Make your

aquarium
a success
The right aquarium Page 4

The right plants Page 6

The right fish Page 8

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
TROPICA’S 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
of it and what has to be done every week? Are there any
equipment requirements for the aquarium to work? There are
many questions! Regardless of whether you are buying a new
aquarium or you already have one, it is very important to know
what your aquarium can offer your plants and fish.
2: The right plants. The choice of plants depends on the
amount of light in your aquarium in relation to its volume and
on whether you intend to give your plants CO2 and fertiliser.
To help you, Tropica has developed a brand new concept
with a symbol for each plant so that you can easily choose
the right plants for your aquarium. The symbols and their
meanings are detailed on page 7. We give example layouts
for aquariums with plants and here the only limit will be your
imagination! You can also see the videos and instructions at
tropica.com.
3: The right fish. There are many fish to choose from and
we cannot feasibly cover all of them in this guide. We have
created categories with the most general species based on
their characteristics and we offer you examples to help you to
choose what is right for your particular aquarium. Common
to all planted aquariums is that we always recommend algae-
eating fish, shrimps and snails.

3
 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
will it look like and where will it be situated in your living space?
Next, you have to decide who is to take care of the aquarium
and how much time will be spent on it every week. Also, when
it comes to aquariums and equipment, you get what you pay
for. Cheap starter layouts include limited equipment whereas the
more expensive aquariums have better finish and better light.
Regardless of your decision, both solutions can work provided
that your plant and fish choice are appropriate.
!
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.
Light is the most important energy source for plants. It is impor-
tant to ensure that the light source is spread evenly over the
surface of the aquarium so that the light can reach the plants
4
in all corners. The light is always strongest in the middle of the
aquarium and less intensive in the corners. If you do not already
have reflectors behind the light source, it is a good idea to install
them. They will reflect the light sending it down to the aquarium
thus maximising the effect of your light source.
In general, we recommend T5 fluorescent lamps for planted
aquariums. Light that is close in spectrum to daylight is best
utilised by plants and provides accurate colour rendition. They
can also grow very well with LED lighting. As far as operation
is concerned, the LED option is cheapest to run and does not
generate heat like other light sources. Its initial price is quite high
and only a few types ensure optimal plant growth.
Apply fertiliser after 3-4 weeks when the plants have taken
hold. CO2 is supplied from the beginning in order to speed up
the growth of the plants and to enhance their colour. There are
many options to choose from when it comes to both fertilisers
and CO2 supply, but we recommend our own series ”Plant
Care” (information available at tropica.com).
An aquarium often needs heating. Most fish and plants require
the water temperature to be 22-25 degrees whereas special fish
such as Discus need 28-30 degrees. Remember to consult with
your dealer. The simplest solution is an internal heater. Some
external filter models have a built-in heating element.
The function of the filter is to circulate the aquarium water, to
clean the aquarium from particles that can make the water ap-
pear cloudy and to biologically purify the aquarium water via the
nitrogen cycle.
 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 TROPICA’S 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-
ents are released into the water. Nutrients from dead or dying
plants accumulate in the aquarium and cause algae to grow,
Compact lamp with good reflector. If you choose a CO2 solution
from Tropica’s Plant Care program, you can choose plants from
the Easy and Medium categories.
!
creating major problems in your aquarium. People often give up TIP: Remember
and lose their interest in this hobby! We would like to fix this! 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
right path… middle of the aquarium!

6
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 ½ 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 ½ watt per litre to thrive.
• CO2 supply is recommended to help plants grow with good
colour and density. + CO2
• Weekly maintenance times of ½-1 hour will be required de-
pending on the growth and development of the plants. + extra light
• Bottom substrate and liquid fertilisers are required. Special
fertiliser is recommended.

The most demanding plants

• The plants require 1 Watt per litre or more to thrive fully. + ekstra
• Continuous CO2 supply of 15-25 mg per litre is required.
• Maintenance time is 1-2 hours a week. The plant growth CO2
can pose challenges.
• Bottom substrate and liquid fertiliser, including special + high lighting
fertiliser, are required.
levels
7

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.
Shoaling fish
The right balance between plants and fish in the aquarium are
important for ensuring a healthy environment, which promotes
natural fish behaviour. Most fish feel safest if they can hide
quickly and easily. People often prefer attractive colours and
want to look at their fish in a densely planted aquarium.
In general, you should follow the advices below:
• 1 cm fish per litre of aquarium water! This way you minimise
the algae growth!
• Always use algae-eating shrimps, snails or fish from the start.
Shoaling fish such as tetras, rasboras and barbs, seek refuge
in large groups known as shoals. Dense plants will give safety
to the relatively few individuals (however, no less than 8-10 fish)
you have room for. Plants with delicate leaves are often used for
laying eggs and therefore offer exciting breeding potential.
8
Digging and
plant-eating fish
Territorial fish
Livebearing fish
Livebearing fish, such as the guppy and platy are mostly
peaceful and brightly coloured. The female give birth to their
young, which use dense plants – especially close to the surface
– as a hiding place because the young get eaten. Some males
fight over the females and the ones that lose also hide in the
vegetation. Most livebearing fish eat algae and can potentially
damage soft plants and moss.
Territorial fish want to have their own space – either all the
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
Anubias) or plants with strong flavour (such as Bacopa). Digging establish their territory.
fish tend to get frightened by strong roots which must be mature
!
before the fish are introduced! You can also cover the roots with TIP: We can recommend Tropica’s Aquadecor
stones or wood, which should keep the fish away. 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 tempera-

tures 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.

9
 Tropica ABC:
3. The bottom layer, which often consists of gravel, is carefully
distributed and it can slope upwards towards the rear wall of the
aquarium. This way you achieve depth and perspective in your
aquarium.

