Make your

aquarium
a success

The right aquarium

Page

The right plants

Page

The right fish

Page

Tropica ABC: This is how you start

Page 10

Layout inspiration

Page 14

Product categories

Page 18

Plants from A to Z

Page 20

Product overview

Page 65

Appendix (planting)

Page 66

Make your dreams

come true in 3 steps
TROPICAS GUIDE WILL HELP YOU MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE IN 3 STEPS.
THE INFORMATION IS FAR FROM EXHAUSTIVE, SO FOR MORE DETAILS,
PLEASE GO TO TROPICA.COM. YOU WILL HAVE A MUCH BETTER CHANCE
TO MAKE YOUR AQUARIUM A SUCCESS IF YOU SPEND SOME TIME
STUDYING THE 3 STEPS IN THIS GUIDE:
1: The right aquarium. Large or small? Who will take care

2: The right plants. The choice of plants depends on the

3: The right fish. There are many fish to choose from and

of it and what has to be done every week? Are there any

amount of light in your aquarium in relation to its volume and

we cannot feasibly cover all of them in this guide. We have

equipment requirements for the aquarium to work? There are

on whether you intend to give your plants CO2 and fertiliser.

created categories with the most general species based on

many questions! Regardless of whether you are buying a new

To help you, Tropica has developed a brand new concept

their characteristics and we offer you examples to help you to

aquarium or you already have one, it is very important to know

with a symbol for each plant so that you can easily choose

choose what is right for your particular aquarium. Common

what your aquarium can offer your plants and fish.

the right plants for your aquarium. The symbols and their

to all planted aquariums is that we always recommend algae-

meanings are detailed on page 7. We give example layouts

eating fish, shrimps and snails.

for aquariums with plants and here the only limit will be your
imagination! You can also see the videos and instructions at
tropica.com.

1: The right
aquarium
HERE YOU WILL FIND A DESCRIPTION OF THE MOST IMPORTANT CONDITIONS
YOU HAVE TO BE FAMILIAR WITH BEFORE CHOOSING AN AQUARIUM.

Aquarium choice is first and foremost a matter of taste. What

in all corners. The light is always strongest in the middle of the

and CO2 supply, but we recommend our own series Plant

will it look like and where will it be situated in your living space?

aquarium and less intensive in the corners. If you do not already

Care (information available at tropica.com).

Next, you have to decide who is to take care of the aquarium

have reflectors behind the light source, it is a good idea to install

and how much time will be spent on it every week. Also, when

them. They will reflect the light sending it down to the aquarium

An aquarium often needs heating. Most fish and plants require

it comes to aquariums and equipment, you get what you pay

thus maximising the effect of your light source.

the water temperature to be 22-25 degrees whereas special fish

for. Cheap starter layouts include limited equipment whereas the

such as Discus need 28-30 degrees. Remember to consult with

more expensive aquariums have better finish and better light.

In general, we recommend T5 fluorescent lamps for planted

your dealer. The simplest solution is an internal heater. Some

Regardless of your decision, both solutions can work provided

aquariums. Light that is close in spectrum to daylight is best

external filter models have a built-in heating element.

that your plant and fish choice are appropriate.

utilised by plants and provides accurate colour rendition. They

TIP: Please note that it is more difficult to achieve

stability when you have a small aquarium of 30 litres
compared to a larger aquarium of 100-200 litres.

can also grow very well with LED lighting. As far as operation

The function of the filter is to circulate the aquarium water, to

is concerned, the LED option is cheapest to run and does not

clean the aquarium from particles that can make the water ap-

generate heat like other light sources. Its initial price is quite high

pear cloudy and to biologically purify the aquarium water via the

and only a few types ensure optimal plant growth.

nitrogen cycle.

Apply fertiliser after 3-4 weeks when the plants have taken

Light is the most important energy source for plants. It is impor-

hold. CO2 is supplied from the beginning in order to speed up

tant to ensure that the light source is spread evenly over the

the growth of the plants and to enhance their colour. There are

surface of the aquarium so that the light can reach the plants

many options to choose from when it comes to both fertilisers

A specialist takes care of his/her aquariums every day.

The community aquarium is an adventure for the whole family.

The playroom a standard starter layout can work nicely here.

5

2: The right
plants
WE HAVE MADE IT EASIER FOR YOU TO BECOME AN AQUARIST!
WITH TROPICAS UNIQUE SYMBOLS EASY, MEDIUM AND
ADVANCED YOU CAN BE CERTAIN THAT YOU CHOOSE THE
RIGHT PLANTS SUITABLE FOR YOUR AQUARIUM IN PARTICULAR!
The concept in detail

Examples:

To make your aquarium a success you need to choose

1. The lighting levels supplied in many aquarium kits are often

the right plants. Many discover that their plants do not do well

relatively low. A 96-litre aquarium can be equipped with a fluore-

after planting. This is primarily due to purchasing a plant from

scent T8 18W lamp, so you should stock plants from the Easy

Medium or Advanced category, however, the aquarium does

category.

not offer enough light or CO2 that can help these plants grow!
2. A nano aquarium of 30 litres is equipped with an 18W Power
When a plant dies, it breaks down and a large amount of nutri-

Compact lamp with good reflector. If you choose a CO2 solution

ents are released into the water. Nutrients from dead or dying

from Tropicas Plant Care program, you can choose plants from

plants accumulate in the aquarium and cause algae to grow,

the Easy and Medium categories.

TIP: Remember

creating major problems in your aquarium. People often give up

3. If you are up for a greater challenge, you will find excellent

that the strongest light

quality aquariums in various sizes. Make sure that the light gives

is in the middle of the

Tropica would like to take co-responsibility for helping you to

at least 1 Watt per litre and that there is continuous CO2 supply.

aquarium. Therefore you

make your aquarium a success. Follow the directions for

If you follow these instructions, you can choose freely amongst

should place the most light-

choosing plants on the opposite page. Then you will be on the

Easy, Medium and Advanced plants.

demanding plants in the

and lose their interest in this hobby! We would like to fix this!

right path
6

!
middle of the aquarium!

The easy plants

These plants can thrive and grow well in low-light aquariums.
CO2 supply is recommended because the CO2 supply,
despite the low light, ensures the growth of the plants.
The time expenditure per week is less than hour
because the plants grow slowly.
Bottom substrate at the beginning and liquid fertiliser for
weekly use.

Plants that require a little extra

The plants require at least watt per litre to thrive.
CO2 supply is recommended to help plants grow with good
colour and density.
Weekly maintenance times of -1 hour will be required depending on the growth and development of the plants.
Bottom substrate and liquid fertilisers are required. Special

+ CO2
+ extra light

fertiliser is recommended.

The most demanding plants

The plants require 1 Watt per litre or more to thrive fully.
Continuous CO2 supply of 15-25 mg per litre is required.
Maintenance time is 1-2 hours a week. The plant growth
can pose challenges.
Bottom substrate and liquid fertiliser, including special
fertiliser, are required.

+ ekstra
CO2
+ high lighting
levels
7

Digging and
plant-eating fish
Territorial fish

3: The right fish

ASK YOUR DEALER ABOUT WHAT WILL BE SUITABLE FOR YOU AND YOUR
AQUARIUM. IN THE MEANTIME WE WILL GIVE YOU SOME GOOD TIPS.
Livebearing fish

Shoaling fish

The right balance between plants and fish in the aquarium are

Livebearing fish, such as the guppy and platy are mostly

important for ensuring a healthy environment, which promotes

peaceful and brightly coloured. The female give birth to their

natural fish behaviour. Most fish feel safest if they can hide

young, which use dense plants especially close to the surface

quickly and easily. People often prefer attractive colours and

as a hiding place because the young get eaten. Some males

want to look at their fish in a densely planted aquarium.

fight over the females and the ones that lose also hide in the
vegetation. Most livebearing fish eat algae and can potentially

In general, you should follow the advices below:

damage soft plants and moss.

Territorial fish want to have their own space either all the

1 cm fish per litre of aquarium water! This way you minimise

Digging and herbivorous fish including goldfish and some

time or only when they are young. Cichlids belong to this group.

cichlids, and most algae-eating fish, eat moss as well. With

You can observe very exciting behaviour patterns when several

plant-eating fish you can choose thick, tough leaves (such as

pairs are put together in a planted aquarium so that the fish can

Shoaling fish such as tetras, rasboras and barbs, seek refuge

Anubias) or plants with strong flavour (such as Bacopa). Digging

establish their territory.

in large groups known as shoals. Dense plants will give safety

fish tend to get frightened by strong roots which must be mature

to the relatively few individuals (however, no less than 8-10 fish)

before the fish are introduced! You can also cover the roots with

you have room for. Plants with delicate leaves are often used for

stones or wood, which should keep the fish away.

the algae growth!

Always use algae-eating shrimps, snails or fish from the start.

laying eggs and therefore offer exciting breeding potential.

8

TIP: We can recommend Tropicas Aquadecor

range, which includes robust plants with their roots
firmly fixed onto a tree root or a lava rock.

Community fish are fish that can share the aquarium with
many other kinds of fish. Community fish comprise primarily of
livebearers and shoaling fish, but if you rearrange the aquarium
afterwards, it will be able to accommodate even more kinds
of fish. Cichlids thrive if there are holes and hiding places, and
gouramis and angelfish seek security amongst plants.

One out of many examples of fish that need higher temperatures are Discus. People often refrain from plants in Discus
aquariums in order to facilitate the cleaning of the aquarium
and the changing of water. If you want plants for your Discus,
however, choose plants that grow naturally in places with high
temperature. Cryptocoryne, Microsorum and Echinodorus are
recommended.

Algae-eaters, shrimps and snails are very popular,

especially in the smaller nano aquariums. Shrimps in particular
do well with mosses. Many shrimp types are delicate, which
is why Tropica has developed a plant series called 1-2-Grow!
The plants are cultivated in a lab and are free from algae and
pesticides. Shrimps are very good at keeping delicate-leaved
plants such as Hemianthus, Marselia and Glossostigma free
from algae whereas snails are perfect for large leaves, windows,
stones and roots.

Tropica ABC:
This is how you start
Planning your aquarium is a prerequisite for achieving good

1. Find the appropriate pieces of wood, rocks, stones and other

results. Gain inspiration at your local dealer or at tropica.com

decorative elements you want to use in your hardscape. If you

before making your final choice. Spend the necessary time on

choose heavy stones, we can recommend adding polystyrene

planning and by all means on drawing the layout with the

at the bottom in order to protect the glass.

location of both decoration materials and plants.

