13 Fast-Growing Aquarium Plants
Embark on a captivating journey as we discover the fastest growing aquarium plants that’ll transform your aquatic paradise. Dive in to learn about their stunning beauty, unique properties, and how they’ll enrich your underwater oasis!
Duckweed (Lemna minor)
Duckweed, scientifically known as Lemna minor, is a small floating plant that thrives in highly nutrient-rich water. Its tiny size and rapid growth rate make it a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts who want to create a lush environment for their fish.
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Temperature Range: 15-30°C (59-86°F)
- Light Requirements: Low to high
- Nutrient Requirements: High
- Propagation Method: Division
- Substrate: None (floating plant)
Duckweed is a low-maintenance plant that can adapt to various light conditions but prefers slightly warmer water. Its ability to absorb excess nutrients helps maintain a healthy water balance for your aquatic friends.
However, be cautious as it can potentially block out light for other plants if not managed properly. Overall, it’s a great addition to any aquarium, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and providing shelter for small aquatic organisms.
Brazilian Waterweeds (Elodea Densa)
Brazilian Waterweeds, also known as Egeria or Elodea Densa, are submerged aquatic plants with a luscious, bushy appearance. These versatile plants are excellent oxygenators and provide shelter for aquatic life, making them a popular choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Temperature Range: 10-25°C (50-77°F)
- Light Requirements: Moderate to high
- Nutrient Requirements: Moderate
- Propagation Method: Cutting
- Substrate: Gravel or sand
These hardy plants can quickly adapt to different water temperatures while thriving under various lighting conditions. To propagate, simply cut a stem and anchor it in the substrate, ensuring that the cut end is buried.
Keep in mind that Brazilian Waterweeds are voracious growers, and regular trimming is necessary to prevent overcrowding. Overall, these stunning plants will greatly enhance the aesthetics and health of your aquatic haven.
Ambulia (Limnophila indica)
Ambulia, or Limnophila indica, is a beautiful aquatic plant with delicate, feather-like leaves that sway gracefully in the water. Hailing from Southeast Asia, it creates a serene, jungle-like atmosphere for your aquarium, offering refuge for fish and invertebrates.
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Temperature Range: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
- Light Requirements: Moderate to high
- Nutrient Requirements: Moderate
- Propagation Method: Cutting
- Substrate: Fine to medium-grain gravel
Ambulia is a hardy plant that can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, making it suitable for both novices and experts. It requires moderate to intense lighting to maintain its vibrant coloration and ensure rapid growth.
To propagate, simply snip a stem cutting with healthy leaves and plant it in the substrate. Overall, Ambulia is an elegant and undemanding addition to your aquatic sanctuary, offering both aesthetic appeal and a safe haven for your aquatic inhabitants.
Indian Swampweed (Hygrophila Polysperma)
Indian Swampweed, or Hygrophila Polysperma, is a fast-growing and versatile aquatic plant favored by both beginners and advanced aquarists. Originating from Indian swamps and rivers, its vibrant green leaves and sturdy stems effortlessly enhance your aquarium’s aesthetics.
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Temperature Range: 20-28°C (68-82°F)
- Light Requirements: Low to high
- Nutrient Requirements: Low to moderate
- Propagation Method: Cutting
- Substrate: Fine to medium-grain gravel
This resilient plant’s ability to thrive in various lighting and nutrient conditions makes it an attractive choice for building a lush underwater oasis. However, its rapid growth requires regular pruning so that it does not dominate your aquarium.
To propagate, simply trim a stem, remove the lower leaves, and plant it in the substrate. With its easy-going nature, Indian Swampweed adds a touch of verdant beauty and provides essential shelter for your aquatic life.
Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum)
Hornwort, commonly known as Ceratophyllum demersum, is a popular, fast-growing aquatic plant known for its feathery, light-green foliage. Its versatility, oxygenating properties, and ability to provide shelter make it a valuable addition to any aquarium.
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Temperature Range: 15-30°C (59-86°F)
- Light Requirements: Low to high
- Nutrient Requirements: Low to moderate
- Propagation Method: Cutting
- Substrate: None (floating or weighted)
Hornwort can thrive either as a floating plant or with its base weighted down, allowing it to adapt to a wide range of tank setups. It can tolerate various lighting conditions and effectively absorbs excess nutrients, contributing to a healthier water environment.
To propagate, simply cut a stem, remove the lower leaves, and float it in the water or secure it with a weight. Hornwort’s easy upkeep and rapid growth make it an ideal choice for creating a thriving aquatic paradise.
Water Wisteria (Hygrophila difformis)
Water Wisteria, or Hygrophila difformis, is a striking aquatic plant boasting uniquely shaped leaves that create a stunning underwater landscape. Its fast growth rate and ease of care make it a popular choice for both novice and experienced aquarium enthusiasts.
