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Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | medium |
| Temperature Tolerance | 8°C / 46.40°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 5-21 kh |
| pH Value | 6-9 ph |
| Light | low-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 5-40mg/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
Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae, a member of the Araceae family, is an aquatic plant commonly found in rivers and rivulets in southern Thailand. The plant forms dense populations with bandlike leaves that float in the current, exhibiting a unique hammered look on its bullous leaves. This variety can grow over 50 cm in height, with leaf width varying from 1.5 to 4 cm and colors ranging from green to a attractive bronze hue. Flower stalks typically form on semi-emersed plants in shallow circulating water, with spathe possessing a distinct pattern of purple lines and dots on an off-white ground.
Aquarium Suitability
Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae is a highly adaptable and easy-to-cultivate plant that is popular in the aquarium hobby. It thrives under medium to high light conditions, with the distinctive knobbly pattern on its leaves becoming more pronounced with sufficient light. While the addition of CO2 can enhance growth, it is not essential for this plant. The var. balansae variety prefers hard water and thrives when provided with ample nutrients like nitrate, phosphate, and iron. Stable conditions are crucial for its growth, as sudden environmental changes may lead to Crypt melt.
Demands and Hardiness
The demands for Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae include a pH range of 6-9, temperature tolerance between 8-30°C, and a preference for carbonate hardness between 5-21. As a versatile plant, it can be used in various positions within an aquarium, suitable for both background and midground placements. It serves as a striking specimen plant, adding height and contrast to aquascapes.
Aquascaping & Usage
Balansa's water trumpet is ideal for the background of tanks or very high aquaria due to its potential height of over 50 cm. In Dutch aquariums, a well-groomed cluster of this plant can serve as a solitary eyecatcher. It also complements nature aquariums well, especially when placed alongside horizontally oriented driftwood or rock formations, creating a lush, visually appealing environment for fish.
Propagation
Propagation of Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae can be achieved through various methods, including runners, rhizome division, splitting, and cutting off daughter plants. Old, well-established populations within substrates can reproduce quickly through runners, necessitating regular maintenance to prevent overgrowth.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural habitat of Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae consists of rivers and rivulets in southern Thailand, particularly in areas with limestone rocks. The plant thrives in hard water rich in calcium, with established populations exhibiting rapid reproduction through runners. In outdoor ponds during summer months, this Cryptocoryne can be kept, preferably planted in containers to control its spread beyond intended areas.