2. Add about 1 cm substrate in the places where plants with

strong roots will be planted. We recommend Tropicas Plant

and other decorations but no plants. Creating a hardscape is

entirely up to your imagination. Some find it extremely interesting,
others do not like it so much. You can compare this activity to
standing before an easel and working with the paint brush. Most
of us try to do their best, whereas diligent artists understand
the colour setting, depth and perspective. Many competitions
are arranged around the world to determine the aquascaper
who can create the most impressive aquarium design. We can
recommend that you start with hardscapes, no matter whether
you have the talent of an artist or not!

10

distributed and it can slope upwards towards the rear wall of the
aquarium. This way you achieve depth and perspective in your
aquarium.
4. Finally, place the rocks, tree roots and any other decoration
you like. Move around individual components and change their
places, if necessary. It is now that you create room and perspective so that the aquarium layout design is just right for you.

FROM START TO CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Hardscape is an aquarium layout with gravel, rocks, tree roots

3. The bottom layer, which often consists of gravel, is carefully

Growth Substrate.

TIP! You can find many hardscape examples

in step-by-step guides at tropica.com

The easiest way to plant in the aquarium is at a water

When introducing a new aquarium, the first 90 days are

level of just a few centimetres from the bottom. Many aquarists

critical. To put it simply, the aquarium and the aquatic environ-

traditionally plant their plants when the aquarium is full, but this

ment must be in balance with regards plant growth, fish popula-

way it can be difficult to orient yourself in the water and to plant

tion and filtration. The plants have to adapt to the new conditions

properly in the gravel.

at a time where algae can thrive.

Carefully pour the water down a saucer when refilling in order to

avoid stirring up the bottom until the water level is approx. 2 cm

We advise you to follow the steps below:

above the gravel. Have a spray-mister ready in order to keep the

1. Set the lighting time to 6 hours a day in the first 2-3 weeks.

plants damp while you are working. The plants can easily get by

Then you can increase to 8-10 hours a day.

when they are kept wet! See the Appendix on page 66-67 for

2. It is a good idea to provide CO2 from day 1.

more information on handling specific plant types such as stem

3. Change the water 25-50% a couple of times a week in the

and rhizome plants.

first 3-4 weeks. After that, change approx. 25% of the water

Day 1. The aquarium is planted and filled with water.

Start with 6 hours of light a day.

once a week.
4. No fertiliser or a limited amount of fertiliser during the first 3-4
weeks. The plants contain plenty of nutrients already from the
nursery, which is sufficient to establish a root network.
5. Fast-growing plants such as Egeria and Limnophila, can
be planted permanently or removed at a later date once the
aquarium is balanced. Fast-growing plants absorb the excess

Day 20. The plants have taken hold but the aquarium is not
balanced yet. Beware of possible algae growth.

nutrients and therefore minimise the growth of algae.

6. Introduce algae-eating snails and shrimps as soon as possible after start-up.
7. We recommend that the introduction of fish is delayed for 3-4
weeks until the plants have established. In other respects, follow
the fish stocking guidelines for new aquariums.
8. Check the equipment does the plug-in-timer operate the
lighting effectively, is the CO2 supply sufficient, is the filter running, is the temperature OK?

Day 90. The desired result - good plant growth, great colour
and transparent water - is achieved.

TIP! Download App with Tropicas 90-day start-up

guide at tropica.com.

11

Maintenance
Once you get going and the aquarium is developing properly,
you have to start with more general maintenance:
1. Changing approx. 25% of the water every week prevents
the accumulation of hazardous substances in the aquarium and
limits the algae growth.
2. Waste products in the form of dead plant matter etc. should
be removed as soon as possible. Their breakdown uses oxygen
and produces nutrients that destroys the balance and promotes
algae growth.
3. Check the aquarium equipment regularly in order to make
sure that any faults and defects will be rectified and that a stable
environment will be maintained.
4. The plant growth is now in full swing and a liquid fertiliser has
to be added. Start carefully and with a dose smaller than the recommended. Increase the dose gradually according to the plants
reaction to the fertiliser. A good rule of thumb is that leaves or
plants become lighter/transparent when they lack fertiliser.
5. Check for algae on a regular basis. The first sign is unclear
water, accumulations on the glass, leaves or decorative materials, or possibly fine threads. If the algae become visible, it will
be much more difficult to suppress them! Algae are reduced by
changing the water, reducing the amount of fertiliser, introducing
more fast-growing plants and algae-eaters. You can find more
information at tropica.com.

12

TIP: Overfeeding your fish is the most common

cause of algae problems. Follow your dealers
instructions.

Trimming
The growth rate of the plants is very different and so is their
trimming. Extensive trimming can disturb the balance in the
aquarium, which is why little and often trimming is preferable.
This way the aquarium will look presentable all the time.
Trim stem plants (1) by regularly clipping the longest shoots

TIP! You can find many examples of how to

trim your aquarium in step-by-step guides at
tropica.com

leaving one of the bottom leaves and cutting the rest, then replant the shoots in the group. New shoots will emerge from the

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

trimmed stem.
The bottom layer and moss (2) are trimmed like a lawn,
in backward direction, in order to achieve fast new growth.
Echinodorus, bulbs and tubers (3) are trimmed by
removing the outer leaves of the rosette and/or leaves that cast
shadows over the surface.
For Cryptocoryne (4), remove the yellow or damaged leaves.
When the group becomes too dense, remove whole plants.
Stolons (5) are trimmed if they invade the surrounding plants.
The oldest plants can be replaced with stolons from time to time.
Rhizome plants (6) are slow-growing plants. The rhizome
stem itself is trimmed between a bunch of leaves when the plant
becomes too big. New shoots will form from the leaf base.

13

Layout inspiration
LET YOUR AQUARIUM DREAM COME TRUE.
HERE WE OFFER YOUR FOUR INSPIRATIONAL
LAYOUTS TO HELP INSPIRE YOU.

Scan the QR code with your smart-phone or click on the play

icon (when you are online) to view a step-by-step guide from
start-up to the final result.
Each layout is presented with a brief description (more details

TIP: The symbols Easy,

Medium and Advanced
indicate the plant selection
we recommend for your
specific aquarium.

are available at tropica.com), a list of plants and the associated

layout drawing. The symbols on each aquarium refer to the
description on page 7 and specify the plants we recommend in
relation to how much light the aquarium offers - how much light
does your aquarium offer?

A. Taxiphyllum barbieri (x2)

B. Cryptocoryne wendtii Tropica (x2)
C. Staurogyne repens (x2)
D. Echinodorus Reni (x1)

LAYOUT 43
BY TONY SWINNEY (30L)
Cubens 30 x 30 cm is perfect for a simple hardscape with only
one root placed in the middle of the aquarium. The root will look
more natural over time because it will be covered with moss.
The shape of the root is suitable for Anubias. Cryptocoryne
wendtii Tropica and Echinodorus Reni contribute to the red
shades of the root which emphasise the fresh green Staurogyne
in the foreground.

14

E. Echinodorus bleheri (x1)

F. Vallisneria nana (x1)
G. Anubias barteri var. nana (x2)

LAYOUT 44 BY MARK EVANS (200L)

Mark has designed a dramatic rock landscape where the eye

A. Alternanthera reineckii Purple (x1)

H. Rotala rotundifolia (x1)

is caught in the light green, luxuriant foreground and guided to-

B. Aponogeton crispus Red (x2)

I. Pogostemon stellata (x2)

C. Echinodorus tenellus (x6)

J. Vesicularia ferriei Weeping (x2)

wards the centre of the aquarium. Here we meet an abundance

of colours and shapes. Dark green moss and a dense tenellus
forest frame the V-shaped edge. The colourful stem plants are
challenging but if you succeed, they will be a nice contrast to

D. Hemianthus callitrichoides Cuba (x8)

E. Hemianthus micranthemoides (x1)
F. Ludwigia arcuata (x2)
G. Pogostemon helferi (x2)

the peaceful green foreground.

15

LAYOUT 45 BY EDUARD GERCOG (180L)

A natural layout with a focus on different shapes and colours.

A. Anubias sp. Petite (x4)

H. Ludwigia repens Rubin (x3)

Even though the aquarium is full of colours, the plants used are

B. Bolbitis heudelotii (x2)

I. Microsorum pteropus Narrow (x2)

C. Cryptocoryne wendtii Green (x3)

J. Monosoleum tenerrum (x1)

D. Cryptocoryne willisii (x3)

K. Myriophyllum mattogrossense (x4)

E. Echinodorus quadricostatus (x5)

L. Nymphaea lotus (x2)

F. Eleocharis parvula (x10)

M. Vesicularia ferriei Weeping moss (x5)

relatively easy to care for. The aquarium is maintenance-friendly

and will reach balance fast owing to many plants and a good
composition of fast-growing plants at the back and front, and
stable, easy plants in the middle of the aquarium.

16

G. Hydrocotyle tripartita (x3)

LAYOUT 46 BY DAN CRAWFORD (200L)

The plants from the Easy category are not only for starter

A. Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia (YLX, x3)

G. Microsorum pteropus Windelv (ZWS, x2)

aquariums they are also used in large, luxuriant and lavish

B. Echinodorus osiris (x3)

H. Pogostemon helferi (YLS, x5)

aquariums with minimum maintenance. Most plants have to be

trimmed a few times a year and the aquarium will look luxuriant
and healthy for a long time when you supply liquid fertilisers and

C. Echinodorus quadricostatus (x3)

D. Echinodorus tenellus (x5)
E. Microsorum pteropus (YLS, x2)
F. Cryptocoryne becketii Petchii (YLS, x5)

CO2. It requires less than hour of maintenance a week!

17

Our world of beautiful

aquarium plants:
EACH PRODUCT FROM TROPICA HAS BEEN TESTED AND ADAPTED
SO THAT WE GIVE EACH PLANT THE BEST POSSIBLE START WHEN IT
LEAVES THE NURSERY. OUR PRODUCT RANGE IS WIDE AND CAN
COVER ALL YOUR NEEDS IN A PLANT AQUARIUM. BELOW IS
AN OVERVIEW OF THE GROUPS OF PLANTS WE OFFER:

Pots are brimming with plants

AquaDecor are products

and have lots of mass and

where the plants grow on tree

healthy, well-developed roots.

roots or lava stones. The

Most pots can be divided

products are very lifelike from

into several portions

the beginning and create

depth as soon as they are

or individual

18

plants which

Tuberous plants are Nymphaea or

introduced in the aquarium.

are planted separately.