This is how you start 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 per-
spective so that the aquarium layout design is just right for you.
FROM START TO CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Planning your aquarium is a prerequisite for achieving good 1. Find the appropriate pieces of wood, rocks, stones and other
! TIP! You can find many hardscape examples
in step-by-step guides at tropica.com

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 Tropica’s Plant
Hardscape is an aquarium layout with gravel, rocks, tree roots Growth Substrate.
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
The easiest way to plant in the aquarium is at a water
level of just a few centimetres from the bottom. Many aquarists
traditionally plant their plants when the aquarium is full, but this
way it can be difficult to orient yourself in the water and to plant
properly in the gravel.
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
above the gravel. Have a spray-mister ready in order to keep the
plants damp while you are working. The plants can easily get by
when they are kept wet! See the Appendix on page 66-67 for
more information on handling specific plant types such as stem
and rhizome plants.
When introducing a new aquarium, the first 90 days are
critical. To put it simply, the aquarium and the aquatic environ-
ment must be in balance with regards plant growth, fish popula-
tion and filtration. The plants have to adapt to the new conditions
at a time where algae can thrive.
We advise you to follow the steps below:
1. Set the lighting time to 6 hours a day in the first 2-3 weeks. Day 1. The aquarium is planted and filled with water.
Then you can increase to 8-10 hours a day. Start with 6 hours of light a day.
2. It is a good idea to provide CO2 from day 1.
3. Change the water 25-50% a couple of times a week in the
first 3-4 weeks. After that, change approx. 25% of the water
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
Day 20. The plants have taken hold – but the aquarium is not
be planted permanently or removed at a later date once the
balanced yet. Beware of possible algae growth.
aquarium is balanced. Fast-growing plants absorb the excess
nutrients and therefore minimise the growth of algae.
6. Introduce algae-eating snails and shrimps as soon as pos-
sible 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 run- Day 90. The desired result - good plant growth, great colour
ning, is the temperature OK? and transparent water - is achieved.
! TIP! Download App with Tropica’s 90-day start-up
guide at tropica.com.
11
 Maintenance
!
TIP: Overfeeding your fish is the most common
Once you get going and the aquarium is developing properly, cause of algae problems. Follow your dealer’s
you have to start with more general maintenance: instructions.

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 rec-
ommended. 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 materi-
als, 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
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. TIP! You can find many examples of how to
This way the aquarium will look presentable all the time. trim your aquarium in step-by-step guides at
tropica.com
Trim stem plants (1) by regularly clipping the longest shoots
leaving one of the bottom leaves and cutting the rest, then re-
plant the shoots in the group. New shoots will emerge from the 1. 2.
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 3. 4.
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.

5. 6.
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

!
TIP: The symbols Easy,
icon (when you are online) to view a step-by-step guide from
Medium and Advanced
start-up to the final result. indicate the plant selection
we recommend for your
Each layout is presented with a brief description (more details 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
A. Taxiphyllum barbieri (x2)
relation to how much light the aquarium offers - how much light B. Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Tropica’ (x2)
does your aquarium offer? C. Staurogyne repens (x2)
D. Echinodorus ‘Reni’ (x1)

LAYOUT 43 E. Echinodorus bleheri (x1)

F. Vallisneria nana (x1)
BY TONY SWINNEY (30L) G. Anubias barteri var. nana (x2)
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
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)
B. Aponogeton crispus ’Red’ (x2) I. Pogostemon stellata (x2)
is caught in the light green, luxuriant foreground and guided to-
C. Echinodorus tenellus (x6) J. Vesicularia ferriei ‘Weeping’ (x2)
wards the centre of the aquarium. Here we meet an abundance
D. Hemianthus callitrichoides ’Cuba’ (x8)
of colours and shapes. Dark green moss and a dense tenellus E. Hemianthus micranthemoides (x1)
forest frame the V-shaped edge. The colourful stem plants are F. Ludwigia arcuata (x2)
challenging but if you succeed, they will be a nice contrast to 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)
B. Bolbitis heudelotii (x2) I. Microsorum pteropus ‘Narrow’ (x2)
Even though the aquarium is full of colours, the plants used are
C. Cryptocoryne wendtii ’Green’ (x3) J. Monosoleum tenerrum (x1)
relatively easy to care for. The aquarium is maintenance-friendly
D. Cryptocoryne willisii (x3) K. Myriophyllum mattogrossense (x4)
and will reach balance fast owing to many plants and a good E. Echinodorus quadricostatus (x5) L. Nymphaea lotus (x2)
composition of fast-growing plants at the back and front, and F. Eleocharis parvula (x10) M. Vesicularia ferriei ‘Weeping moss’ (x5)
stable, easy plants in the middle of the aquarium. G. Hydrocotyle tripartita (x3)

16
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 ‘Windeløv’ (ZWS, x2)
B. Echinodorus osiris (x3) H. Pogostemon helferi (YLS, x5)
aquariums – they are also used in large, luxuriant and lavish
C. Echinodorus quadricostatus (x3)
aquariums with minimum maintenance. Most plants have to be
D. Echinodorus tenellus (x5)
trimmed a few times a year and the aquarium will look luxuriant E. Microsorum pteropus (YLS, x2)
and healthy for a long time when you supply liquid fertilisers and F. Cryptocoryne becketii ’Petchii’ (YLS, x5)
CO2. It requires less than ½ 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
or individual depth as soon as they are
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.

18
 Moss is sold in portions in sealed plas-
tic 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 dif-
ferent 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
together with the help of a small anchor. They have a few or
no roots. Roots are formed very soon after planting. They
are relatively easy, fast-growing plants which are excellent
for the start-up phase.
Code: BDT
NEW! 1-2-Grow! Consists of small plants straight from
the lab in sealed containers. The plants are free from snails,
algae and pesticides. Nutrient-jelly remnants are rinsed
thoroughly before planting and the small plants have to be
fertilised from the very beginning. Recommended for nano
aquariums and tanks with shrimps.
Code: TC

19
 Hemianthus
callitrichoides ’Cuba’

Plants from A-Z

The Latin name of the plant.

