Hygrophila corymbosa

About this plant

Hygrophila corymbosa, also known by the older name Nomaphila corymbosa or Temple Plant, is a robust Asian stem plant with broad bright-green leaves. It is one of the easier choices for a new planted aquarium because it grows quickly under low to medium light and does not require injected carbon dioxide. Aquarium stems commonly reach about 20 to 30 cm after establishment and can grow taller if they are not pruned. Plant individual stems with space between them so the large leaves do not shade one another. Cut the top above a node when the plant approaches the surface and replant the healthy shoot; the remaining base normally develops several side branches and becomes bushier. Regular fertilisation prevents pale new growth, while root tabs are helpful in inert substrates. Hygrophila corymbosa also adapts readily to emersed growth. Its speed, large leaves and forgiving care make it useful as a midground or background plant and as temporary nutrient competition during aquarium start-up.