Aponogeton. Each tuber with an incipient

Often they can be used for fish that

Code: POT

shoot. The plants grow fast after being

eat or dig up the plants such as goldfish and cichlids.

planted and become relatively big. A

Code W (wood) - M (mini) are 7-10 cm, S (small) are 12-

sticker with the level of difficulty and infor-

25 cm and X (large) are 30-40 cm. Code L (lava stone)

mation about the plant is included

S (small) are 7-15 cm and X (large) are 20-30 cm, Code

with each tuber. Code: KN

Z suction disc at one end of the root.

Moss is sold in portions in sealed plastic containers. There is a big difference

between mosses, but all of them make
the aquarium more luxuriant and give it
greater depth. Can be tied to stones or
tree roots where they will form hanging
gardens. Perfect for laying eggs for different fish.
Code: POR

Floating plants are sold in portions in a sealed

plastic container. The plants give the aquarium
another dimension thanks to their hanging roots

XL pots are extra large

and their fast growth limits the growth of algae.

plants which are more robust

Ideal as plants that indicate the fertiliser level in

and give immediate luxuri-

the aquarium and perfect as a hiding place for

ance. Can be used together

young fish.

with AquaDecor products in

Code: POR

Cichlid aquariums.
Code XL

Bunches are groups of young plants or stems brought

NEW! 1-2-Grow! Consists of small plants straight from

together with the help of a small anchor. They have a few or

the lab in sealed containers. The plants are free from snails,

no roots. Roots are formed very soon after planting. They

algae and pesticides. Nutrient-jelly remnants are rinsed

are relatively easy, fast-growing plants which are excellent

thoroughly before planting and the small plants have to be

for the start-up phase.

fertilised from the very beginning. Recommended for nano

Code: BDT

aquariums and tanks with shrimps.

Code: TC
19

Hemianthus
callitrichoides Cuba

Plants from A-Z

TO HELP YOU GET STARTED WITH THE
PLANTS, WE WOULD LIKE TO BRIEFLY
SHOW YOU HOW TO READ OUR
PLANT DATA.

Each product sheet contains information about the plant, its

requirements as far as physical and water chemistry are concerned, as well as tips on how to handle the plant when you
introduce it to the aquarium and daily care. In short, all the information you must use to make your aquarium a success.
All products are supplied with information about their degree of
difficulty and plant data on a sticker or on the package.
At tropica.com you will find more facts about plants, in-depth
information about lighting intervals and growth rate, as well as
general descriptions of the importance of pH, temperature and
water chemistry. Furthermore, there are also layout pictures and
references on how plants are used in layouts.
The plants are presented in alphabetic order by name and on
page 65 you can see the variants we offer in the respective
product groups.

The Latin name of the plant.

An Easy, Medium or Advanced

symbol indicates the level of difficulty of the plant and its requirements
concerning light, CO2 and fertiliser,
as well as care requirements see
page 7.

The layout pictures of the plant in the

aquarium once it has adapted to the
conditions in the aquarium.

A description of the plant, including

origin, type (stem, rosette), height and
width in the aquarium, features, use in
the aquarium, as well as specific care
requirements.
Hand-painted watercolour that shows
the form and colour of the plant in the
aquarium.
Pictures of the product as received
from Tropica.

Size of root or lava stone.

Tropicas order number.
The price group of the product.
The bar code of the product.

20

Hemianthus callitrichoides is one of the smallest aquarium

plants in the world, and creeps over the bottom with
millimetre-sized round leaves. If planted in small clumps a
few centimetres apart, it will spread rapidly and cover the
bottom like a carpet. Hemianthus callitrichoides is an
attractive foreground plant for small aquariums. Found on
Cuba west of Havana.

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

048B POT

PG7

048B TC

PG7

048B YLS

PG10

Alternanthera
reineckii Mini

Alternanthera reineckii
Pink (roseafolia)

Alternanthera reineckii
Purple (lilacina)

This miniture version of the well-known Alternanthera is

characterized by compact growth and a slower growth rate.
It is particularly suitable for small aquariums or as a foreground plant in larger aquascapes. By careful trimming can
you create a dense, red-violet carpet approximately 5 to 10
cm high. High light intensity and addition of CO2 improves
the plants growth and overall apperance.

The purple colour underneath leaves of Alternanthera

reineckii Pink from South America provides an effective
contrast to the many green plants in an aquarium - particularly when planted in groups. Stems becomes 25-50
cm tall. Good light encourages the leaves to turn red. Easy
to propagate by nipping off the terminal bud and planting
it in the substrate. This also makes the mother plant more
bushy, because more side shoots are formed.

Alternanthera reineckii Purple from South America needs

plenty of light to grow and form dark-red leaves. Stems
grow to 15-40 cm. In open aquariums it grows easily to
the the water surface, and like other difficult plants growth
improves considerably if CO2 is added. Shortage of
micronutrients results in pale leaves. Like other stem plants
Alternanthera reineckii Purple looks best in groups.

023C TC

023 POT

PG7

PG5

023 BDT

PG3

023 XL

PG10

023B POT

PG6

21

22

Ammania
sp. Bonsai

Anubias
barteri var. angustifolia

Anubias
barteri var. barteri

Ammania sp. Bonsai is best described as a compact,

moderate growing version of Bacopa caroliniana. Plant in
small groups and trim often. Cuttings may be re-planted
in the group to achieve a more dense group or carpet.
At high light may the tip of the stems become reddish, at
lower light will the leaves become larger and the plant less
compact. Ammania sp. Bonsai are particularly suitable for
nano-aquariums.

Anubias barteri var. angustifolia from West Africa is a beautiful plant with long, narrow leaves. 10-20 cm tall with the
rhizome forming 10-15 cm or larger. Anubias barteri var.
angustifolia used to be sold as Anubias afzelii, but the latter
is actually a much larger species. It is grown in the same
conditions as Anubias barteri var. nana. It is not eaten by
herbivorous fish.

Anubias barteri var. barteri from West Africa is an undemanding plant. It grows somewhat larger than Anubias
barteri var. nana but is grown in the same conditions. From
25-45 cm tall, varies considerably in terms of size and leaf
shape. Like other Anubias-species, it is best planted in a
shady spot to restrict algae growth on the leaves. Herbivorous fish do not eat the very tough and robust leaves.

033E TC

101C POT

101A POT

PG7

PG8

PG8

Anubias
barteri var. caladiifolia

Anubias
barteri var. coffeefolia

Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia originates from an Australian tissue propagation laboratory. It is a very beautiful variety
with heart-shaped leaves. The leaves live for several years, so Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia can easily form large
groups despite its slow growth. A group of Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia growing more than 50 cm wide in a few
years is not unusual.

Anubias barteri var. coffeefolia is a very beautiful, low

cultivar of Anubias barteri. 15-25 cm tall and a creeping
rhizome from 10-15 cm or more. It is characteristic that
the leaves arch considerably between the leaf ribs, and
the new leaves are red-brown. The colour combination
and leaf shape make it an attractive variety. It flowers
frequently under water but does not produce seeds
there. It is not eaten by herbivorous fish.

101U POT

PG8

LAVA ROCK 20-30 CM

WOOD 30-40 CM

101 YLX

101 YWX

PG13

PG13

101U XL

PG12

101G POT

PG9

23

Anubias
barteri var. nana

Anubias
sp. Petite

Anubias barteri var. nana is a small, attractive plant which thrives in all conditions. It originates from Cameroon
and will reach 5-10 cm height. The best result is achieved by planting on a stone or tree root. Fishing line can
be used to attach the plant until it gains a hold. If planted on the bottom the rhizome must not be covered
because it tends to rot. It is not eaten by herbivorous fish.

Anubias sp. Petite is a mutation which appeared in cultivation at the Oriental aquarium plant nursery in Singapore.
Stays less than 5 cm tall. It is most decorative when
attached to stones or roots, and like other Anubias should
be attached with fishing line until it gains a hold. A specialty
plant which is ideal for miniature landscapes in small
aquariums.

101 POT

24

PG7

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

WOOD 12-25 CM

WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM

101 YLS

101 YWS

101 ZWS

PG11

PG11

PG12

101H POT

PG8

Aponogeton
boivinianus

Aponogeton
crispus

Aponogeton
crispus Red

Aponogeton boivinianus is a large, strong plant which is only

suitable for large aquariums. A bulb plant from Madagascar.
In favourable conditions it can form very large leaves (up to
80 cm long and 8 cm wide, and from 30-50 cm wide). The
oldest leaves are deep dark-green, while younger leaves
are light-green and sometimes brownish until they are fully
developed.

Aponogeton crispus from Sri Lanka look good in any

aquarium with its light-green, transparent leaves. Leaves
from 25-50 cm and the plant grows to 15-25 cm wide. It
makes few demands, although growth is always best in
soft, slightly acidic water with a nutritious bottom. In such
conditions the plant produces a mass of leaves, and it flowers very frequently in optimum conditions.

Aponogeton crispus Red is an interesting, red bulb plant.

A cultivar with red-violet, curly leaves which reaches 15-40
cm. With its moderate size, this graceful Aponogeton variety
looks spectacular as focal point contrasting against a light
green background. The plant is moderate to slow growing
and develops few or none floating leaves. Good light and
nutrient-rich conditions improves the plant characteristics.

088 KN

083 POT

083B POT

PG7

PG8

PG9

25

26

Aponogeton
longiplumulosus

Aponogeton
madagascariensis

Aponogeton
ulvaceus

Aponogeton longiplumulosus from Madagascar has large,

fluted leaves (35-60 cm long), making it a wonderful plant
which can be recommended for large aquariums (the whole
plant becomes 25-40 cm wide). It is relatively undemanding, and makes no special demands on water quality.

Aponogeton madagascariensis is a bulb plant from Madagascar and is a speciality in botanical gardens all over the
world. Aponogeton madagascariensis makes such high
demands on water quality and the bottom that it can only
be recommended as a solitary plant in large, specialised
aquariums in which the water is replaced frequently.

