Limnophila Aquatica sp. Dwarf
Limnophila Aquatica sp. Dwarf is a native of southeast Asia, where it grows along the banks of slow moving to stagnant bodies of water. It differs from the similarly sized L. aquatica in that the leaves near the shoot apex are pale green with a red tinge. Although it has been in the hobby for many years, L. sp. Dwarf is a very rare plant in the United States. However, one could always procure it from vendors that regularly import plants from Oriental Aquariums in Singapore.
When growing conditions are to its liking, L. sp. Dwarf grows at an astonishing pace that is typical for its genus. It spreads invasively into other plant groupings by producing runner-like stems at the base. To prune, simply cut the more robust top portions and replant. Propagation can be done by snipping off a side shoot from the main stem and replanting it into the substrate.
This fine-leaved stem plant is an excellent candidate for the background of medium to large sized aquariums. It looks especially beautiful in Dutch layouts where it is carefully contrasted with plants of differing leaf sizes, textures, and colors.
Alternanthera Reineckii Rosanervig
Alternanthera Reineckii Rosanervig features vivid pink leaves with lightly colored veins. Similar to other species in the Alternanthera family, this aquatic plant will grow best when provided with good aquarium lighting and a consistent fertilizer regiment. This species is slightly more sensitive and has a softer stem, so care should be taken when handling this aquatic plant. If given the best care, this aquatic plant is striking as a background choice in smaller aquariums or as a midground in larger planted tanks. Make sure to remove the lead weight and sponge from the stems and plant each stem individually before planting into your aquarium substrate.
Riccia Fluitans
Riccia Fluitans is a light green crystalwort that can be grown tied to hardscape or left as a floating plant. If tied to hardscapes, using a fine cotton or fishing line is the easiest way and can be a very fast growing and easy foreground. However, Riccia Fluitans is very useful as a floater as well, works great as a safety cover for shy fish and shrimps, where the added canopy will reduce jumping and skittish behaviors.
Microsorum Narrow (java fern)
Microsorum pteropus Narrow is a highly variable species, and new varieties are easily bred. Microsorum pteropus 'Narrow' has narrower leaves, which grow at a less acute angle from the stem than the normal Microsorum pteropus. Leaves becomes 10-20 cm and a rhizome from 10-15 cm or more. The plant attaches readily to roots and stones. A decorative plant, which is also suitable for smaller aquariums.
Hemianthus Micranthemoides ‘pearl weed’
Hemianthus Micranthemoides Pearlweed is a bright green, low-growing stem plant perfect for beginners. It is a versatile species which can be used for both foreground, midground and background. Constant pruning will keep it low growing and spread runners horizontally. Leaving it untrimmed will allow it to grow vertically as a background plant. The shape and growth of the plant depends on the conditions so you must plan accordingly if you have a specific vision for how it will fit into your aquascape. This plant is similar in appearance to other carpeting plants, and can be a low-maintenance alternative if you are having trouble getting foreground coverage in your tank.
Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Sindoor’
Cryptocoryne Parva (POT)
Cryptocoryne parva fromac Sri Lanka is the smallest of all Cryptocorynes (only 3-6 cm tall and a roset less than 5-8 cm wide). It is one of the few species that does not significantly change its leaf shape and colour depending on cultivation conditions. It needs more light than most other Cryptocorynes because it almost loses its leaf plate under water. So, it must never be overshadowed by other plants.
Known for its slow growth, but Nutrition Capsules in the bottom layer will enhance the development. Individual plants should be planted a few centimetres apart, and after about six months they will form a cohesive low group of plants.
Rotala Rotundifolia Orange (POT)
Rotala Rotundifolia Orange Juice hails from Italy. This aquatic stem plant is similar to its popular relative, Rotala Rotundifolia, but features bright orange coloration as its name states. Rotala Rotundifolia Orange Juice can be grown submerged or emersed and will produce rounder leaves when grown in its emersed form. When submerged, Rotala species sprout longer and more narrow leaves that pair extremely well against other green aquatic plants. When dosing high iron and Plant Food fertilizer, this stem plant can develop its intense coloration. This plant is perfect for background placement and can add some nice contrast to the usual green plants. It's best planted densely by separating the bundles into individual stems and spacing them out about half an inch apart to allow each stem enough space to grow. When planted in groups, it has a dazzling effect as a thick red bush in your aquascape.