An Easy, Medium or Advanced

TO HELP YOU GET STARTED WITH THE symbol indicates the level of dif-
ficulty of the plant and its requirements
PLANTS, WE WOULD LIKE TO BRIEFLY concerning light, CO2 and fertiliser,
SHOW YOU HOW TO READ OUR as well as care requirements – see
PLANT DATA. page 7.

Each product sheet contains information about the plant, its
requirements as far as physical and water chemistry are con-
cerned, as well as tips on how to handle the plant when you
introduce it to the aquarium and daily care. In short, all the infor-
mation 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
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
Hemianthus callitrichoides is one of the smallest aquarium
the aquarium, as well as specific care
plants in the world, and creeps over the bottom with
requirements.
millimetre-sized round leaves. If planted in small clumps a
few centimetres apart, it will spread rapidly and cover the
Hand-painted watercolour that shows
bottom like a carpet. Hemianthus callitrichoides is an
the form and colour of the plant in the attractive foreground plant for small aquariums. Found on
aquarium. Cuba west of Havana. 

general descriptions of the importance of pH, temperature and

Pictures of the product as received
water chemistry. Furthermore, there are also layout pictures and
from Tropica.
references on how plants are used in layouts.

The plants are presented in alphabetic order by name and on Size of root or lava stone.

page 65 you can see the variants we offer in the respective

Tropica’s order number.
product groups.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
The price group of the product.
048B POT PG7 048B TC PG7 048B YLS PG10

The bar code of the product.

20
Alternanthera
reineckii ’Mini’
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 fore-
ground 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.
023C TC PG7
Alternanthera reineckii
’Pink’ (roseafolia)
The purple colour underneath leaves of Alternanthera
reineckii ‘Pink’ from South America provides an effective
contrast to the many green plants in an aquarium - par-
ticularly 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. 
023 POT PG5 023 BDT PG3 023 XL PG10
Alternanthera reineckii
’Purple’ (lilacina)
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.
023B POT PG6
21
 Ammania
sp. ’Bonsai’
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.
033E TC PG7
22
Anubias
barteri var. angustifolia
Anubias barteri var. angustifolia from West Africa is a beauti-
ful 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.
101C POT PG8
Anubias
barteri var. barteri
Anubias barteri var. barteri from West Africa is an unde-
manding 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. Herbivo-
rous fish do not eat the very tough and robust leaves. 
101A POT PG8
Anubias Anubias
barteri var. caladiifolia barteri var. coffeefolia

Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia originates from an Australian tissue propagation laboratory. It is a very beautiful variety Anubias barteri var. coffeefolia is a very beautiful, low
with heart-shaped leaves. The leaves live for several years, so Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia can easily form large cultivar of Anubias barteri. 15-25 cm tall and a creeping
groups despite its slow growth. A group of Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia growing more than 50 cm wide in a few rhizome from 10-15 cm or more. It is characteristic that
years is not unusual. 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.

LAVA ROCK 20-30 CM WOOD 30-40 CM

101U POT PG8 101 YLX PG13 101 YWX PG13 101U XL PG12 101G POT PG9

23
 Anubias Anubias
barteri var. nana sp. ’Petite’

Anubias barteri var. nana is a small, attractive plant which thrives in all conditions. It originates from Cameroon Anubias sp. ‘Petite’ is a mutation which appeared in cultiva-
and will reach 5-10 cm height. The best result is achieved by planting on a stone or tree root. Fishing line can tion at the Oriental aquarium plant nursery in Singapore.
be used to attach the plant until it gains a hold. If planted on the bottom the rhizome must not be covered Stays less than 5 cm tall. It is most decorative when
because it tends to rot. It is not eaten by herbivorous fish.  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. 

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM WOOD 12-25 CM WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM

101 POT PG7 101 YLS PG11 101 YWS PG11 101 ZWS PG12 101H POT PG8

24
Aponogeton
boivinianus
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.
088 KN PG7
Aponogeton
crispus
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 flow-
ers very frequently in optimum conditions.
083 POT PG8
Aponogeton
crispus ’Red’
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. 
083B POT PG9
25
 Aponogeton
longiplumulosus
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 undemand-
ing, and makes no special demands on water quality.
089D KN PG7
26
Aponogeton
madagascariensis
Aponogeton madagascariensis is a bulb plant from Mada-
gascar 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.
089 KN PG7
Aponogeton
ulvaceus
Aponogeton ulvaceus is one of the most beautiful bulb
species in the Aponogeton-family and originates from Mada-
gascar. 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).
086 KN PG7
Azolla Bacopa Bacopa
caroliniana australis caroliniana

Azolla caroliniana from North America is a small (1-2 cm tall), Bacopa australis was discovered in southern Brazil Bacopa caroliniana originates from US and has been used
floating fern housing blue-green algae in its leaves. These (australis = southern), and it does not come from Australia, as an aquarium plant for many years. Stems become 10-30
algae are capable of absorbing nitrogen from the air, which as might otherwise be assumed from its name. Stems cm long and 3-4 cm wide. Apart from relatively good light it
can then be used by the plant. Azolla caroliniana is used as become 10-30 cm tall and 2-4 cm wide. Like the other makes few demands. Its slow growth rate makes it one of
nitrogen fertiliser in rice paddies, and as animal feed. There Bacopa species, Bacopa australis is also easy to grow in the few stem plants that do not need much attention. Like
are several related varieties on the market, with similar ap- an aquarium. Under certain conditions it creeps across the most stem plants, it is most decorative when planted in
pearance. A decorative plant for open aquariums.  bottom to form an elegantly decorative light green cushion. small groups.