Aponogeton ulvaceus is one of the most beautiful bulb

species in the Aponogeton-family and originates from Madagascar. The leaves are delicate light-green and transparent
with fluted margin. A single root can produce more than 40
leaves, 30-60 cm long. This means that the plant is best as
a solitary plant in large aquariums (the plant becomes up to
50 cm wide).

089D KN

089 KN

086 KN

PG7

PG7

PG7

Azolla
caroliniana

Bacopa
australis

Bacopa
caroliniana

Azolla caroliniana from North America is a small (1-2 cm tall),

floating fern housing blue-green algae in its leaves. These
algae are capable of absorbing nitrogen from the air, which
can then be used by the plant. Azolla caroliniana is used as
nitrogen fertiliser in rice paddies, and as animal feed. There
are several related varieties on the market, with similar appearance. A decorative plant for open aquariums.

Bacopa australis was discovered in southern Brazil

(australis = southern), and it does not come from Australia,
as might otherwise be assumed from its name. Stems
become 10-30 cm tall and 2-4 cm wide. Like the other
Bacopa species, Bacopa australis is also easy to grow in
an aquarium. Under certain conditions it creeps across the
bottom to form an elegantly decorative light green cushion.

Bacopa caroliniana originates from US and has been used

as an aquarium plant for many years. Stems become 10-30
cm long and 3-4 cm wide. Apart from relatively good light it
makes few demands. Its slow growth rate makes it one of
the few stem plants that do not need much attention. Like
most stem plants, it is most decorative when planted in
small groups.

013 POR

043A POT

043 POT

PG6

PG5

PG5

043 BDT

PG3

27

Bacopa
monnieri

Bolbitis
heudelotii

Cabomba
caroliniana

Bacopa monnieri originating from Tropical areas is an easy

and highly recommended plant which thrives in almost all
conditions. It is a plant which is suitable for the hard water
found in many European aquariums. Propagate by cuttings;
take a side shoot or terminal bud and plant it in the bottom.
Most beautiful when a great number of stems are planted
in a group.

Bolbitis comes from West Africa, a fern with very beautiful

transparent green leaves, 15-40 cm tall and wide. When
planting do not cover the rhizome because it will rot, and it is
best to plant Bolbitis heudelotii on a root or stone. Keep the
plant in position with fishing line until it has gained a hold.
Growth can be increased considerably by supplying CO2,
and is only optimal in soft, slightly acidic water.

Cabomba is a very popular aquarium plant from South

America owing to its beautiful foliage. It reaches 30-80
cm and each stem can become 5-8 cm wide.The least
demanding of the Cabomba-species, but still causes
problems in poorly lit aquariums. If there is not sufficient
light, try Limnophila sessiliflora, which requires less light.
Most decorative when planted in groups. Eaten locally as a
vegetable.

044 POT

006 POT

WOOD 12-25 CM

28

PG5

PG8

006 XL

PG11

006 YWS

PG11

015 BDT

PG3

Cardamine
lyrata

Ceratophyllum
demersum Foxtail

Ceratopteris
thalictroides

Cardamine lyrata is actually a marsh plant from Japan. But

it is also a familiar aquarium plant which thrives under water
with 20-50 cm long stems. A characteristic trailing growth
form makes it highly decorative, and aerial roots often form
on the plant itself. Plant in groups, and make sure the water
temperature does not exceed 28 degrees C.

Ceratophyllum demersum Foxtail was found in a smaller

tributary in Bolivia during an expedition to Rio Guapore, a
boundary river between Brazil and Bolivia. Ceratophyllum
has no roots as such, but it can still be planted in the bottom of an aquarium and stems can become up to 80 cm
tall. Foxtail differs because its leaves are closer together
and it has lateral shoots, which gives it an attractive, compact appearance.

Ceratopteris is a pan-tropical fern, 15-30 cm tall and 10-20

wide. This plant normally grows fast, but the addition of CO2
may be necessary to promote growth. The finely branched
leaves are very decorative and provide good contrast to
other leaf shapes. In good light Ceratopteris thalictroides
grows fast and helps prevent algae by consuming large
amounts of nutrients. This makes it a good starter plant in
small aquariums.

024 POT

021A POR

005A POT

PG5

PG8

PG6

29

30

Cladophora
aegagrophila

Crinum
calamistratum

Crinum
natans

Cladophora aegagrophila is not really a plant, but a ball

of algae from 3-10 cm wide. It is a decorative exception
from the rule about avoiding algae at all costs. It is normally
found in shallow lakes, where the movement of the waves
forms it into a sphere. Cladophora aegagrophila can be
divided into smaller pieces, which become spherical with
time, or which form a carpet, if attached to roots and
stones.

Crinum calamistratum from West Africa is a very graceful

bulbous plant with dark-green, very narrow leaves. The curly
leaves becomes 40-120 cm long. It forms smaller bulbs
than the other Crinum-species, and demands more light. In
the aquarium plants that are thriving form a number of small
bulbs. It is not eaten by herbivorous fish. It can also be used
in brackish aquariums with low salt concentrations.

Crinum natans is a very beautiful and graceful bulbous plant

with dark green leaves from West Africa. Leaves grow to
50-150 cm long. Plant so the top 2/3 of the bulb is visible.
When the plant grows older (if it is thriving) it sometimes
forms small bulbs and sends a flower stem up to the water
surface with a beautiful and aromatic lily flower. The plant
varies considerably in leaf width and the shape of the leaf
margin.

000C ST

094A POT

094 POT

PG5

PG9

094A XL

PG13

PG9

094 XL

PG13

Crinum
thaianum

Cryptocoryne
beckettii Petchii

Cryptocoryne
crispatula

Crinum thaianum from Thailand is a distinctive bulbous

plant belonging to the lily family having 60-200 cm long
leaves. It is undemanding apart from the fact that it needs
plenty of space. Plant so the top 2/3 of the bulb is visible,
because otherwise the bulb tends to rot. When the plant
grows older it sometimes sends a flower stem up to the
water surface with an aromatic, elegant lily flower.

Cryptocoryne beckettii Petchii is a small variety of Cryptocoryne beckettii from Sri Lanka, which has beautiful,
slightly fluted leaf margins, 10-15 cm long. Leaves become
dark olive-brown with violet underside. Like many other
Cryptocorynes, the leaf colour and shape depends largely
on environmental conditions in the aquarium.

Cryptocoryne crispatula from Southern Thailand where

there are limestone mountains, and the water can be very
hard. Like many other Cryptocorynes it needs to acclimatise
before growth starts in earnest. Leaves becomes 20-60 cm
long and the single roset plant becomes 15-20 cm wide.

093 POT

108A POT

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

PG9

093 XL

PG11

PG7

108A YLS

PG10

125 POT

PG9

31

32

Cryptocoryne
parva

Cryptocoryne
undulata Broad Leaves

Cryptocoryne
wendtii Brown

Cryptocoryne parva from 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
blade under water.

The triploid variety of Cryptocoryne undulata from Sri Lanka

has wider leaves and a beautiful, flecked leaf pattern. It also
grows larger, from 15-25 cm, and the single roset becomes
10-20 cm wide. It is a hardy plant and do well under many
growing conditions.

Cryptocoryne wendtii Brown is a beautiful brown variety of

Cryptocoryne wendtii from Sri Lanka. It reaches 15-25 cm
and each roset becomes 10-15 cm wide. It is a mistake to
believe that Cryptocorynes require soft water. In large parts
of Sri Lanka the water is hard, so Sri Lanka Cryptocorynes
are almost all suitable for hard European water.

106 POT

110A POT

109C POT

PG8

PG7

PG7

Cryptocoryne
wendtii Green

Cryptocoryne
wendtii Mi Oya

Cryptocoryne
wendtii Tropica

Cryptocoryne wendtii Green is suitable for small aquariums

with heights from 5-15 cm and a roset from 8-15 cm wide.
When grown in an open space the leaves will virtually lie on
the bottom. Like most other Sri Lanka Cryptocorynes, it also
grows well in hard water.

This beautiful variety of Cryptocoryne wendtii is only

found in the river Mi Oya at Sri Lanka. It has characteristic
red-brown, slightly hammered leaves from 20-35 cm, and
15-30 cm wide rosettes. Many Cryptocorynes can grow at
high temperatures. In the wild this plant is found in streams
with a temperature of more than 30 degrees C.

This beautiful variety with the dark, hammered leaves is

named after Tropica. When grown in an open space the
leaves will virtually lie on the bottom. It is suitable for small
aquariums with leaves from 10-15 cm, and a rosette
from 10-20 cm wide. Like most other Sri Lanka Cryptocorynes, it also grows well in hard water.

109 POT

109D POT

109E POT

PG7

PG7

PG7

109E XL

PG11

33

34

Cryptocoryne
x willisii

Cyperus
helferi

Didiplis
diandra

This Cryptocoryne from Sri Lanka used (mistakenly) to

be called Cryptocoryne nevillii, but this is the name of a
species that has never been used in aquariums. Like many
other Cryptocorynes, not much happens the first month after planting. But then it starts to grow, and willingly produces
plenty of runners which form a compact group. The plant
becomes 7-20 cm tall, and each roset 7-15 cm wide.

Cyperus-species are widespread all over the tropics, but

only a few of them are good underwater plants. Cyperus
helferi from Thailand is the first Cyperus-species used in
aquariums, 20-35 cm tall and a roset from 15-25 cm wide.
It requires a relatively large amount of light, and CO2 addition is recommended to promote growth. In aquariums with
good water flow the plant sways beautifully in the current.

Didiplis diandra from North America is a fine plant which

should be planted in small groups with stems from 10-15
cm and 2-5 cm wide. In good light it develops red shoot
tips which form a beautiful contrast with other green plants.
A demanding plant which needs a lot of light and prefers
soft water. CO2 addition boosts growth considerably. Also
known as Peplis diandra.

107 POT

133A POT

031 POT

PG7

PG7

PG7

Echinodorus
Aquartica

Echinodorus
bleheri

Echinodorus
cordifolius ssp. fluitans

Characteristics of the cultivar Echinodorus Aquartica are

its round, bright green leaves. Its compact (10-20 cm),
low growth makes it suitable as a decorative solitary plant.
Slow growing and easy to care for, Echinodorus Aquartica
retains the refreshing green colour of its leaves in normal
lighting and nutrient conditions in the aquarium. Echinodorus Aquartica was developed by Kristian Iversen from
the Aquartica company.

