Lemongrass “Compact”

Lemongrass “Compact” or Hygrophila magnolia vine “Compact”, scientific name Hygrophila corymbosa “Compact”. It is a variety of Hygrophila corymbose. It is easy to grow, does not require separate maintenance and is widely available for purchase. It can be found in many pet stores or ordered online.

The plant has a very short stem, leaves are located close to each other, petioles are practically absent. Numerous side shoots enhance the compact appearance. It can grow in a humid environment of greenhouses, and in a state immersed in water. In the first case, the leaves are dark brownish-green in color. When placed in an aquatic environment, they gradually become light green with a silvery lower surface.

The growth rate and appearance is determined by the degree of illumination of the aquarium and the presence of nutrient soil. If traditional substrates of sand and/or fine gravel are used and fish waste is used as a top dressing, then it is recommended to set a moderate level of lighting in order to moderate the growth rate somewhat.

In bright light, the growth rate increases, Lemongrass “Compact” begins to need a large amount of nutrients to gain plant mass. You will need a special aquarium soil rich in trace elements (nitrates, phosphates, potassium, iron, etc.) and additional introduction of carbon dioxide during the daytime, when photosynthesis processes take place.