013 POR PG6 043A POT PG5 043 POT PG5 043 BDT PG3

27
 Bacopa Bolbitis Cabomba
monnieri heudelotii caroliniana

Bacopa monnieri originating from Tropical areas is an easy Bolbitis comes from West Africa, a fern with very beautiful Cabomba is a very popular aquarium plant from South
and highly recommended plant which thrives in almost all transparent green leaves, 15-40 cm tall and wide. When America owing to its beautiful foliage. It reaches 30-80
conditions. It is a plant which is suitable for the hard water planting do not cover the rhizome because it will rot, and it is cm and each stem can become 5-8 cm wide.The least
found in many European aquariums. Propagate by cuttings; best to plant Bolbitis heudelotii on a root or stone. Keep the demanding of the Cabomba-species, but still causes
take a side shoot or terminal bud and plant it in the bottom. plant in position with fishing line until it has gained a hold. problems in poorly lit aquariums. If there is not sufficient
Most beautiful when a great number of stems are planted Growth can be increased considerably by supplying CO2, light, try Limnophila sessiliflora, which requires less light.
in a group.  and is only optimal in soft, slightly acidic water.  Most decorative when planted in groups. Eaten locally as a
vegetable. 

WOOD 12-25 CM
044 POT PG5 006 POT PG8 006 XL PG11 006 YWS PG11 015 BDT PG3

28
Cardamine
lyrata
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.
024 POT PG5
Ceratophyllum
demersum ’Foxtail’
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 bot-
tom 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, com-
pact appearance.
021A POR PG8
Ceratopteris
thalictroides
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. 
005A POT PG6
29
 Cladophora
aegagrophila
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.
000C ST PG5
30
Crinum
calamistratum
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.  varies considerably in leaf width and the shape of the leaf
094A POT PG9 094A XL PG13
Crinum
natans
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
margin.
094 POT PG9 094 XL PG13
Crinum
thaianum
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.
093 POT PG9 093 XL PG11
Cryptocoryne
beckettii ’Petchii’
Cryptocoryne beckettii ‘Petchii’ is a small variety of Cryp-
tocoryne 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.  
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
108A POT PG7 108A YLS PG10
Cryptocoryne
crispatula
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. 
125 POT PG9
31
 Cryptocoryne
parva
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.
106 POT PG8
32
Cryptocoryne Cryptocoryne
undulata ’Broad Leaves’ wendtii ’Brown’
The triploid variety of Cryptocoryne undulata from Sri Lanka Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Brown’ is a beautiful brown variety of
has wider leaves and a beautiful, flecked leaf pattern. It also Cryptocoryne wendtii from Sri Lanka. It reaches 15-25 cm
grows larger, from 15-25 cm, and the single roset becomes and each roset becomes 10-15 cm wide. It is a mistake to
10-20 cm wide. It is a hardy plant and do well under many believe that Cryptocorynes require soft water. In large parts
growing conditions.  of Sri Lanka the water is hard, so Sri Lanka Cryptocorynes
are almost all suitable for hard European water.  
110A POT PG7 109C POT PG7
Cryptocoryne Cryptocoryne Cryptocoryne
wendtii ’Green’ wendtii ’Mi Oya’ wendtii ’Tropica’

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Green’ is suitable for small aquariums This beautiful variety of Cryptocoryne wendtii is only This beautiful variety with the dark, hammered leaves is
with heights from 5-15 cm and a roset from 8-15 cm wide. found in the river Mi Oya at Sri Lanka. It has characteristic named after ’Tropica’. When grown in an open space the
When grown in an open space the leaves will virtually lie on red-brown, slightly hammered leaves from 20-35 cm, and leaves will virtually lie on the bottom. It is suitable for small
the bottom. Like most other Sri Lanka Cryptocorynes, it also 15-30 cm wide rosettes. Many Cryptocorynes can grow at aquariums with leaves from 10-15 cm, and a rosette
grows well in hard water.   high temperatures. In the wild this plant is found in streams from 10-20 cm wide. Like most other Sri Lanka Crypto-
with a temperature of more than 30 degrees C.   corynes, it also grows well in hard water.  

109 POT PG7 109D POT PG7 109E POT PG7 109E XL PG11

33
 Cryptocoryne Cyperus Didiplis
x willisii helferi diandra

This Cryptocoryne from Sri Lanka used (mistakenly) to Cyperus-species are widespread all over the tropics, but Didiplis diandra from North America is a fine plant which
be called Cryptocoryne nevillii, but this is the name of a only a few of them are good underwater plants. Cyperus should be planted in small groups with stems from 10-15
species that has never been used in aquariums. Like many helferi from Thailand is the first Cyperus-species used in cm and 2-5 cm wide. In good light it develops red shoot
other Cryptocorynes, not much happens the first month af- aquariums, 20-35 cm tall and a roset from 15-25 cm wide. tips which form a beautiful contrast with other green plants.
ter planting. But then it starts to grow, and willingly produces It requires a relatively large amount of light, and CO2 addi- A demanding plant which needs a lot of light and prefers
plenty of runners which form a compact group. The plant tion is recommended to promote growth. In aquariums with soft water. CO2 addition boosts growth considerably. Also
becomes 7-20 cm tall, and each roset 7-15 cm wide.  good water flow the plant sways beautifully in the current.  known as Peplis diandra. 

107 POT PG7 133A POT PG7 031 POT PG7

34
Echinodorus Echinodorus Echinodorus
’Aquartica’ bleheri cordifolius ssp. fluitans

Characteristics of the cultivar Echinodorus ’Aquartica’ are Echinodorus bleheri from South America is undemanding A comparatively fast-growing Echinodorus from Mexico,
its round, bright green leaves. Its compact (10-20 cm), and beautiful, and becomes 20-50 cm tall. A nutritious suitable for large aquariums reaching 20-50 cm long
low growth makes it suitable as a decorative solitary plant. bottom promotes growth, but the plant needs pruning to leaves and a 15-30 cm wide roset. Unlike other round-
Slow growing and easy to care for, Echinodorus ’Aquartica’ prevent it depriving plants underneath of light. Echinodorus leafed varieties of the species, Echinodorus cordifolius
retains the refreshing green colour of its leaves in normal bleheri does well even in poorly illuminated aquariums, as it ssp. fluitans is less likely to grow up over the water
lighting and nutrient conditions in the aquarium. Echino- grows towards the light. It is a hardy and easy solitary plant surface. If it grows large enough, it forms large leaves just
dorus ’Aquartica’ was developed by Kristian Iversen from for both beginners and the more experienced with quite under the surface instead.
the ”Aquartica’’ company.  large aquariums.

