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Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | medium |
| Temperature Tolerance | 18°C / 64.40°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 2-12 kh |
| pH Value | 5-8 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 20-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
Hygrophila pinnatifida, known for over 150 years, is an uncommon aquatic plant endemic to India. It thrives in rivulets in the western coastal areas at the foot of the Western Ghats, with documented findings in states such as Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh. It is relatively rare in the hobby, with decorative pinnatilobed leaves that are brown-olive green on top and Burgundy red underneath, resembling some Cryptocoryne species.
Aquarium Suitability
This plant is suitable for aquariums and is frequently available commercially, primarily from aquatic plant nurseries. It grows well under moderate light but benefits from more intense lighting for compact growth. Adequate nutrients and CO2 are recommended. H. pinnatifida can be susceptible to potassium deficiencies, showing symptoms of small holes in older leaves.
Demands and Hardiness
With a moderate growth rate, this plant requires a good nutrient and CO2 supply. It can be cultivated emersed on moist substrates and blooms in daylight conditions, mainly in spring. Suitable for midground and foreground placement in aquariums, it can be planted in small groups for a visually appealing effect.
Aquascaping & Usage
H. pinnatifida is ideal for aquascaping in small groups in the middleground of an aquarium, particularly in front of a calm background. Its unique leaf form and pattern make it stand out effectively. When grown rosulately stout, its growth habit resembles that of a fern. Additionally, it can be planted in the foreground in groups alongside other plants with bright red hues.
Propagation
Propagation of H. pinnatifida is best done using runner-like lateral shoots rather than top shoot cuttings. Plants with sprouted roots or those from emersed cultivation tend to establish faster in aquariums. The growth rate varies depending on light intensity, nutrient supply, and CO2 levels.
Habitat and Distribution
This aquatic plant is native to the western, southern, and northern regions of India, primarily in the Western Ghats. It grows in rivulets and can attach to rocks or driftwood with its roots. H. pinnatifida offers various possibilities for aquascaping, especially due to its ability to attach to hardscapes with its roots.