Description
This stem plant is delivered from the Netherlands as "Eriocaulon species" and resembles a Hygrophila. Of course, it has nothing to do with Eriocaulon. We received the information that it is probably Adenostemma caffrum from tropical Africa. Adenostemma species belong to the Composites (Asteraceae family) and are partly wetland plants. They develop white, tassel-like flower heads in ramified inflorescences. It seems that the genus Adenostemma is still unknown in the aquarium hobby.
The delivered emersed plant is about 25-40 cm high and may become taller. It has a strong, red-brown stem and narrowly lanceolate, glossy, dark green, about 14-19 cm long leaves.
We have noticed that the plant also grows submerged, strong lighting, CO2 addition and good nutrient supply provided. It grows rather slowly. Its submerged form has thinner, upright stems and narrower leaves than its terrestrial form. Adenostemma sp. can be planted as a group in the background, similar to a Hygrophila.
In any case, this plant grows well as an emersed plant in paludariums and topless aquariums, standing in shallow water. It forms a decorative bush that resembles a shrubby willow with its narrow, partly hanging foliage. Trimming of the shoots promotes their ramification.
Characteristic
Also labeled as "Eriocaulon species"
Hygrophila-like plant with glossy foliage
Recommendable for paludariums and topless aquariums
Category
Middle Ground
Carbon Dioxide
need