074F POT PG7 071 POT PG6 071 BDT PG3 073D POT PG7

35
 Echinodorus Echinodorus Echinodorus
osiris ’Ozelot’ ’Ozelot Green’

In the 1970’s coloured aquarium plants were rare, which is Echinodorus ’Ozelot’ is a decorative hybrid between A beautiful, dark-green variety of Echinodorus ’Ozelot’,
why Echinodorus osiris with its red colour quickly became Echinodorus schluteri ’Leopard’ and Echinodorus ‘Barthii’. 20-50 cm tall and a 20-40 cm wide rosette. The dark spots
popular. It originates from Brazil and becomes 25-50 cm tall 20-50 cm tall and a 20-40 cm wide rosette. Naturally, it is form a bigger contrast on the light leaves. The leaf margin
with a 20-30 cm wide roset. It is generally an undemanding the elliptical black spots on the red-brown leaves that have is fluted. A nutritious bottom promotes growth. It is an easy
plant which is suitable for both soft and hard water. It is not given this plant the name ’Ozelot’. The spots are darkest on and highly recommended plant, which thrives in almost all
eaten by herbivorous fish.  the youngest leaves, and unlike many other spotted Echi- conditions.
nodorus, ’Ozelot’ retains its spots even at low light intensity.

072 POT PG8 073F POT PG8 073F XL PG12 073G POT PG8 073G XL PG12

36
Echinodorus Echinodorus Echinodorus
palaefolius var. latifolius quadricostatus ’Red Diamond’

In marshy conditions Echinodorus palaefolius var. latifolius Echinodorus ‘Quadricostatus’ from South America has Echinodorus ’Red Diamond’ appeared as a culture in the
from Brazil has round leaves with a horizontal leaf base. characteristic light-green leaves 10-15 cm long which form Ukraine, and is probably a cross between Echinodorus
Under water the leaves are narrower and longer (from 20- a good contrast to the darker aquarium plants. It is most horemanni ’Red’ and Echinodorus ‘Barthii’. The resultant
40 cm). In the aquarium it tends to grow out of the water. beautiful when planted in groups, each roset becoming hybrid is an attractive plant with ruby-red sword-shaped
This can be prevented by removing the long leaves just 15-20 cm wide. In good conditions it produces runners leaves, 15-25 cm long. Unlike many of the other Echinodor-
before they reach the water surface. The next leaves will which spread over the bottom. Very light leaves are a sign us-species, Echinodorus ’Red Diamond’ remains moderate
then become shorter and the plant will remain under water.  of a shortage of micro-nutrients. in size (20-30 cm wide roset).

076 POT PG7 076 XL PG12 068 POT PG7 074D POT PG8

37
 Echinodorus Echinodorus Echinodorus
’Red Special’ ’Reni’ ’Rosé’

Echinodorus ‘Red Special’ is a hybrid of several different ‘Reni’ is a well-known cultivar characterised by being This beautiful plant is a hybrid between Echinodorus
cultivated plants, characterised by copper-coloured, amongst the smallest of the red Echinodorus, 15-40 cm horemanii ‘Red’ and Echinodorus horizontalis. It was first
spatula-shaped leaves. In some cases these have darker tall and a roset from 15-25 wide. The new leaves of the produced in 1986 by Hans Barth in Dessau and becomes
red patches. The plant grows abundantly in a compact plant are reddish-brown to deep beetroot in colour. It can 25-40 cm tall and a rosette from 15-25 cm wide. New
shape (approximately 20-30 cm tall and wide), and is very be used in small aquariums and is unpretentious. The plant underwater leaves are a beautiful pink, and initially the
decorative as a solitary plant.  requires a lot of light and nourishment for optimal colour leaves have red-brown spots. A nutritious bottom promotes
development.  growth, but otherwise Echinodorus ’Rosé’ is undemanding
and thus an excellent plant for beginners. 

073J POT PG8 072D POT PG8 072B POT PG8 072B XL PG12

38
Echinodorus Echinodorus Echinodorus
’Rubin’ tenellus uruguayensis

Echinodorus ’Rubin’ is a decorative hybrid between Echi- Small foreground plants for aquariums are in short supply, Echinodorus uruguayensis from South America has long,
nodorus horemanii ‘Red’ and Echinodorus ‘Barthii’ with up but Echinodorus tenellus from North America is one of narrow, transparent, dark-green leaves 20-55 cm long,
to 60 cm long leaves and a roset from 20-40 cm wide. The the best. The runners spread round the aquarium. A true making it a very beautiful solitary plant for large aquariums.
transparent, ruby-red leaves with light leaf ribs provide a ”lawn’’ effect appr. 5-10 cm tall is only achieved at high The leaf length and width vary considerably. In good growing
particularly intensive sheen. An undemanding plant whose light intensities, so you must make sure larger plants do not conditions it forms an unusual number of leaves (10-30 cm
growth is stimulated by CO2 addition and a nutritious bot- overshadow the plant. Plant individual plants a couple of wide roset), and a nutritious bottom and CO2 addition and
tom. A good solitary plant for large aquariums.  centimetres apart (easiest with tweezers). slightly acidic water promote growth.

