Hygrophila difformis

Family : Acanthaceae

PlantFreshwaterstem plant

Easy plant with highly dissected leaves, changes shape depending on conditions, very decorative.

Hygrophila difformis — photo 1 sur 4 — en:User:Tsunamicarlos · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain1 / 4

Popularity

Stem plant

fast growing, needs trimming

Availability

Common in shops

Shop availability

IUCN Status

Least Concern

Biotope

Southeast Asia

Rivières et forêts inondées d'Indonésie, Malaisie, Thaïlande.

Description

Hygrophila difformis is a stem plant that can reach 30 cm in height. Its leaves are highly variable: submerged, they are deeply dissected, resembling feathers; emersed, they are oval and entire. This plasticity gives it its name. It grows quickly and forms dense bushes. It is highly valued for its unique appearance. It can be used as a midground or background plant. Growth is enhanced by good lighting.

Habitat

Region :

Marshes, rice paddies, riverbanks

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature22–28 °C

pH6–7.5

GH2–15 °dGH

KH2–10 °dKH

NO₃

≤ 25 mg/L

PO₄

≤ 2 mg/L

CO₂

≤ 20 mg/L

Light

Medium

Care

Difficulty

2/5

Diet

Photosynthetic

Min. tank

20 L

Min. group

Adult size

30 cm

Lifespan

3 years

Temperament

Peaceful

Propagation

stem cuttings

Care notes

Medium lighting (0.5-0.8 W/L) is sufficient, but stronger light promotes more dissected leaves. CO2 is not mandatory but speeds up growth. Temperature 22-28 °C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 2-15 °d. It tolerates slightly hard water. Nitrates can reach 25 mg/L. Regular pruning keeps it compact. Propagates by cuttings. Minimum tank volume 20 L. Compatible with all peaceful fish.

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