Hygrophylla Sarawak

Hygrophila Sarawak, scientific name Hygrophila lancea “Sarawak”. The plant is named after the region where it was discovered – the Malaysian state of Sarawak, located in the northeastern part of the island of Kalimantan (Borneo). It grows throughout the island in moist wetlands.

First commercialized in the US under the trade name Hygrophila sp. Sarawak. Later it was exported to Europe, where it was identified as a variety of the already known Hygrophila Araguay.

Outwardly, both plants are identical if they grow in the air. They form erect branching stems of red-brown color and elongated green leaves of a lanceolate shape. When grown under water, plants begin to look strikingly different from each other. Hygrophila Sarawak acquires an upright, but weakly branching stem. The leaves are long, linear, reddish in color. The distance of internodes decreases closer to the top, forming a corolla. Upon reaching the surface of the water, the plant begins to turn into its airy form, to prevent this, regular pruning can be done. The cut parts, when immersed in the ground, give roots and become a new sprout.

Soft, acidic water, high light levels, and nutrient-rich soil are required for normal growth. It is advisable to use special aquarium soil.