Echinodorus bleheri from South America is undemanding

and beautiful, and becomes 20-50 cm tall. A nutritious
bottom promotes growth, but the plant needs pruning to
prevent it depriving plants underneath of light. Echinodorus
bleheri does well even in poorly illuminated aquariums, as it
grows towards the light. It is a hardy and easy solitary plant
for both beginners and the more experienced with quite
large aquariums.

A comparatively fast-growing Echinodorus from Mexico,

suitable for large aquariums reaching 20-50 cm long
leaves and a 15-30 cm wide roset. Unlike other roundleafed varieties of the species, Echinodorus cordifolius
ssp. fluitans is less likely to grow up over the water
surface. If it grows large enough, it forms large leaves just
under the surface instead.

074F POT

071 POT

073D POT

PG7

PG6

071 BDT

PG3

PG7

35

36

Echinodorus
osiris

Echinodorus
Ozelot

Echinodorus
Ozelot Green

In the 1970s coloured aquarium plants were rare, which is

why Echinodorus osiris with its red colour quickly became
popular. It originates from Brazil and becomes 25-50 cm tall
with a 20-30 cm wide roset. It is generally an undemanding
plant which is suitable for both soft and hard water. It is not
eaten by herbivorous fish.

Echinodorus Ozelot is a decorative hybrid between

Echinodorus schluteri Leopard and Echinodorus Barthii.
20-50 cm tall and a 20-40 cm wide rosette. Naturally, it is
the elliptical black spots on the red-brown leaves that have
given this plant the name Ozelot. The spots are darkest on
the youngest leaves, and unlike many other spotted Echinodorus, Ozelot retains its spots even at low light intensity.

A beautiful, dark-green variety of Echinodorus Ozelot,

20-50 cm tall and a 20-40 cm wide rosette. The dark spots
form a bigger contrast on the light leaves. The leaf margin
is fluted. A nutritious bottom promotes growth. It is an easy
and highly recommended plant, which thrives in almost all
conditions.

072 POT

073F POT

073G POT

PG8

PG8

073F XL

PG12

PG8

073G XL

PG12

Echinodorus
palaefolius var. latifolius

Echinodorus
quadricostatus

Echinodorus
Red Diamond

In marshy conditions Echinodorus palaefolius var. latifolius

from Brazil has round leaves with a horizontal leaf base.
Under water the leaves are narrower and longer (from 2040 cm). In the aquarium it tends to grow out of the water.
This can be prevented by removing the long leaves just
before they reach the water surface. The next leaves will
then become shorter and the plant will remain under water.

Echinodorus Quadricostatus from South America has

characteristic light-green leaves 10-15 cm long which form
a good contrast to the darker aquarium plants. It is most
beautiful when planted in groups, each roset becoming
15-20 cm wide. In good conditions it produces runners
which spread over the bottom. Very light leaves are a sign
of a shortage of micro-nutrients.

Echinodorus Red Diamond appeared as a culture in the

Ukraine, and is probably a cross between Echinodorus
horemanni Red and Echinodorus Barthii. The resultant
hybrid is an attractive plant with ruby-red sword-shaped
leaves, 15-25 cm long. Unlike many of the other Echinodorus-species, Echinodorus Red Diamond remains moderate
in size (20-30 cm wide roset).

076 POT

068 POT

074D POT

PG7

076 XL

PG12

PG7

PG8

37

38

Echinodorus
Red Special

Echinodorus
Reni

Echinodorus
Ros

Echinodorus Red Special is a hybrid of several different

cultivated plants, characterised by copper-coloured,
spatula-shaped leaves. In some cases these have darker
red patches. The plant grows abundantly in a compact
shape (approximately 20-30 cm tall and wide), and is very
decorative as a solitary plant.

Reni is a well-known cultivar characterised by being

amongst the smallest of the red Echinodorus, 15-40 cm
tall and a roset from 15-25 wide. The new leaves of the
plant are reddish-brown to deep beetroot in colour. It can
be used in small aquariums and is unpretentious. The plant
requires a lot of light and nourishment for optimal colour
development.

This beautiful plant is a hybrid between Echinodorus

horemanii Red and Echinodorus horizontalis. It was first
produced in 1986 by Hans Barth in Dessau and becomes
25-40 cm tall and a rosette from 15-25 cm wide. New
underwater leaves are a beautiful pink, and initially the
leaves have red-brown spots. A nutritious bottom promotes
growth, but otherwise Echinodorus Ros is undemanding
and thus an excellent plant for beginners.

073J POT

072D POT

072B POT

PG8

PG8

PG8

072B XL

PG12

Echinodorus
Rubin

Echinodorus
tenellus

Echinodorus
uruguayensis

Echinodorus Rubin is a decorative hybrid between Echinodorus horemanii Red and Echinodorus Barthii with up
to 60 cm long leaves and a roset from 20-40 cm wide. The
transparent, ruby-red leaves with light leaf ribs provide a
particularly intensive sheen. An undemanding plant whose
growth is stimulated by CO2 addition and a nutritious bottom. A good solitary plant for large aquariums.

Small foreground plants for aquariums are in short supply,

but Echinodorus tenellus from North America is one of
the best. The runners spread round the aquarium. A true
lawn effect appr. 5-10 cm tall is only achieved at high
light intensities, so you must make sure larger plants do not
overshadow the plant. Plant individual plants a couple of
centimetres apart (easiest with tweezers).

Echinodorus uruguayensis from South America has long,

narrow, transparent, dark-green leaves 20-55 cm long,
making it a very beautiful solitary plant for large aquariums.
The leaf length and width vary considerably. In good growing
conditions it forms an unusual number of leaves (10-30 cm
wide roset), and a nutritious bottom and CO2 addition and
slightly acidic water promote growth.

074B POT

067 POT

070A POT

PG8

074B XL

PG13

PG8

PG8

39

40

Echinodorus
Vesuvius

Echinodorus
Barthii

Egeria
densa

Echinodorus Vesuvius is a cultured species based on

Echinodorus angustifolia from Oriental Aquarium Plants.
The narrow and twisted green leaves makes it an unusual
addition to the Echinodorus family. The rosette species
grows vigorously with many medium length and narrow
leaves (10-20 cm tall), and is highly decorative as a solitary
plant (rosette 10-15 cm wide). Vesuvius spreads readily
with runners.

The cultivar Echinodorus Barthii is a decorative and beautiful solitary plant for large aquariums. It becomes 25-50
cm tall and the whole rosette 20-30 cm wide. The leaves
change colour from dark-red in the youngest leaves to
dark-green in the oldest. The colour develops well when the
light intensity is high and there are sufficient micro-nutrients
in the aquarium.

The cosmopolitan Egeria densa is a good plant for beginners, and its rapid growth helps create a balance in the
aquarium from the start. Stems grows fast to 40-100 cm
and becomes 2-4 cm wide. Egeria helps preventing algae
because it absorbs a great number of nutrients from the
water. The plant secretes antibiotic substances which can
help prevent blue-green algae (a type of bacteria).

067C POT

072A POT

058 BDT

PG9

PG8

072A XL

PG12

PG3

Eleocharis
parvula

Eleocharis
sp. Mini

Fissidens
fontanus

The cosmopolitan Eleocharis parvula has short leaves and

fast growth making it one of the most impressive carpetforming foreground plants, 3-10 cm tall depending on light
conditions. It spreads rapidly by runners. It is a relatively
easy and undemanding plant that does best with good light
and a nutritious substrate.

Eleocharis sp. mini has even lower growth than the

common Eleocharis parvula and was given to Tropica by
Thomas Barr from US. Plant the mini-version in small portions covering a larger area. In short time, a dense carpet
will be obtained. Needs light to perform optimal, however,
it is one of the most secure species for creating a carpet
and a minimum of maintenance since leaves stays small
(3-5 cm).

This featherlike Fissidens-moss with tight deep green down

comes from North America. It grows relatively slow and
requires much more light than other mosses. Suitable for
binding roots and stones both vertically and horizontally in
the aquarium.

132C POT

132B TC

002F POR

PG7

PG7

PG9

41

Fontinalis
sp. Willow

Glossostigma
elatinoides

Hemianthus
callitrichoides Cuba

Fontinalis antipyretica looks best when it reaches a bigger

size. Hence, the light green tips of each darker green stem
becomes visible. Fontinalis is an unassuming and easy
moss, which do well also at lower temperatures, and does
well in many types of aquariums.

Glossostigma elatinoides from New Zealand is much in

demand in Japanese-inspired aquariums. It is one of the
smallest aquarium plants (2-3 cm tall), and thus a good
foreground plant. A difficult plant demanding a lot of light.
Grows upwards if light is poor. Make sure larger plants do
not overshadow it. CO2 addition and soft water promote
growth significantly.

Hemianthus callitrichoides is one of the smallest aquarium

plants in the world, and creeps over the bottom with
millimetre-sized round leaves. If planted in small clumps a
few centimetres apart, it will spread rapidly and cover the
bottom like a carpet. Hemianthus callitrichoides is an attractive foreground plant for small aquariums. Found on Cuba
west of Havana.

003F POR

045A POT

048B POT

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

42

PG9

PG6

045A TC

PG7

PG7

048B TC

PG7

048B YLS

PG10

Hemianthus
micranthemoides

Heteranthera
zosterifolia

Hydrocotyle
tripartita

Hemianthus micranthemoides from North America is a

graceful plant whose small, arched leaves make it look like
a miniature version of Egeria. It has a characteristic trailing
growth in intensive light, so it can be used as a foreground
plant (stems from 10-20 cm tall, 2-3 cm wide). A compact
group of Hemianthus micranthemoides is very beautiful with
its small, light-green leaves.

Heteranthera zosterifolia from South America is an extremely

beautiful plant which forms a lot of side shoots and thus
quickly forms a bushy plant group. Stems can become
30-50 cm tall and 6-12 cm wide. In strong light growth is
intensive, and the plant must be pruned before it becomes
so compact that no light reaches the lower leaves.

Hydrocotyle tripartita is characterised by fast, compact

growth and small, intensive green leaves on vertical stems.
The plant is carpet-forming (5-10 cm tall) and its compact
growth can be promoted by physically pressing the carpet
with your hand when maintaining your aquarium (mechanical
retardation). Carpet formation and compact growth do best
in good light.