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Temperature Range: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
- Light Requirements: Moderate to high
- Nutrient Requirements: Moderate
- Propagation Method: Cutting
- Substrate: Fine to medium-grain gravel
Water Wisteria thrives in warm water with sufficient lighting and nutrients. To maintain its appearance, trim back longer stems and remove any unhealthy leaves. Propagation is straightforward – simply take a healthy stem cutting and plant it in the substrate, ensuring it is well-anchored.
Water Wisteria not only adds aesthetic appeal to your aquatic environment but also provides essential shelter for fish and invertebrates. Its ease of care and fast growth rate make it a rewarding addition to any aquarium.
Amazon Sword (Echinodorus Bleheri)
Amazon Sword, or Echinodorus Bleheri, is an eye-catching aquatic plant with large, bold leaves that create a visually stunning underwater environment. Its hardiness and compatibility with various aquarium setups make it a favorite among aquarists.
- Care Level: Easy to moderate
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
- Temperature Range: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
- Light Requirements: Moderate
- Nutrient Requirements: Moderate
- Propagation Method: Side shoots and runners
- Substrate: Nutrient-rich gravel or sand
These majestic plants require a nutrient-rich substrate to ensure healthy growth, although they can tolerate a wide range of water conditions. Regularly trim dying leaves and encourage bushier growth by pinching back the plant.
Amazon Sword reproduces by producing side shoots and runners, which can easily be separated from the parent plant and replanted in the substrate. Besides its visual impact, the Amazon Sword also provides excellent shelter for your aquatic life, earning its place as a centerpiece in your underwater haven.
Amazon Frogbit (Limnobium laevigatum)
Amazon Frogbit, or Limnobium laevigatum, is a fascinating floating plant that adds a touch of natural beauty to any aquarium. Its lily pad-like leaves provide an excellent refuge for fish, invertebrates, and even newborn fry, making it a popular addition to diverse aquatic habitats.
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Temperature Range: 18-30°C (64-86°F)
- Light Requirements: Moderate to high
- Nutrient Requirements: Moderate
- Propagation Method: Division
- Substrate: None (floating plant)
Amazon Frogbit thrives in fairly warm aquatic environments but requires access to light for the best growth. Regular trimming and thinning are essential to prevent tangles and overcrowding. Propagation is straightforward – simply separate mature plants and allow them to float in the water.
This low-maintenance plant not only adds an attractive touch to the surface of your aquarium, but it also serves as a natural water filter, helping to maintain a stable and healthy ecosystem for your aquatic friends.
Creeping Primrose-Willow (Ludwigia Repens)
Creeping Primrose-Willow, or Ludwigia Repens, is a vibrant aquatic plant boasting stunning red and green leaves that add a pop of color to any aquarium. Its attractive appearance and fast growth rate make it a highly sought-after plant among aquarists.
- Care Level: Easy to moderate
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Temperature Range: 20-28°C (68-82°F)
- Light Requirements: Moderate to high
- Nutrient Requirements: Moderate
- Propagation Method: Cutting
- Substrate: Fine to medium-grain gravel
To ensure optimal growth and rich coloration, provide Creeping Primrose-Willow with ample lighting and a nutrient-rich substrate. Regular pruning will encourage bushier growth and maintain the plant’s aesthetics. To propagate, simply snip a stem with healthy leaves and replant it in the substrate.
Creeping Primrose-Willow’s beauty and versatility make it an excellent choice for adding depth, texture, and color to your underwater landscape while creating a comfortable shelter for your aquatic inhabitants.
Eelgrass (Vallisneria)
Eelgrass, commonly known as Vallisneria, is a popular choice for aquarists due to its elegant, ribbon-like leaves that instantly transform an aquarium into a captivating underwater paradise. This versatile plant adapts well to various water conditions and adds a dynamic touch to your aquatic environment.
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
- Temperature Range: 15-30°C (59-86°F)
- Light Requirements: Low to moderate
- Nutrient Requirements: Low to moderate
- Propagation Method: Runners
- Substrate: Fine to medium-grain gravel
Eelgrass thrives in a wide temperature range and various lighting conditions, making it perfect for beginner and experienced aquarists alike. It propagates via runners, which can be easily separated and replanted in the substrate.
Regular maintenance, such as trimming off dead leaves, helps keep the plant looking its best. Eelgrass not only enhances the aesthetics of your aquarium but also furnishes a comfortable hideout for aquatic creatures, ensuring a lively and well-balanced underwater ecosystem.
