Description
Cryptocoryne pygmaea is one of the few water trumpet species that are native to the Philippines. It occurs on the islands Palawan, Busuanga and in the western part of Mindanao. There it grows in and on the banks of rivers and streams. This species is quite variable, with forms that reach different sizes. It resembles forms of Cryptocoryne wendtii. Longer ago it was occasionally available in trade, but today it is a rarity. Cryptocoryne pygmaea has nothing to do with Cryptocoryne "pigmea" that is a C. × willisii selection. Grown under water, it may reach a height of about 25 cm. The emersed form stays considerably smaller.
Medium lighting and a nutrient-rich bottom are recommendable. Cryptocoryne pygmaea also grows in medium hard water. As most Cryptocoryne, it propagates by underground runners.
The Dwarf Water Trumpet can be used as the Crypts from the wendtii / beckettii group. It looks well as a group in the aquarium midground.
Characteristic
Rare Cryptocoryne from the Philippines
Small to medium-sized
Not very demanding
Hardly in trade elsewhere
Category
Rare Plants
