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Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | yes |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | very slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 4°C / 39.20°F - 27°C / 80.60°F |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 2-14 kh |
| pH Value | 6-7.5 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 10-40mg/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
Water cabbage, scientifically known as Rorippa aquatica, is a small aquatic plant that can be found in the central and southern regions of the USA. It typically thrives in the mud along the edges and in the shallow waters of springs, lakes, bogs, ditches, and rivulets. This plant is known for its preference for clean, slow-flowing waters and is considered rather rare in its natural habitat. R. aquatica has a distinctive appearance, with white flowers setting it apart from other Rorippa species like Rorippa amphibia.
Aquarium Suitability
Water cabbage, or Rorippa aquatica, is suitable for aquariums due to its adaptation to aquatic environments. It is often cultivated as an aquarium plant and is recognized for its potential to serve as a foreground plant. The plant's slow growth rate makes it ideal for maintaining a well-balanced aquatic ecosystem. When considering its suitability for aquariums, the demands and hardiness of R. aquatica are crucial factors to take into account.
Demands and Hardiness
Rorippa aquatica is not very demanding in terms of care requirements but does grow exceptionally slowly even under optimal conditions. It thrives in aquarium setups with relatively low temperatures ranging from 20-25°C, moderate to high light levels, and a nutrient-rich substrate. While it can withstand colder temperatures, caution is advised when exposing it to extreme cold. The plant mainly reproduces through adventitious sprouts on broken leaves that float on the water's surface.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquascaping, water cabbage is commonly used as a foreground or group plant to add an attractive visual element to the aquarium. With its characteristic rosettes or upright stems and alternate leaves, R. aquatica can enhance the aesthetic appeal of aquatic landscapes. Its versatility in aquarium setups makes it a popular choice among aquarists looking to create a well-balanced and visually appealing underwater environment.
Propagation
Propagation of Rorippa aquatica primarily occurs through proliferating leaves and cuttings. The plant forms adventitious sprouts on the stem of broken leaves, facilitating its propagation process. By allowing these floating leaves to remain at the water's surface, aquarists can encourage the growth and spread of water cabbage within the aquarium environment.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat, water cabbage can be found in the central and southern parts of the USA, where it thrives in various aquatic ecosystems, including springs, lakes, bogs, ditches, and rivulets. Due to its preference for specific environmental conditions, R. aquatica is considered a relatively rare plant in the wild. Its distribution is limited to regions where clean, slow-flowing waters are present, reflecting its adaptation to specific habitats within the central and southern USA.