6 Easy Aquatic Plants

Aquatic plants are an essential part of any aquarium. They not only add beauty to the aquarium but also provide a natural environment for shrimp, fish, fry, and snails to thrive in. However, finding the right aquatic plants can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. The world of aquatic plants can be overwhelming, with so many different species to choose from. 

That's why we're here to help you with the basics. 

In this blog post, we'll introduce you to six easy-to-maintain, low-light aquatic plants that are guaranteed to spruce up your aquarium without adding to your to-do list. 

Anubias Nana Petite:

Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. nana petite

Lighting Requirements: Low

The Anubias Nana Petite or Anubias barteri var. nana petite, is a small and compact variant of the Anubias family, revered for its hardiness and ease of care. Its dark green, leathery leaves make it an excellent choice for low-light aquariums. This plant thrives when attached to driftwood or rocks, adding a touch of lush greenery to the aquascape while providing hiding spots for small fish or fry.

Java Fern:

Scientific Name: Leptochilus Pteropus (also called Microsorum Pteropus)

Lighting Requirements: Low to medium 

The Java Fern, or the Leptochilus pteropus thrives in various water conditions, it can grow both submerged and emerged, making it adaptable to different aquarium setups. They’re hardy and can grow in low-light environments. It propagates easily by cutting the rhizome, horizontal shoots, or plantlets growing from the underside of the leaves. It received its name from the Indonesian island of Java due to its presence in that region.

Banana Plant: 

Scientific Name: Nymphoides Aquatica

Lighting requirements: Low 

The Banana Plant, or Nymphoides aquatica, is unique as it resembles a bushel of bananas in its appearance with tubers that store its nutrients and anchor the plant. A pro tip with the banana plant is not to bury it deep in the substrate, instead set it on top and allow it to root itself. 

Amazon Sword: 

Scientific Name: Echinodorus grisebachii

Lighting Requirements: Low 

The Amazon Sword, or Echinodorus, is a striking and robust plant with long, lance-shaped leaves that add a dramatic touch to freshwater aquariums. Known for its vigorous growth, it requires moderate to high lighting and nutrient-rich substrate for optimal development. This plant serves as an excellent background or centerpiece, contributing to a lush, natural-looking aquatic habitat.

Dwarf Lily: 

Scientific Name: Nymphaea Stellata

Lighting Requirements: Moderate

The Dwarf Lily is a compact aquatic plant characterized by its striking red or green leaves that grow from a bulb. With proper care, it produces lovely lily pads on the water's surface, adding surface coverage and shelter for aquatic inhabitants. It thrives in moderate to high lighting conditions and can become a visually appealing focal point in smaller aquariums.

Crypt Wendtii Red:

Scientific Name: Cryptocoryne wendtii , sp. Red.

Lighting Requirements: Low to moderate 

The Red Wendtii, a variation of the Cryptocoryne family, is prized for its vibrant reddish-brown leaves. Adaptable to various water conditions, it showcases intense coloration when provided with moderate lighting and nutrient-rich substrate. This plant is versatile, suitable for midground or background placement, and adds depth and color contrast to aquascapes.