074B POT PG8 074B XL PG13 067 POT PG8 070A POT PG8

39
 Echinodorus
’Vesuvius’
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.
067C POT PG9
40
Echinodorus
’Barthii’
The cultivar Echinodorus ‘Barthii’ is a decorative and beauti-
ful 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.
072A POT PG8 072A XL PG12
Egeria
densa
The cosmopolitan Egeria densa is a good plant for begin-
ners, 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).
058 BDT PG3
Eleocharis Eleocharis Fissidens
parvula sp. ’Mini’ fontanus

The cosmopolitan Eleocharis parvula has short leaves and
fast growth making it one of the most impressive carpet-
forming 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 por-
tions 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 PG7 132B TC PG7 002F POR PG9

41
 Fontinalis Glossostigma Hemianthus
sp. ’Willow’ elatinoides callitrichoides ’Cuba’

Fontinalis antipyretica looks best when it reaches a bigger Glossostigma elatinoides from New Zealand is much in Hemianthus callitrichoides is one of the smallest aquarium
size. Hence, the light green tips of each darker green stem demand in Japanese-inspired aquariums. It is one of the plants in the world, and creeps over the bottom with
becomes visible. Fontinalis is an unassuming and easy smallest aquarium plants (2-3 cm tall), and thus a good millimetre-sized round leaves. If planted in small clumps a
moss, which do well also at lower temperatures, and does foreground plant. A difficult plant demanding a lot of light. few centimetres apart, it will spread rapidly and cover the
well in many types of aquariums.  Grows upwards if light is poor. Make sure larger plants do bottom like a carpet. Hemianthus callitrichoides is an attrac-
not overshadow it. CO2 addition and soft water promote tive foreground plant for small aquariums. Found on Cuba
growth significantly.  west of Havana. 

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

003F POR PG9 045A POT PG6 045A TC PG7 048B POT PG7 048B TC PG7 048B YLS PG10

42
Hemianthus
micranthemoides
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.
048A POT PG7
Heteranthera
zosterifolia
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.
096 TC PG7
Hydrocotyle
tripartita
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. 
039B POT PG7
43
 Hydrocotyle
verticillata
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.
039 POT PG6
44
Hygrophila
corymbosa
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 grow-
ing 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. 
053 BDT PG3
Hygrophila
corymbosa ’Angustifolia’
This plant originates from South-East Asia and stems be-
come 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. 
052A POT PG5
Hygrophila Hygrophila corymbosa Hygrophila
corymbosa ’Siamensis’ ’Siamensis 53B’ difformis

‘Siamensis’ originates from Thailand and have stems from Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis 53B’ is a variety of Hygrophila difformis from Asia is beautiful and undemand-
15-40 cm and 10-15 cm wide. Leaves are light-green Hygrophila corymbosa ’Siamensis’. This Hygrophila ’Sia- ing. Stems becomes 20-30 cm tall and 6-12 cm wide. A
and dense. In open aquariums Hygrophila corymbosa mensis 53B’ forms an incredible amount of side shoots and plant for beginners which can help create a balance in the
’Siamensis’ grows easily above the water surface, where it becomes bushy relatively rapidly. Stems becomes 15-40 aquarium from the start. Its rapid growth helps prevent algae
forms blue-green leaves and small blue flowers. It grows fast cm tall and 7-12 cm wide. Its beautiful bright green leaves because the plant absorbs a great number of nutrients
and the shoots must be pinched out regularly if you want are narrower than the regular ’Siamensis’ and it can achieve from the water. The shortage of micronutrients leads to pale
to keep the plant under water. An extremely hardy plant, red-brown leaves in good light conditions. leaves, which may be an indication that the aquarium needs
suitable for beginners.  fertiliser.

053A POT PG5 053A XL PG10 053B POT PG5 051 BDT PG3

45
 Hygrophila
pinnatifida
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.
WOOD 12-25 CM
051A POT PG8 051A YWS PG10
46
Hygrophila
polysperma
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.  ing them white.
050 POT PG6
Hygrophila
polysperma ’Rosanervig’
Hygrophila polysperma ’Rosanervig’ is normally an unde-
manding 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, mak-
050B POT PG6
Hygrophila
sp. ’Araguaia’
“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.
051B POT PG7
Lilaeopsis
brasiliensis
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 centime-
tres apart to help the plants grow together more quickly.
Place in an open position without shading from other plants
to ensure good light.
040 POT PG6 040 TC PG7
Lilaeopsis
mauritiana
This Lilaeopsis species demands less light than Lilaeopsis
brasiliensis, and stays also low (5-10 cm “lawn”). Tropica’s
founder, Holger Windeløv, 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. 
040B POT PG7
47
 Limnobium
laevigatum
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.
063 POR PG7
48
Limnophila
aquatica
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 horizon-
tal side shoots and becomes attractive and bushy. Most
decorative when several stems are planted in a small group.
046 POT PG7
Limnophila
sessiliflora
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.
047 POT PG6
Lindernia
rotundifolia
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 bot-
tom. A good starter plant that thrives under most conditions.
045 POT PG6
Lobelia
cardinalis
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 aquari-
ums 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’’.
053C POT PG5
Ludwigia
arcuata
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 decora-
tive effect can be achieved by planting it in groups.
035 POT PG7
49
 Ludwigia
glandulosa
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.  the decorative effect, and prune regularly to encourage
035A POT PG5
50
Ludwigia
repens ’Rubin’
Variety of Ludwigia repens from North America with strik-
ing 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
bushy growth. The plant makes few demands, but if light is
insufficient the lower leaves tend to fall off.
033D POT PG7
Marsilea
hirsuta
Marsilea hirsuta is a carpet-plant from Australia. A fascinat-
ing 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 four-
lobed leaves varying in height (from 2-10 cm), depending on
the growth conditions.
010 POT 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. 

