More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | yes |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | medium |
| Temperature Tolerance | 4°C / 39.20°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 4°C / 39.20°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-14 kh |
| pH Value | 5-7.5 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
Stratiotes aloides, commonly known as water soldier or water pineapple, is a large rosulate aquatic plant with rigid leaves that have sharp spikes along the margins. It hibernates submerged at the bottom of water bodies and emerges to the surface when temperatures increase.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered an easy plant to care for, Stratiotes aloides is suitable for aquariums and can also thrive in tropical tanks. It is known to tolerate colder temperatures, making it adaptable to various aquatic environments.
Demands and Hardiness
With medium growth demands, this plant requires medium to high light levels and can benefit from a carbon dioxide (CO2) range of 10-40mg/l. It is capable of withstanding temperatures between 4-30°C and has a tolerance for fluctuations within this range.
Aquascaping & Usage
Stratiotes aloides can be utilized as a semi-emersed plant in open tanks, ideal for the background or midground. It can also float on the water's surface, creating a visually engaging element in aquascape designs.
Propagation
This plant propagates through runners, extending horizontally to develop new plantlets. This method allows for natural expansion and regeneration within aquarium settings.
Habitat and Distribution
Natively found in Europe and Central Asia, Stratiotes aloides thrives in nutrient-rich, warm lowland waters such as oxbow lakes in floodplains. While it can cover entire water surfaces in some regions, it is considered endangered in other parts of Europe.