Arrowhead (Sagittaria)
Arrowhead, also known as Sagittaria, is a unique aquatic plant characterized by its distinctive arrow-shaped leaves that bring a touch of subtle beauty to any aquarium. It serves as both an eye-catching centerpiece and a vital refuge for smaller aquatic life.
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
- Temperature Range: 18-28°C (64-82°F)
- Light Requirements: Moderate
- Nutrient Requirements: Moderate
- Propagation Method: Runners
- Substrate: Fine to medium-grain gravel
This hardy plant adapts well to various water conditions, making it a beginner-friendly choice. Adequate lighting along with a nutrient-rich substrate ensures healthy and robust growth. Arrowhead reproduces by producing runners, which can be easily separated and replanted into the substrate.
Regular maintenance, such as removing dead leaves, is key to maintaining its aesthetic appeal. With its unique form and easy care requirements, Arrowhead is a prominent addition to any underwater landscape, bringing charm and utility to your aquatic haven.
Ruffled Aponogeton (Aponogeton Crispus)
Ruffled Aponogeton, or Aponogeton Crispus, is a fascinating aquatic plant known for its delicate, wavy-edged leaves that create an enchanting aquatic scenery. This resilient plant is an excellent choice for those seeking both beauty and low-maintenance options for their aquarium.
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
- Temperature Range: 20-28°C (68-82°F)
- Light Requirements: Low to moderate
- Nutrient Requirements: Low to moderate
- Propagation Method: Seeds, or by splitting the bulb
- Substrate: Fine to medium-grain gravel
Ruffled Aponogeton thrives in a variety of water conditions and lighting levels, making it suitable for a broad range of aquarium setups. To propagate, simply collect seeds from the flower or split the bulb at its base.
Although it requires minimal care, occasional trimming of dying leaves helps preserve the plant’s aesthetics. Ruffled Aponogeton not only enhances the visual appeal of your underwater sanctuary but also provides essential shelter for aquatic inhabitants, making it a perfect combination of style and functionality.
Brazilian Pennywort (Hydrocotyle leucocephala)
Brazilian Pennywort, or Hydrocotyle leucocephala, is an exquisite aquatic plant with vibrant green, round leaves that add a charming touch to any aquarium. Its versatility and fast growth rate make it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Temperature Range: 20-28°C (68-82°F)
- Light Requirements: Low to moderate
- Nutrient Requirements: Low
- Propagation Method: Cutting
- Substrate: Fine to medium-grain gravel
This adaptable plant can grow either rooted in the substrate or floating on the water’s surface, providing additional interest to your aquatic environment. It thrives in a range of lighting conditions and water temperatures, requiring only minimal care.
To propagate, simply trim a stem cutting with healthy leaves and anchor it in the substrate or let it float. Brazilian Pennywort not only enhances your aquarium’s aesthetics but also provides shelter for smaller fish and invertebrates, making it a perfect blend of beauty and utility in your underwater world.
Factors that Affect the Growth Rate of Moss
There are several factors that play a crucial role in determining the growth rate of moss in an aquarium. It’s important to understand these factors to provide optimal conditions for the moss and enjoy its lush, green appearance.
- Lighting: Good lighting is essential for the growth of moss in your aquarium. Different moss species have different light requirements, but in general, moderate to high light levels will promote healthy, vigorous growth.
- Nutrients: Moss obtains nutrients from the water column to support its growth. Adequate levels of essential nutrients, like nitrates, phosphates, and trace elements, will greatly impact the growth rate of moss. It’s crucial to maintain a balanced nutrient level in the tank for the moss to thrive.
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2): As with other plants, moss requires carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. Providing additional CO2 in the aquarium can considerably boost the growth of moss. However, it’s necessary to closely monitor the CO2 levels, as too much can be harmful to fish and other aquatic life.
- Water Temperature: The growth rate of moss is also affected by the water temperature of your aquarium. Most moss species prefer temperatures in the range of 68°F – 78°F (20°C – 26°C). Maintaining consistent water temperature within the preferred range will encourage healthy growth.
- Water Movement: Moss benefits from controlled water movement, which helps in nutrient uptake and gas exchange. Very strong water currents can negatively affect its growth, so it’s vital to find the right balance between, stagnant water and strong currents.
- Tank Maintenance: Regularly cleaning your aquarium and performing water changes can have a significant impact on the growth rate of the moss. A well-maintained aquarium will provide a healthier environment for both moss and fish, contributing to overall growth and success.
Conclusion
Incorporating these fast-growing aquarium plants can effortlessly turn your aquatic sanctuary into a thriving, dazzling underwater paradise. Consider your specific tank conditions and inhabitants to make the best choices, and enjoy watching your underwater garden flourish! Feel free to leave a comment sharing your experience.
