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Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 18°C / 64.40°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 2-14 kh |
| pH Value | 6-7.5 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 pontederiifolia, a member of the Araceae family and Cryptocoryne genus, is a versatile aquatic plant native to the northernmost region of the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. It is commonly found in freshwater tidal areas where it thrives alongside the nipa palm. This robust species is known for its wide leaves with brownish-light purple coloring and peculiar inflorescence features that distinguish it from closely related species like Cryptocoryne moehlmannii.
Aquarium Suitability
With easy care requirements and adaptability to various water conditions ranging from soft to hard and slightly acidic to neutral, Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia is well-suited for aquarium cultivation. It can thrive under different lighting intensities, from medium-low to high, with the latter resulting in a more compact growth pattern. This plant is an excellent choice for medium to large aquariums, where it can be used in the middle or background as an alternative to Anubias or as a striking solitary plant in medium-sized tanks.
Demands and Hardiness
Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia exhibits slow growth and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures between 22-25°C with a broader tolerance range of 18-28°C. It prefers carbon dioxide levels between 5-40mg/l, carbonate hardness of 2-14, and pH levels from 6-7.5. Additionally, it requires moderate levels of nutrients such as iron (0.01-0.5mg/l), nitrate (10-50mg/l), phosphate (0.1-3mg/l), and potassium (5-30mg/l) for optimal growth.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquascaping, Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia can be used as a background, midground, or specimen plant, offering a bushy appearance when provided with CO2 fertilization and intense lighting. Its wide leaves, some with a slight nubby pattern, make it an attractive addition to medium to large aquariums, plant streets in Dutch aquaria, or as a focal point in natural setups where it contrasts well with dark mosses and grass-like plants.
Propagation
Propagation of Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia can be easily achieved through various methods such as runners, rhizome division, splitting, or cutting off daughter plants. Over time, these propagated plants form attractive groups, enhancing the visual appeal of the aquarium setup.
Habitat and Distribution
Originally limited to the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia has also been introduced to Singapore, where it thrives in swampy areas along forestal rivers. It shares its natural habitat with the nipa palm (Nypa fruticans) and exhibits adaptability to different environmental conditions, making it a sought-after aquatic plant in both trade and aquarium cultivation markets.