Hygrophila heterophylla

Hygrophila difformis, scientific name Hygrophila difformis. From Southeast Asia, where it grows in swamps. A fairly popular plant, it has been used in aquariums for several decades, and in Asia it is used in traditional medicine.

It is able to grow in an underwater and above-water position, depending on which leaves that are completely different from each other are formed. Under water in aquariums it looks like a small bush with wide carved leaves of bright green color. Above water, for example, in paludariums, a massive stem is formed, leaves are not divided with jagged edges, from the axils of which grow blue-violet flowers with sticky glandular hairs and a strong scent.

There are many aquarium plants that are much easier to care for than Hygrophila heterophylla, however, it cannot be attributed to the “capricious” species. Prefers bright light and is sensitive to iron content in the soil. Water hardness and pH level do not matter much. The absence of additional carbon dioxide supply is not critical.

Reproduction is by simple pruning. After separating the upper part of the plant, it can be planted in the ground and after a while the roots will appear. In turn, the pruned Hygrophila grows many new shoots, which can also be planted as separate plants.