048A POT

096 TC

039B POT

PG7

PG7

PG7

43

44

Hydrocotyle
verticillata

Hygrophila
corymbosa

Hygrophila
corymbosa Angustifolia

Unlike other Hydrocotyle species, this plant retains its

trailing growth form. Verticillata originates from America and
becomes 3-7 cm tall. Optimum growth is only achieved in
strong light and soft, slightly acidic water. It does not need to
be rooted, but can be used as a floating plant. Hydrocotyle
verticillata is definitely a foreground plant which can also be
used in garden ponds.

Hygrophila corymbosa is an undemanding starter plant that

originates from Asia. In the aquarium it will spread fast and
create bright green, long and wide leaves. It is a fast growing plant that must be pruned frequently. New shoots will
spread from the stem and make the plant look bushier. The
cuttings can be re-planted in the bottom of the aquarium
where new roots form quickly.

This plant originates from South-East Asia and stems become 25-60 cm long with 10 cm long leaves. Under water
Hygrophila corymbosa Angustifolia has relatively narrow
leaves which are grouped close together. Plants sold in
the shops are normally cultivated above water, and have
rounder leaves with larger gaps between them.

039 POT

053 BDT

052A POT

PG6

PG3

PG5

Hygrophila
corymbosa Siamensis

Hygrophila corymbosa
Siamensis 53B

Hygrophila
difformis

Siamensis originates from Thailand and have stems from

15-40 cm and 10-15 cm wide. Leaves are light-green
and dense. In open aquariums Hygrophila corymbosa
Siamensis grows easily above the water surface, where it
forms blue-green leaves and small blue flowers. It grows fast
and the shoots must be pinched out regularly if you want
to keep the plant under water. An extremely hardy plant,
suitable for beginners.

Hygrophila corymbosa Siamensis 53B is a variety of

Hygrophila corymbosa Siamensis. This Hygrophila Siamensis 53B forms an incredible amount of side shoots and
becomes bushy relatively rapidly. Stems becomes 15-40
cm tall and 7-12 cm wide. Its beautiful bright green leaves
are narrower than the regular Siamensis and it can achieve
red-brown leaves in good light conditions.

Hygrophila difformis from Asia is beautiful and undemanding. Stems becomes 20-30 cm tall and 6-12 cm wide. A
plant for beginners which can help create a balance in the
aquarium from the start. Its rapid growth helps prevent algae
because the plant absorbs a great number of nutrients
from the water. The shortage of micronutrients leads to pale
leaves, which may be an indication that the aquarium needs
fertiliser.

053A POT

053B POT

051 BDT

PG5

053A XL

PG10

PG5

PG3

45

Hygrophila
pinnatifida

Hygrophila
polysperma

Hygrophila
polysperma Rosanervig

Hygrophila pinnatifida originates from India. It obtains brown,

patched leaves on the surface with a distinctive burgundy
colour underneath. It creates horizontal side shoots and
the top shoots should be pinched out in order to maintain
compact and attractive growth. The horizontal side shoots
easily attach to both wood and rocks. Stems 15-40 cm tall,
and the colour is attractive when planted in small groups
with a plain background.

Hygrophila polysperma from South-East Asia is one of the

hardiest aquarium plants available. Stems becomes 25-40
cm. It is particularly good for beginners because it grows
in almost all conditions. It normally grows so fast that it is
important to prevent it crowding out other plants. Hygrophila
polysperma varies considerably in leaf shape and colour,
depending to some extent on the light supplied.

Hygrophila polysperma Rosanervig is normally an undemanding plant. But if you want deep-pink leaves you must
provide intensive light. Stems becomes 20-40 cm tall and
5-8 cm wide. The distinctive colouring of the light leaf ribs
is probably caused by a virus which prevents chlorophyll
from being produced in the cells around the leaf ribs, making them white.

050 POT

050B POT

WOOD 12-25 CM

051A POT

46

PG8

051A YWS

PG10

PG6

PG6

Hygrophila
sp. Araguaia

Lilaeopsis
brasiliensis

Lilaeopsis
mauritiana

Araguaia is a river system in Brazil and it is under this name

that the plant has become known. There are many signs,
however, that the plant is a Hygrophila lancea from Japan
and Hong Kong. The stem becomes 10-20 cm tall. It has
compact, tight-sitting leaves and grows branches easily.
Pinching of the stems maintains a bushy look. The plant is
reddish brown to purple in colour and is promoted by good
growth conditions.

Lilaeopsis brasiliensis from South America can grow very

compact, but a lawn effect (4-7 cm tall) is only achieved
at high light intensity. When planting in the aquarium small
clumps (approx. 1/8 pot) should be placed a few centimetres apart to help the plants grow together more quickly.
Place in an open position without shading from other plants
to ensure good light.

This Lilaeopsis species demands less light than Lilaeopsis

brasiliensis, and stays also low (5-10 cm lawn). Tropicas
founder, Holger Windelv, found it on Mauritius in 1992.
The plants height and distance between its leaves depend
on the light intensity. The more light it gets, the lower the
plant and the denser the leaves. The runners spread round
the aquarium. Should be planted like Lilaeopsis brasiliensis.

051B POT

040 POT

040B POT

PG7

PG6

040 TC

PG7

PG7

47

48

Limnobium
laevigatum

Limnophila
aquatica

Limnophila
sessiliflora

Limnobium laevigatum from South America is a decorative

floating plant that is particularly suitable for open aquariums.
1-5 cm tall and leaves from 5-15 cm wide. It is also good in
traditional aquariums, because the fine, long and decorative
roots provide protection to gouramies and other surface fish
that like the roots of floating plants.

An extremely beautiful aquarium plant circled by light-green

and finely branched leaves from South-East Asia. In the right
growing conditions with added CO2 and a nutritious bottom
this plant grows fast and can become 25-50 cm long and
each stem up to 15 cm wide. In good light it forms horizontal side shoots and becomes attractive and bushy. Most
decorative when several stems are planted in a small group.

Limnophila sessiliflora is a good and undemanding plant

from South-East Asia which is a good alternative to
Cabomba, which demands a lot of light. Stems grows fast
up to 40 cm long and becomes 3-4 cm wide. The plant
often grows leggy in poor light, but this can be counteracted
to some extent by stimulating growth by CO2 addition. Most
beautiful when planted in groups.

063 POR

046 POT

047 POT

PG7

PG7

PG6

Lindernia
rotundifolia

Lobelia
cardinalis

Ludwigia
arcuata

Lindernia rotundifolia grows on sandy banks along streams

in Asia. The plant is undemanding and the stems with
marbled leaves quickly form compact groups. Lindernia
rotundifolia is suitable both for background and as a solitary
mid-ground plant with leaves growing tightly from top to bottom. A good starter plant that thrives under most conditions.

Lobelia cardinalis grows wild in Northern America. In the

nursery this plant is cultivated in marshy conditions, forming
dark-green leaves which are purple underneath. In aquariums the leaves turn a beautiful shade of light-green, with
stems 10-30 cm tall and 5-10 cm wide. It needs intensive
light to thrive. Widely used in Dutch aquariums in so-called
plant streets.

This is a narrow-leafed Ludwigia species from US, a plant

with 25-50 long and 3-5 wide stems. It is often mistaken for
Didiplis diandra. It requires a relatively large amount of light
before forming a red stem and red leaves, and thrives best
in slightly acidic, soft/medium hard water. The most decorative effect can be achieved by planting it in groups.

045 POT

053C POT

035 POT

PG6

PG5

PG7

49

50

Ludwigia
glandulosa

Ludwigia
repens Rubin

Marsilea
hirsuta

Ludwigia glandulosa from North America is a very beautiful

water plant. It is slow growing and requires CO2 addition
to grow well. Stems becomes 15-40 cm tall and 5-12 cm
wide. The leaves turn greener if sufficient light is provided.
Used to be sold as Ludwigia perennis.

Variety of Ludwigia repens from North America with striking dark red leaves and stalk. Stems from 20-50 cm and
4-6 cm wide. It makes a fine colour contrast to the green
shades in the aquarium. Plant in large groups to enhance
the decorative effect, and prune regularly to encourage
bushy growth. The plant makes few demands, but if light is
insufficient the lower leaves tend to fall off.

Marsilea hirsuta is a carpet-plant from Australia. A fascinating plant, usually delivered with leaves like a four-leaf clover.
After a transitional period it develops different types of
leaves, possibly a low form with single leaves like a large
Glossostigma, or alternatively develop two, three or fourlobed leaves varying in height (from 2-10 cm), depending on
the growth conditions.

035A POT

033D POT

010 POT

PG5

PG7

PG5

010 TC

PG7

Microsorum
pteropus

Microsorum pteropus is a water fern from Asia, 15-30 cm tall, which should be grown on a root or stone, attached with fishing line until it has
gained a hold. If it is planted in the bottom, do not cover the rhizome because it will rot. Easy to propagate by splitting the horizontal rhizome.
A hardy plant which grows in all conditions. The black spots under the leaves are sporangia (reproductive organs), not signs of disease as
many believe.

008 POT

PG8

008 XL

PG12

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

LAVA ROCK 20-30 CM

WOOD 12-25 CM

WOOD 30-40 CM

WOOD 30-40 CM

WOOD WITH SUCTION, 30-40 CM

008 YLS

008 YLX

008 YWS

008 YWX

008N YWX

500 OWX

PG11

PG13

PG11

PG13

PG13

PG13

51

52

Micranthemum
umbrosum

Microsorum
pteropus Narrow

Micranthemum umbrosum is a beautiful plant from US with

small round leaves. It is suitable for small or large aquariums
with stems becoming 10-25 cm long and 1-2 cm wide.
Relatively demanding in terms of light. CO2 addition is
recommended to promote growth. Once the plant starts
growing it grows fast, and the shoots have to be pinched
out often (can be planted as cuttings in the bottom).

Microsorum pteropus 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.

048 POT

008A POT

PG7

PG8

WOOD 12-25 CM

WOOD 30-40 CM

WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM

008A YWS

008A YWX

008A ZWS

PG11

PG13

PG12

Microsorum
pteropus Windelv

Microsorum pteropus Windelv is a patented variety of Microsorum pteropus, named after Tropicas founder Holger Windelv. Its finely
branched leaf tips make it one of the most beautiful aquarium plants. The Microsorum variety becomes 15-20 cm tall and wide. A hardy and
easy plant for both beginners and the more experienced. Best results are obtained by planting it on a stone or tree root.