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 POT PG8 008 XL PG12 008 YLS PG11 008 YLX PG13 008 YWS PG11 008 YWX PG13 008N YWX PG13 500 OWX PG13

51
 Micranthemum Microsorum
umbrosum pteropus ’Narrow’

Micranthemum umbrosum is a beautiful plant from US with Microsorum pteropus is a highly variable species, and new varieties are easily bred. Microsorum pteropus
small round leaves. It is suitable for small or large aquariums ’Narrow’ has narrower leaves, which grow at a less acute angle from the stem than the normal Microsorum
with stems becoming 10-25 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. pteropus. Leaves becomes 10-20 cm and a rhizome from 10-15 cm or more. The plant attaches readily to
Relatively demanding in terms of light. CO2 addition is roots and stones. A decorative plant, which is also suitable for smaller aquariums.  
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).

WOOD 12-25 CM WOOD 30-40 CM WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM

048 POT PG7 008A POT PG8 008A YWS PG11 008A YWX PG13 008A ZWS PG12

52
Microsorum
pteropus ’Windeløv’

Microsorum pteropus ’Windeløv’ is a patented variety of Microsorum pteropus, named after Tropica’s founder Holger Windeløv. 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 WOOD 12-25 CM WOOD 30-40 CM WOOD WITH SUCTION, 7-10 CM WOOD WITH SUCTION, 12-25 CM HALF COCONUT
008B POT PG8 008B YWM PG9 008B YWS PG11 008B YWX PG13 008B ZWM PG10 008B ZWS PG12 510 YCS PG12

53
 Monosolenium
tenerum
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.
LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM
002C POR PG7 002C YLS PG10
54
Myriophyllum
mattogrossense
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 con-
ditions the leaves spread out in a fan shape. Myriophyllum
is relatively easy and is suitable for the background.
A good starter plant.  trimmed often to keep a dense, compact growth. Cutted
037 POT PG7
Myriophyllum
mattogrossense ’Red’
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
stems can be planted next to the group to obtain an ever
denser group.
037D POT PG7
Nesaea
crassicaulis
Nesaea crassicaulis from Africa is a beautiful and highly rec-
ommended 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.
033B POT PG5
Nymphaea
lotus
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 form-
ing floating leaves Nymphaea lotus (zenkeri) forms many
underwater leaves. If you don’t 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. 
019 POT PG9 019 KN PG7
Nymphoides
sp. ’Taiwan’
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).
041B POT PG8 041B TC PG7
55
 Pogostemon Pogostemon Pogostemon
erectus helferi stellata

The Indian Pogostemon erectus forms compact groups of This plant was discovered by aquarists in Thailand, close Pogostemon stellata from Asia and Australia is distin-
bright green, conifer-like stems, 10-20 cm tall and 1-3 cm to the border with Burma. It is called ’Downoi’ (little star) in guished by its beautiful shape and colour. Stems from
wide. Pogostemon erectus is suitable as a background Thailand, and it is easy to see why (5-10 cm tall and wide). 20-60 cm and up to 10 cm wide. It is difficult to grow in
plant and creates a wonderful focal point in both smaller Pogostemon helferi is an unusual and distinctive aquatic aquariums. It requires intensive light and the addition of
and larger groups. Intense light helps the plant to stay plant with a compact habit, curly leaves and a strikingly CO2 to grow well. The shortage of micronutrients leads to
compact for a longer period. Moderate growth and vigorous beautiful green colour. pale leaves, which may be an indication that the aquarium
roots.  needs fertiliser.

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

053F POT PG8 053F TC PG7 053H POT PG8 053H YLS PG10 053G POT PG7

56
Proserpinaca Ranunculus Riccardia
palustris ’Cuba’ inundatus chamedryfolia

Proserpinaca is a stem plant, 10-40 cm tall and 5-10 This species comes from Australia and becomes 5-10 cm Coral moss - thick and compact moss species with an in-
cm wide. Cultivated above water and delivered with tall. There are many species and variants of Ranunculus, tense, deep green colour from Asia, 1-3 cm tall. Riccardia
saw-toothed leaves, which after a transitional period in the which grow coarse and leggy in aquariums. Ranunculus is specially suited for attaching to branches and stones.
aquarium develop into long, finely denticulated, needle-like inundatus is characterised by its compact form and The moss grows slowly and is easily overgrown by algae
leaves. In good light conditions it turns a beautiful copper distinguished, deep-lying umbrellas. The plant forms many or other mosses. Riccardia requires more light than other
colour. The Tropica cultivar is found on the Isla de la Juven- vertical runners with new plants and over time thick bottom moss species. 
tud off Cuba. In the USA the plant is commonly known as coverage is formed. Good lighting produces compact
”mermaid weed’’.  growth. Long leaves can be pruned. 

037C POT PG8 022C POT PG7 003D POR PG9

57
 Riccia Rotala Rotala
fluitans macrandra 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. Ric-
cia 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.

LAVA ROCK 7-15 CM

001 POR PG7 001 TC PG7 001 YLS PG10 032 TC PG7 033 POT PG5

58
Rotala
sp. ’Green’
The asiatic Rotala sp. ‘Green’ is very similar to Rotala rotun-
difolia, 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.
033A POT PG6
Rotala
wallichii
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 decora-
tive 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.  But if it is then moved into the background it may become
032A POT PG7
Sagittaria
subulata
Sagittaria subulata from South America is an ideal, un-
demanding 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.
low again.
079 POT PG7
59
 Salvinia
natans
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.
011 POR PG6
60
Shinnersia
rivularis ’Weiss-Grün’
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 Den-
nerle 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.
053E POT PG7
Staurogyne
repens
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.
049G POT PG8 049G TC PG7
Taxiphyllum Taxiphyllum
barbieri sp. ’Spiky’

