Description
This narrow-leaf, undemanding Hygrophila is variously labeled by different aquarium plant nurseries as "Nomaphila stricta", "Hygrophila angustifolia Rubra", also falsely as "Hygrophila guanensis" oder "H. guyanensis". It is a form of Hygrophila corymbosa whose emersed leaves are lanceolate with red-brown tones. Planted under water, it develops narrower, partly almost strap-shaped, light to medium green, to about 19 cm long leaves. This stem plant grows relatively fast.
Hygrophila corymbosa "Stricta" manages with medium lighting and hard water, however a good nutrient supply is beneficial. Especially potassium deficiency leads to perforated older leaves in Hygrophilas. This stem plant is easily propagated by cuttings.
This quite large, light green stem plant looks best as a group in the midground to background of larger aquariums, for example for "plant streets" in Dutch style aquariums. It is also especially suited for Asia-themed stream or river biotope tanks. Its foliage, swaying in the current, has a very natural appearance. It can also be used as a half-emersed plant in open tanks where its nice purple flowers can be expected.
Characteristic
Lanceolate leaves with red-brown tones
Upright habit
Fast growing
Very hardy and undemanding
Easily flowering in emersed culture
Category
Background
