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Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 15°C / 59.00°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 1-18 kh |
| pH Value | 4.5-8 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 x willisii, also known as Cryptocoryne x willisii "lucens," is a versatile aquatic plant that belongs to the genus Cryptocoryne within the Araceae family. It is a hybrid of various Cryptocoryne species, primarily Cryptocoryne parva, C. walkeri, and C. beckettii, native to the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The plant features oblong-ovate-narrow-lanceolate leaves with a uniform, medium green coloration and can grow up to 25cm when emersed and 20cm when submersed. The spathe (pseudopetal) of the plant is rough-tuberculate and often displays dark purple or reddish-brown hues.
Aquarium Suitability
Cryptocoryne x willisii "lucens" is an excellent choice for aquariums, especially nano tanks, as it is readily available commercially and considered easy to cultivate. It is suitable for midground and foreground placement due to its slow growth and dense, narrow-leaved bushy appearance. This plant can even be used as a grass-like ground cover in tanks with ample height.
Demands and Hardiness
The plant's demands include a wide range of water conditions, from low to high light levels, a temperature range of 22-28°C, and a pH of 4.5-8. It thrives in moderate carbon dioxide levels (5-40mg/l) and requires nutrients such as iron (0.01-0.5mg/l) and potassium (5-30mg/l). Cryptocoryne x willisii "lucens" has a slow growth rate and is not suitable for outdoor use in colder climates.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquascaping, Cryptocoryne x willisii "lucens" can be used to create dense, narrow-leaved bushes in the foreground and midground of tanks. Its grass-like lawn appearance adds a unique texture to the aquarium layout, and it complements taller plants well. The plant's rhizomes can grow upright in high-growth tufts, necessitating occasional trimming to maintain its compact form.
Propagation
Propagation of Cryptocoryne x willisii "lucens" is relatively straightforward and can be achieved through underground runners, rhizome division, splitting, and cutting off daughter plants. This plant reproduces similarly to other Cryptocoryne species and can be propagated to expand its presence in the aquarium.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural habitat of Cryptocoryne x willisii "lucens" includes river banks in the vicinity of Kandy city in Sri Lanka's central highlands. It is part of the broader Cryptocoryne x willisii hybrid complex, with variations like Cryptocoryne lucens described by H.C.D. De Wit. The plant's adaptability and aesthetic appeal make it a popular choice among aquarists seeking a versatile and visually striking aquatic plant.