Taxiphyllum barbieri from South-East Asia is a hardy plant which makes few demands on the water or light. The Best described as Christmas moss’ big brother, but from
moss becomes 3-10 cm thick and grows willingly on any surface, so it is ideal for decorating stones and tree Asia, 2-10 cm tall, rougher and bigger with deep green,
roots or concealing installations in the aquarium. Attach the plant with a piece of fishing line or cotton thread until branched shoots. Spiky moss does best on vertical
it has gained a hold on the décor. If its growth becomes too luxuriant, it can be pruned with scissors. 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
 Utricularia
graminifolia
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).
049B POT PG8
62
Vallisneria
sp. ’Gigantea’
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 (50-
150 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.
054 POT PG8 054 PL PG6
Vallisneria
sp. ’Natans’
Vallisneria sp. ‘Natans’ from Asia is a hardy plant for begin-
ners. 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. 
055 BDT PG3
Vallisneria Vallisneria Vallisneria
sp. ’Mini Twister’ sp. ’Asiatica’ nana

Vallisneria sp. ‘Mini Twister’ is yet another graceful variety Vallisneria sp. Asiatica has twisted, green leaves that make a Vallisneria nana from Australia is a solitary contrast plant
of Vallisneria americana. ‘Mini Twister’ develops short, at- beautiful contrast when planted in groups. Its shorter leaves with dark green, rosulate, narrow leaves (less than 1 cm).
tractively twisted leaves (10-15 cm and 1-2 cm wide), and (20-30 cm) differ from most other Vallisneria species and do It is extremely suitable as a mid-ground plant, but can also
can thus be placed between foreground and background not overshadow other plants in the aquarium. An easy plant be used as a background plant in small aquariums. The
plants. ‘Mini Twister’ is easy to grow and thrives even in less that readily propagates via runners.  leaves are much narrower than with other species of Val-
intensive light and without addition of CO2 to the water.  lisneria, 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 PG7 056A BDT PG3 056C POT PG7

63
 Vallisneria Vesicularia Vesicularia
spiralis ’Tiger’ dubyana ’Christmas’ ferriei ’Weeping’

Vallisneria spiralis ’Tiger’ from Asia is an excellent plant for A moss speciality from Brasil, 1-3 cm tall, called ”Christ- Vesicularia ferriei ’Weeping’, commonly known as Weeping
beginners, growing in virtually all light and water conditions. mas tree moss’’, because of its side branch structure Moss, is believed to originate from China and has been
The name ’Tiger’ is due to its striped leaves (30-50 cm long, which distinguishes it from ordinary Vesicularia dubyana distributed by Oriental Aquarium Plants. ’Weeping’ is a
1-2 cm wide). The relatively short leaves make it suitable for and looks like fir tree branches. It is more demanding than fleshy, 1-3 cm tall hanging moss with teardrop-like bright
small aquariums, and the leaves are also narrow so they do ordinary Java moss and grows more slowly. It attaches green shoots. It is best attached to driftwood or roots,
not overshadow smaller plants. Forms runners easily, and is readily to roots and stones, and as it spreads in the water as its drooping growth pattern helps to create depth and
thus easy to propagate.  it needs pruning to keep its shape attractive. contrast in the aquarium.

WOOD 12-25 CM
055A POT PG7 003A POR PG8 003A TC PG7 003A YWS PG9 003B POR PG8 003B TC PG7

64
Product overview

XL plants Nr. Symbol Side Moss Nr. Symbol Side 1-2-Grow! Nr. Symbol Side
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 Side Riccia fluitans 001 Medium 58
Echinodorus ’Rosé’ 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
AquaDecor Nr. Symbol Side
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia 101 Easy 23 Tuberous plants Nr. Symbol Side Publisher: Thanks to:
Anubias barteri var. nana 101 Easy 24 Aponogeton boivinianus 088 Medium 25 Tropica Aquarium Plants Christel Kasselmann
Bolbitis heudelotii 006 Medium 28 Aponogeton longiplumulosus 089D Medium 26 Mejlbyvej 200 Claus Christensen
Cryptocoryne beckettii ’Petchii’ 108A Easy 31 Aponogeton madagascariensis 089 Medium 26 8250 Egaa Dan Crawford
Hemianthus callitrichoides ’Cuba’ 048B Advanced 42 Aponogeton ulvaceus 086 Medium 26 Denmark Eduard Gercog
Hygrophila pinnatifida 051A Medium 46 Nymphaea lotus 019 Medium 55 Tel.+45 86 22 05 66 Eu It Hai
Microsorum pteropus 008 Easy 51 Fax.+45 86 22 84 66 George Farmer
Microsorum pteropus ’Narrow’ 008A Easy 52 Bunches Nr. Symbol Side e-mail: tropica@tropica.dk Jan Ole Pedersen
Microsorum pteropus ’Windeløv’ 008B Easy 53 Alternanthera reineckii ’Pink’ (roseafolia) 023 Medium 21
www.tropica.com Kirsten Hjørne
Monosolenium tenerum 002C Easy 54 Bacopa caroliniana 043 Easy 27
Kirsten Tind
Pogostemon helferi 053H Medium 56 Cabomba caroliniana 015 Easy 28
Advertising agency: Mark Evans
Riccia fluitans 001 Medium 58 Echinodorus bleheri 071 Easy 35
envision Ole Pedersen
Taxiphyllum barbieri 003 Easy 61 Egeria densa 058 Easy 40
Christiansgade 30 Oliver Knott
Vesicularia dubyana ’Christmas’ 003A Medium 64 Hygrophila corymbosa 053 Easy 44
Hygrophila difformis 051 Easy 45
8000 Aarhus C Tony Swinney
Vallisneria sp. ’Natans’ 055 Easy 62 Denmark Verner Hancke
Vallisneria sp. ’Asiatica’ 056A Easy 63
Printer:
Scanprint a/s
© All right reserved

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. ½ 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 € 5 | £ 4 | DKK 40
Tel.+45 86 22 05 66
Fax.+45 86 22 84 66
e-mail: tropica@tropica.dk
www.tropica.com