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Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | no |
| Plant Growth | fast |
| Temperature Tolerance | 18°C / 64.40°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 25°C / 77.00°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
Hydrothrix gardneri is an aquatic plant endemic to eastern Brazil, favoring stagnant to slow-flowing waters. Belonging to the Pontederiaceae family, it is closely related to Eichhornia and Heteranthera. In its natural habitat, H. gardneri is an annual plant, displaying delicate thread-like or hair-like leaves with an oval cross-section.
Aquarium Suitability
This plant is rarely commercially available but was introduced to the aquarium hobby in 1976. H. gardneri is relatively short-lived in aquarium conditions, best propagated through seeds to maintain a population. It is a fast grower with moderate demands, thriving in soft to moderately hard water and strong light intensity.
Demands and Hardiness
H. gardneri requires temperatures between 23-25 °C (73-77 °F) and can tolerate up to 28 °C (82 °F). It prefers medium to high light, a pH range of 5-7.5, and moderate levels of carbon dioxide, iron, nitrates, phosphates, and potassium. Unsuitable for outdoor use in colder climates, this plant may develop undulate leaves under less favorable conditions.
Aquascaping & Usage
Ideal for background or midground placement in aquariums, a grouping of H. gardneri adds a delicate and decorative touch. Its fine leaves create a contrasting texture against other plants. The plant's lush foliage develops under strong light with ample CO2 and nutrients.
Propagation
H. gardneri can be propagated through seeds or cuttings, which may not prevent the plant from flowering, producing fruit, and eventually dying off. Cultivation from seed is essential due to its short lifespan, contributing to its rarity in the hobby.
Habitat and Distribution
Natively found in eastern Brazil, H. gardneri thrives in various aquatic environments, forming thin stems with short lateral shoots. It reproduces through cleistogamous flowers that self-pollinate, leading to the production of pod-like fruits containing numerous seeds. The plant blooms vibrantly with six yellow petals that fall off after a brief period.