gradually forms a group.

Fun facts

Cryptocoryne albida is sometimes identified with Cryptocoryne costata. Its narrow leaves and compact size make it convenient for the foreground. Its colour depends greatly on lighting and water composition.