Madagascar lace plant
Aponogeton madagascariensis
Aponogeton madagascariensis has an elongated bulb from which petiolate submerged leaves emerge. The leaves are oval to lanceolate, with a very visible network of veins giving a lace-like appearance. They are 20-50 cm long and 5-10 cm wide. The plant produces an emergent spike inflorescence with small white flowers. It goes dormant after flowering. In aquariums, it requires soft, acidic water. Growth is seasonal. Propagation is by seeds or bulb division.
Recommended parameters
| Parameter | Recommended range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 22–28 |
| pH | 5.5–7 |
| GH | 1–8 |
| KH | 1–4 |
| NO₃ | ≤ 20 |
| PO₄ | ≤ 2 |
Care
Care notes
A moderately difficult plant, it requires soft water (GH <8, KH <4) and acidic pH (5.5-7.0). Temperature 22-28 °C. Moderate to intense lighting is recommended. CO₂ supplementation is beneficial. Minimum tank volume 80 liters. Avoid high nitrates (>20 mg/L). A rest period of 2-3 months at 15-18 °C is necessary after flowering. Propagation by seeds or bulb division. Beware of algae on delicate leaves.