Aquarium plant

Vallisneria spiralis

Vallisneria spiralis L.

BackgroundRosette plant

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Plant overview

For background planting, Vallisneria spiralis grows as a rosette plant. Its profile combines medium light, none CO₂.

Vallisneria spiralis suits water with temperature 18–28 °C, pH 5–9, KH 2–21 °dKH, CO₂ –2 mg/L.

Planting & care

PlacementBackground
GrowthRosette plant
LightMedium
CO2None

Water conditions

Temperature: 18–28 °C
pH: 5–9
Carbonate hardness: 2–21 °dKH
CO₂ (mg/L): –2 mg/L

Growth & placement

Growth rate: Fast
Width: 1–2 cm
Propagation: Runners
Color: green

Taxonomy

Major group: Angiosperms
Family: Hydrocharitaceae
Genus: Vallisneria
Botanical name: Vallisneria spiralis L.

About this plant

Vallisneria spiralis is a fast-growing submerged rosette plant with narrow ribbon-like leaves and a wide natural range from Europe through Asia to southern Africa. Despite the name, 'spiralis' refers to the coiling female flower stalk rather than consistently twisted leaves. Aquarium leaves are roughly 0.8 to 1.5 cm wide and can reach up to about 100 cm, so the plant is best used in the background of medium or large tanks. It spreads readily through runners, and unwanted daughter rosettes can be separated once they have rooted. Medium to strong light is suitable, but injected carbon dioxide is not required. The species tolerates a broad range of pH and water hardness, making it useful for beginner and hard-water aquariums. Avoid cutting individual leaves across the middle; remove old leaves at the base instead. Regular runner control prevents the colony from occupying the entire substrate.