Care Guides

Root feeder plants are aquarium plants that mainly take nutrients through their roots from the substrate rather than directly from the water column, so they grow best in nutrient-rich soil or with root tabs. Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Green’ is a classic example, forming low, bushy rosettes of wavy green leaves and adapting well to low to moderate light, though it can “melt” temporarily when first introduced before regrowing. Other root feeders include many Cryptocoryne species, Echinodorus (sword plants), and some Vallisneria, all of which benefit from a nutrient-rich substrate and stable conditions because their growth is more focused on established root systems rather than fast stem extension.

Stem plants are fast-growing aquatic plants that root in the substrate and grow upward in long stems, making them ideal for creating background density and colour in aquariums while also helping absorb excess nutrients from the water. Hygrophila corymbosa is a hardy, large-leaf stem plant that grows quickly and tolerates a wide range of conditions, making it great for beginners and for filling background space. Hygrophila polysperma is even faster growing and very adaptable, often used for nutrient control, though it can become invasive in ideal conditions due to its rapid spread. Ludwigia sp. ‘Mini Super Red’ is a smaller, more compact stem plant valued for its intense red colouring under strong light and good nutrient dosing, adding contrast and highlights in aquascapes. Rotala species (such as Rotala rotundifolia) are popular fine-leaved stem plants that can range from green to pink or red depending on lighting and nutrients, and they create a soft, flowing background effect when planted in groups.

Floating plants grow directly on the water surface and absorb nutrients from the water instead of soil, helping control algae by shading the tank and competing for excess nutrients. Red root floaters (Phyllanthus fluitans) prefer calm water and bright, indirect light, and they develop strong red colouring in good lighting and nutrient-rich conditions, but stay greener in lower light. Salvinia (such as Salvinia minima or Salvinia natans) is a fast-growing floater with small, fuzzy oval leaves that spread quickly into dense mats, making it very effective for nutrient uptake but often requiring regular thinning so it doesn’t completely block light and oxygen exchange.

Aquarium mosses are versatile and easy-to-care-for plants that add a soft natural appearance to aquascapes while providing excellent shelter for shrimp and fry. Popular varieties such as Java Moss and Subwassertang thrive when attached to driftwood, rocks, or hardscape, creating lush textured growth throughout the aquarium. Most mosses grow well in low to medium lighting and adapt easily to a wide range of water conditions, making them ideal for beginner and low-tech planted tanks. With regular trimming, moss can be shaped into carpets, walls, or dense natural features that enhance the depth and detail of any aquascape.

Epiphyte plants are hardy aquarium plants that naturally grow attached to driftwood and rocks rather than planted in substrate. Popular examples include Java Fern, Java Fern Windelov, Anubias, Bucephalandra, and Bolbitis Fern. Their unique growth style makes them perfect for natural aquascapes and beginner-friendly planted tanks. These plants grow best in low to medium lighting and prefer stable water conditions with gentle flow. Most epiphytes are slow growing and easy to maintain, requiring only occasional liquid fertiliser and minimal trimming. To plant epiphytes correctly, attach them to driftwood or rocks using thread or aquarium-safe glue. Avoid burying the rhizome in substrate, as this can cause the plant to rot over time.