Cryptocorina care

Cryptocoryne parva, scientific name Cryptocoryne parva. Comes from Southeast Asia. The homeland of this species is the central highlands of the island of Sri Lanka, where it grows in dense clusters along the banks of rivers. Not the most common species in the aquarium trade, largely due to very slow growth even in favorable conditions and increased maintenance requirements. Previously marketed under the name Cryptocoryne nevillii, however, as recent studies have shown, the latter is an independent species and has never been cultivated for aquarium purposes.

This is the smallest Cryptocoryne, outwardly resembling some varieties of Cryptocoryne Willis (Cryptocoryne willisii). They form a miniature bush from several green leaves of an elongated lanceolate shape, collected in a rosette. Propagated by lateral shoots growing from the base of the rosette.

As already noted, the growth rate is very slow, even if the plant is in ideal conditions for itself. Unlike many other related species, Cryptocoryne parva prefers high light, needs additional carbon dioxide and nutrient soil. Particularly sensitive to lack of iron and potassium, which manifests itself in the loss of green color and the appearance of a hole in the leaves.

Due to its modest size, it is perfect for the foreground when decorating. However, it is problematic to form a green “lawn” or “carpet” with it, all because of the low growth rate and the formation of new shoots.