WOOD 7-10 CM

008B POT

PG8

008B YWM

PG9

WOOD 12-25 CM

WOOD 30-40 CM

WOOD WITH SUCTION, 7-10 CM

WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM

HALF COCONUT

008B YWS

008B YWX

008B ZWM

008B ZWS

510 YCS

PG11

PG13

PG10

PG12

PG12

53

Monosolenium
tenerum

Myriophyllum
mattogrossense

Myriophyllum
mattogrossense Red

The Asian Monosolenium tenerum is an attractive liverwort,

2-5 cm high, which looks most like a giant Riccia that
simply stays at the bottom, where it forms cushions. It is
a brittle plant, and pieces break off easily, so it is best to
place it in the aquarium attached to stones with fishing line
or in small clumps among other plants such as Eleocharis.
Once Monosolenium has established itself, it is very
undemanding.

Myriophyllum matogrossense originates from Matto

Grosso in the Rio Amazonas, Brazil. It has decorative and
feather-like, reddish stems (30-60 cm long) and finely
divided bright green leaves (5 cm wide). In good light conditions the leaves spread out in a fan shape. Myriophyllum
is relatively easy and is suitable for the background.
A good starter plant.

The orange-red variety of Myriophyllum mattogrossense

from South America demands high light and nutrient levels
to develop optimally. It becomes 20-60 cm tall and each
stem 3-4 cm wide. Myriophyllum should be planted in the
center or background of the aquarium, and as a contrast
to green plants. The variety is fast growing and must be
trimmed often to keep a dense, compact growth. Cutted
stems can be planted next to the group to obtain an ever
denser group.

037 POT

037D POT

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

002C POR

54

PG7

002C YLS

PG10

PG7

PG7

Nesaea
crassicaulis

Nymphaea
lotus

Nymphoides
sp. Taiwan

Nesaea crassicaulis from Africa is a beautiful and highly recommended aquarium plant, although it has high demands
for light. It has red-brown, cognac-coloured leaves. Stems
becomes 30-50 cm and 8-15 cm wide. Grows best in soft
and slightly acidic water. Make sure the lower leaves get
sufficient light, otherwise they will die off.

A beautiful and very varied species from West Africa with

leaves of green to red-brown and varying numbers of
purple spots. Can grow from 20-80 cm tall. Before forming floating leaves Nymphaea lotus (zenkeri) forms many
underwater leaves. If you dont want floating leaves, prune
the roots and leaves. The beautiful, aromatic flowers can
be fully appreciated in open aquariums. Recommended as
a solitary plant for large aquariums.

Nymphoides sp. grows in Asia and Africa - and this variant

of the species originates from southern Taiwan. The rosette
plant can become 15-25 cm tall and 10-15 cm wide. This
variant is characterised by many underwater leaves and
the intense, light-green, transparent colour of the plant.
The plant is fast-growing and it is necessary to thin out the
leaves (remove oldest leaves and surface leaves).

033B POT

019 POT

041B POT

PG5

PG9

019 KN

PG7

PG8

041B TC

PG7

55

Pogostemon
erectus

Pogostemon
helferi

Pogostemon
stellata

The Indian Pogostemon erectus forms compact groups of

bright green, conifer-like stems, 10-20 cm tall and 1-3 cm
wide. Pogostemon erectus is suitable as a background
plant and creates a wonderful focal point in both smaller
and larger groups. Intense light helps the plant to stay
compact for a longer period. Moderate growth and vigorous
roots.

This plant was discovered by aquarists in Thailand, close

to the border with Burma. It is called Downoi (little star) in
Thailand, and it is easy to see why (5-10 cm tall and wide).
Pogostemon helferi is an unusual and distinctive aquatic
plant with a compact habit, curly leaves and a strikingly
beautiful green colour.

Pogostemon stellata from Asia and Australia is distinguished by its beautiful shape and colour. Stems from
20-60 cm and up to 10 cm wide. It is difficult to grow in
aquariums. It requires intensive light and the addition of
CO2 to grow well. The shortage of micronutrients leads to
pale leaves, which may be an indication that the aquarium
needs fertiliser.

053F POT

053H POT

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

56

PG8

053F TC

PG7

PG8

053H YLS

PG10

053G POT

PG7

Proserpinaca
palustris Cuba

Ranunculus
inundatus

Riccardia
chamedryfolia

Proserpinaca is a stem plant, 10-40 cm tall and 5-10

cm wide. Cultivated above water and delivered with
saw-toothed leaves, which after a transitional period in the
aquarium develop into long, finely denticulated, needle-like
leaves. In good light conditions it turns a beautiful copper
colour. The Tropica cultivar is found on the Isla de la Juventud off Cuba. In the USA the plant is commonly known as
mermaid weed.

This species comes from Australia and becomes 5-10 cm

tall. There are many species and variants of Ranunculus,
which grow coarse and leggy in aquariums. Ranunculus
inundatus is characterised by its compact form and
distinguished, deep-lying umbrellas. The plant forms many
vertical runners with new plants and over time thick bottom
coverage is formed. Good lighting produces compact
growth. Long leaves can be pruned.

Coral moss - thick and compact moss species with an intense, deep green colour from Asia, 1-3 cm tall. Riccardia
is specially suited for attaching to branches and stones.
The moss grows slowly and is easily overgrown by algae
or other mosses. Riccardia requires more light than other
moss species.

037C POT

022C POT

003D POR

PG8

PG7

PG9

57

Riccia
fluitans

Rotala
macrandra

Rotala
rotundifolia

Japanese Takashi Amano has inspired many aquarium owners

to keep the 1-5 cm tall cosmopolitic moss, Riccia fluitans,
submerged. It can be kept down by tying it to a stone with a
piece of fishing line, but new shoots always grow towards the
surface, so it may be necessary to prune it with scissors. Riccia fluitans thrives best with added CO2 and in good growing
conditions small oxygen bubbles form on the leaf tips.

Rotala macrandra is an unusually beautiful aquarium plant,

but unfortunately it is very demanding. It needs very good
light to develop its beautiful red colour, and CO2 addition
and soft water are vital to ensure reasonable growth. It is
most beautiful in groups, but do not plant individual shoots
too close because this will prevent light reaching the lower
leaves.

The Latin name means the plant with the round leaves.
But this only applies to the marsh variety, which has circular
leaves. Rotala rotundifolia from South-East Asia has long,
thin leaves (2-3 cm wide) and 15-30 long stems. Unlike
other Rotala species it is relatively undemanding, although
it needs good light to produce red leaves. It forms side
shoots willingly, becoming compact and bushy.

032 TC

033 POT

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

001 POR

58

PG7

001 TC

PG7

001 YLS

PG10

PG7

PG5

Rotala
sp. Green

Rotala
wallichii

Sagittaria
subulata

The asiatic Rotala sp. Green is very similar to Rotala rotundifolia, but its leaves remain fresh and bright green, even
with intensive light. Stems becomes 40-50 cm long and 2-3
cm wide. The plant forms many side shoots willingly and
obtains a beautiful, bushy and hanging growth. It should
be pruned frequently to maintain healthy growth. An ideal
starter plant that looks best when planted in large groups.

Rotala wallichii is a demanding, South-asiatic stem plant that

develops red shoot tips in good light conditions. Stems from
10-30 cm and approximately 5 cm wide. The most decorative effect can be achieved by planting a large number of
stems in a group. CO2 addition boosts growth considerably.
It also prefers soft, slightly acidic water.

Sagittaria subulata from South America is an ideal, undemanding foreground plant whose short runners form a
compact group. Place individual plants 2-4 cm apart. This
plant may cause problems because in certain conditions it
suddenly grows to a height of 50 cm when it grows older.
But if it is then moved into the background it may become
low again.

033A POT

032A POT

079 POT

PG6

PG7

PG7

59

60

Salvinia
natans

Shinnersia
rivularis Weiss-Grn

Staurogyne
repens

Salvinia natans is a cosmopolitic floating fern, 1-3 cm, that

grows quickly if there is sufficient nutrition and light. Light
leaves are a sign of a shortage of micronutrients. It tends to
shade light from the plants at the bottom. Salvinia varieties
have small hairs on their leaves, making them water resistant.
Helps prevent algae by shading parts of the aquarium and
using nutrients in the water.

Variety of Shinnersia rivularis, distinguished by the white

veins on the leaves, 30-60 cm long and up to 10 cm wide
stems. This colour mutation was discovered at the Dennerle aquarium plant nursery. The plant grows rapidly and
soon reaches the water surface, but shoots can simply be
pinched off and planted back on the bottom.

Staurogyne repens is a fresh green, compact and hardy

plant for the foreground of the aquarium and it was found in
River Rio Cristalino in the southern Amazonas. Staurogyne
has a compact, low and bushy stature (5-10 cm). During
planting in the aquarium, the longest upright shoots should
be cut off and new horizontally creeping shoots will soon
form from the plant basis and gradually colonize the gravel.

011 POR

053E POT

049G POT

PG6

PG7

PG8

049G TC

PG7

Taxiphyllum
barbieri

Taxiphyllum
sp. Spiky

Taxiphyllum barbieri from South-East Asia is a hardy plant which makes few demands on the water or light. The
moss becomes 3-10 cm thick and grows willingly on any surface, so it is ideal for decorating stones and tree
roots or concealing installations in the aquarium. Attach the plant with a piece of fishing line or cotton thread until
it has gained a hold on the dcor. If its growth becomes too luxuriant, it can be pruned with scissors.

Best described as Christmas moss big brother, but from

Asia, 2-10 cm tall, rougher and bigger with deep green,
branched shoots. Spiky moss does best on vertical
surfaces where the branched shoots settle in. It grows fast
and requires a lot of light to do well.

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

003 POR

PG7

003 ST

PG8

003 TC

PG7

003 YLS

PG10

003G POR

PG8

61

62

Utricularia
graminifolia

Vallisneria
sp. Gigantea

Vallisneria
sp. Natans

Utricularia graminifolia from Asia belongs to the bladderwort

family. All the plants in this family are insect eating, perennial
water and marsh plants. Bladder traps are a unique feature
of this family, which Utricularia graminifolia forms after a short
period of time in the aquarium. The species name means
with grass like leaves and the fresh green leaves after a short
period of time form a pretty mat which looks like a lawn (2-8
cm tall).

