Hygrophila pinnatifida (Hygrophila pinnatifida) – Elegant fern-like aquatic plant; attaches to wood or rock, ideal for artistic aquascapes.

$12.95

Quantity: 3 stem bunch

Transform your aquarium into a living work of art with Hygrophila pinnatifida — a stunning aquatic plant admired for its fern-like leaves, rich texture, and unique growth habit. Originating from India, this plant brings an elegant, natural aesthetic to any aquascape. Its earthy green and bronze tones with hints of deep red make it a perfect centerpiece or accent for those seeking a sophisticated, jungle-style layout.

Unlike most stem plants, Hygrophila pinnatifida has a rhizomatous growth form, allowing it to attach directly to driftwood, rocks, or hardscape surfaces, much like an epiphyte. This makes it a favorite among aquascaping enthusiasts who appreciate both beauty and function in their designs.


🌱 Why You’ll Love It

  • Elegant & Unique Texture: The deeply lobed, fern-like leaves add depth, contrast, and movement to your aquascape.

  • Versatile Growth Style: Can grow both rooted in substrate or attached to hardscape, adapting beautifully to your aquascape layout.

  • Rich, Dynamic Colors: Displays a captivating blend of olive green, bronze, and reddish hues — especially vibrant under strong light and with CO₂ supplementation.

  • Compact & Controlled Growth: Ideal for midground and background placement, providing a natural transition between plant layers.

  • Low Maintenance Yet Striking: Once established, it’s hardy and rewarding, offering premium visual appeal with moderate care needs.


🌊 Growing & Care Tips

  • Light Requirements: Medium to high light intensity enhances leaf color and compact growth. Under low light, leaves may elongate and lose some of their bronze hues.

  • CO₂ & Fertilization: CO₂ injection is recommended for optimal color, health, and growth rate. A balanced fertilizer containing iron and micronutrients maintains lush foliage.

  • Water Conditions:

    • Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)

    • pH: 6.0–7.5

    • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

  • Growth Rate: Moderate — trim side shoots to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.

  • Propagation: Easily propagated through cuttings or side shoots; reattach or replant as desired.


🪵 Aquascaping Uses

Hygrophila pinnatifida is one of the most visually striking plants for aquascaping. Its ability to attach to hardscape surfaces makes it ideal for:

  • Natural riverbank-style layouts

  • Iwagumi or driftwood-centered designs

  • Jungle or biotope aquariums

Attach it to driftwood or lava rock using fishing line, thread, or aquarium glue. Over time, it anchors itself securely, producing roots that cling naturally to surfaces. Its upright, arching leaves flow beautifully with water currents, adding a sense of motion and realism.


🦐 Ideal for Shrimp & Fish Tanks

This plant’s intricate leaf structure and surface texture make it perfect for shrimp tanks. Shrimp enjoy grazing on the biofilm that naturally accumulates on its leaves, while small fish use it for cover and protection. Its dense midground placement enhances the micro-ecosystem of your tank by providing both aesthetic and functional benefits.


🌾 Key Highlights

  • Scientific Name: Hygrophila pinnatifida

  • Origin: India

  • Growth Form: Rhizomatous stem plant

  • Placement: Midground, attached to hardscape, or background

  • Maintenance Level: Moderate

  • Light Requirement: Medium to high

  • CO₂ Requirement: Recommended for best results

  • Tank Size: Suitable for nano to large aquariums


🌟 Why Choose Hygrophila pinnatifida

Few aquatic plants combine structure, color, and artistic flexibility like Hygrophila pinnatifida. Its flowing form, versatile growth style, and ability to attach to various surfaces make it a must-have for aquascapers who value both natural beauty and design versatility.

Whether you’re crafting a lush jungle scene, a minimalist aquascape, or a nature-style tank, this plant adds sophistication, balance, and dimension — creating a stunning underwater world that feels alive and intentional.

Bring your aquascape to life with Hygrophila pinnatifida — the elegant, fern-like gem that turns any aquarium into living art. 🌿💧