Vallisneria sp. Gigantea from Asia is an easy plant that

grows fast, suitable for large aquariums. In most aquariums
the leaves grow so long that they float on the surface (50150 cm, 2 cm wide). So the plant needs pruning to stop
it taking too much light from plants growing beneath. The
leaves are tough and strong, so they are not normally eaten
by herbivorous fish.

Vallisneria sp. Natans from Asia is a hardy plant for beginners. It has fine, narrow leaves (50-100 cm long, 1 cm
wide) so it does not overshadow other plants much. Easy to
propagate using its many runners.

049B POT

054 POT

055 BDT

PG8

PG8

054 PL

PG6

PG3

Vallisneria
sp. Mini Twister

Vallisneria
sp. Asiatica

Vallisneria
nana

Vallisneria sp. Mini Twister is yet another graceful variety

of Vallisneria americana. Mini Twister develops short, attractively twisted leaves (10-15 cm and 1-2 cm wide), and
can thus be placed between foreground and background
plants. Mini Twister is easy to grow and thrives even in less
intensive light and without addition of CO2 to the water.

Vallisneria sp. Asiatica has twisted, green leaves that make a

beautiful contrast when planted in groups. Its shorter leaves
(20-30 cm) differ from most other Vallisneria species and do
not overshadow other plants in the aquarium. An easy plant
that readily propagates via runners.

Vallisneria nana from Australia is a solitary contrast plant

with dark green, rosulate, narrow leaves (less than 1 cm).
It is extremely suitable as a mid-ground plant, but can also
be used as a background plant in small aquariums. The
leaves are much narrower than with other species of Vallisneria, nor are they quite as long. In aquariums it typically
grows to 30-50 cm, which no doubt reflects the different
light and nutrient conditions.

056B POT

056A BDT

056C POT

PG7

PG3

PG7

63

Vallisneria
spiralis Tiger

Vesicularia
dubyana Christmas

Vesicularia
ferriei Weeping

Vallisneria spiralis Tiger from Asia is an excellent plant for

beginners, growing in virtually all light and water conditions.
The name Tiger is due to its striped leaves (30-50 cm long,
1-2 cm wide). The relatively short leaves make it suitable for
small aquariums, and the leaves are also narrow so they do
not overshadow smaller plants. Forms runners easily, and is
thus easy to propagate.

A moss speciality from Brasil, 1-3 cm tall, called Christmas tree moss, because of its side branch structure
which distinguishes it from ordinary Vesicularia dubyana
and looks like fir tree branches. It is more demanding than
ordinary Java moss and grows more slowly. It attaches
readily to roots and stones, and as it spreads in the water
it needs pruning to keep its shape attractive.

Vesicularia ferriei Weeping, commonly known as Weeping

Moss, is believed to originate from China and has been
distributed by Oriental Aquarium Plants. Weeping is a
fleshy, 1-3 cm tall hanging moss with teardrop-like bright
green shoots. It is best attached to driftwood or roots,
as its drooping growth pattern helps to create depth and
contrast in the aquarium.

055A POT

003A POR

WOOD 12-25 CM

64

PG7

PG8

003A TC

PG7

003A YWS

PG9

003B POR

PG8

003B TC

PG7

Product overview
XL plants

Nr.

Symbol

Moss

Nr.

Symbol

1-2-Grow!

Nr.

Symbol

Alternanthera reineckii Pink (roseafolia)

023

Medium

21

Fissidens fontanus

002F

Advanced

41

Alternanthera reineckii Mini

023C

Medium

21

Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia

101U

Easy

23

Fontinalis sp. Willow

003F

Easy

42

Ammania sp. Bonsai

033E

Medium

22

Bolbitis heudelotii

006

Medium

28

Monosolenium tenerum

002C

Easy

54

Eleocharis sp. Mini

132B

Medium

41

Crinum calamistratum

094A

Easy

30

Riccardia chamedryfolia

003D

Advanced

57

Glossostigma elatinoides

045A

Advanced

42

Crinum natans

094

Medium

30

Riccia fluitans

001

Medium

58

Hemianthus callitrichoides Cuba

048B

Advanced

42

Crinum thaianum

093

Easy

31

Taxiphyllum barbieri

003

Easy

61

Heteranthera zosterifolia

096

Easy

43

Cryptocoryne wendtii Tropica

109E

Easy

33

Taxiphyllum sp. Spiky

003G

Easy

61

Lilaeopsis brasiliensis

040

Medium

47

Echinodorus Barthii

072A

Easy

40

Vesicularia dubyana Christmas

003A

Medium

64

Marsilea hirsuta

010

Medium

50

Echinodorus Ozelot

073F

Easy

36

Vesicularia ferriei Weeping

003B

Medium

64

Nymphoides sp. Taiwan

041B

Easy

55

Echinodorus Ozelot Green

073G

Easy

36

Pogostemon erectus

053F

Medium

56

Echinodorus palaefolius var. latifolius

076

Medium

37

Floating plants

Nr.

Symbol

Riccia fluitans

001

Medium

58

Echinodorus Ros

072B

Easy

38

Azolla caroliniana

013

Easy

27

Rotala macrandra

032

Advanced

58

Echinodorus Rubin

074B

Easy

39

Ceratophyllum demersum Foxtail

021A

Easy

29

Staurogyne repens

049G

Easy

60

Hygrophila corymbosa Siamensis

053A

Easy

45

Limnobium laevigatum

063

Easy

48

Taxiphyllum barbieri

003

Easy

61

Microsorum pteropus

008

Easy

51

Riccia fluitans

001

Medium

58

Vesicularia dubyana Christmas

003A

Medium

64

Salvinia natans

011

Easy

60

Vesicularia ferriei Weeping

003B

Medium

64

Publisher:
Tropica Aquarium Plants
Mejlbyvej 200
8250 Egaa
Denmark
Tel.+45 86 22 05 66
Fax.+45 86 22 84 66
e-mail: tropica@tropica.dk
www.tropica.com

Thanks to:
Christel Kasselmann
Claus Christensen
Dan Crawford
Eduard Gercog
Eu It Hai
George Farmer
Jan Ole Pedersen
Kirsten Hjrne
Kirsten Tind
Mark Evans
Ole Pedersen
Oliver Knott
Tony Swinney
Verner Hancke

Side

Side

Side

AquaDecor

Nr.

Symbol

Side

Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia

101

Easy

23

Tuberous plants

Nr.

Symbol

Anubias barteri var. nana

101

Easy

24

Aponogeton boivinianus

088

Medium

25

Bolbitis heudelotii

006

Medium

28

Aponogeton longiplumulosus

089D

Medium

26

Cryptocoryne beckettii Petchii

108A

Easy

31

Aponogeton madagascariensis

089

Medium

26

Hemianthus callitrichoides Cuba

048B

Advanced

42

Aponogeton ulvaceus

086

Medium

26

Hygrophila pinnatifida

051A

Medium

46

Nymphaea lotus

019

Medium

55

Microsorum pteropus

008

Easy

51

Microsorum pteropus Narrow

008A

Easy

52

Bunches

Nr.

Symbol

Microsorum pteropus Windelv

008B

Easy

53

Alternanthera reineckii Pink (roseafolia)

023

Medium

21

Monosolenium tenerum

002C

Easy

54

Bacopa caroliniana

043

Easy

27

Pogostemon helferi

053H

Medium

56

Cabomba caroliniana

015

Easy

28

Riccia fluitans

001

Medium

58

Echinodorus bleheri

071

Easy

35

Taxiphyllum barbieri

003

Easy

61

Egeria densa

058

Easy

40

Vesicularia dubyana Christmas

003A

Medium

64

Hygrophila corymbosa

053

Easy

44

Hygrophila difformis

051

Easy

45

Vallisneria sp. Natans

055

Easy

62

Vallisneria sp. Asiatica

056A

Easy

63

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Advertising agency:
envision
Christiansgade 30
8000 Aarhus C
Denmark

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Printer:
Scanprint a/s
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65

Appendix
Stem (Egeria, Hygrophila, Ludwigia)
If necessary, cut off the overgrown roots so that the pot and
stone wool can be removed and the roots trimmed to approx. 4
cm. In case of bundle stem plants with a ceramic ring, remove
the ceramic ring and the bottom leaves. Plant the stems one by
one in a group.
Rosette (Echinodorus, Cryptocoryne)
If necessary, cut off the overgrown roots so that you can remove
the pot and mineral wool. Trim the roots at approx. 4 cm. Divide
into single rosettes and remove the oldest/outermost leaves.
Plant alone or in a group.

Rhizomes (Anubias, Microsorum)

If necessary, cut off the overgrown roots so that you can remove
the pot and mineral wool. When planting in bundles, do not
cover the rhizome or the plant will rotten. The plant can be
bound or squeezed between stones or roots.

Bulbs and tubers (Crinum, Aponogeton)

Remove the pot and the mineral wool. Cut any strong roots at
approx. 4 cm. If there are several plants in the pot, separate
them from each other. Plant Crinum with approx. of the bulb
over the bottom layer. Tubers can be covered completely, but
the shoot must be above the bottom layer.
66

Stolons (Vallisneria, Lilaeopsis)

Remove the pot and the mineral wool. If applicable, trim the
roots at approx. 4 cm. Remove the ceramic ring from the
bundles. Plant the stems one by one in a group. Lilaeopsis,
however, in small portions.

Floating plants (Limnobium, Ceratophyllum)

You can cut the very long roots and Ceratophyllum can be
divided into small pieces. The plants are placed on the surface.
Note the shading effect they have further down in the aquarium.

Moss (Taxiphyllum, Monosolenium)

The portion can be divided into smaller portions. Used loosely
floating in the aquarium or bound to stones/roots. Very small
moss tufts can be inserted into the bottom layer to cover the
bottom.

Bottom layer (Eleocharis, Glossostigma)

Remove the pot and the excess mineral wool. Trim the mineral
wool chunk at approx. 2 cm under plant level to use it as an
anchor when planting. Divide into 4-10 portions and plant
evenly over the area you wish to cover.

67

Tropica Aquarium Plants A/S

Mejlbyvej 200
8250 Egaa
Denmark
Tel.+45 86 22 05 66
Fax.+45 86 22 84 66
e-mail: tropica@tropica.dk
www.tropica.com

5 | 4 | DKK 40