Phyllanthus fluitans - A floating plant with red highlights
Phyllanthus fluitans , also known as Red Root Floater , is a floating plant native to South America. It is particularly popular for its heart-shaped leaves , which take on a reddish hue under intense lighting . Easy to maintain, it grows quickly and creates a spectacular surface effect while providing ideal shade for fish such as bettas. Its red roots and white flowers add a natural and original touch to any aquarium.
Unique decorative effect: Red foliage under strong light.
Fish Hideouts: Provides shelter for bettas and shrimp.
Phyllanthus fluitans - A floating plant with red highlights
Unique decorative effect: Red foliage under strong light.
Fish Hideouts: Provides shelter for bettas and shrimp.
Easy to maintain: Low light and CO2 requirements.
A floating plant ideal for all aquariums
Phyllanthus fluitans is a floating plant that adds a touch of originality to the water's surface. It is distinguished by its rounded, hydrophobic leaves that form small air pockets, allowing it to float easily. The more intense the lighting, the more its leaves take on a reddish hue, making it particularly attractive.
Its red roots cascade underwater, providing a perfect refuge for surface-dwelling fish and invertebrates. This plant is ideal for betta splendens and other species that thrive in subdued light.
An ally against algae and excess nutrients
In addition to its unique aesthetic, Phyllanthus fluitans plays a key role in aquarium balance. It absorbs excess nutrients , thus limiting algae growth. Its rapid growth helps maintain cleaner and more stable water.
It can be combined with other floating plants to create a natural effect and perfect balance in the tank. However, if it grows too much, it is advisable to thin it out so as not to completely block the light from the submerged plants.
Foliage that changes depending on the lighting
Phyllanthus fluitans is unique in its ability to change color depending on light intensity. Under moderate lighting , its leaves remain green. However, under strong light, they take on a stunning coppery-red hue, adding a remarkable aesthetic dimension to the aquarium.
This feature also allows you to play with light intensity to achieve the desired effect in your tank. It thus offers a dynamic decoration that evolves over time.
How to properly use Phyllanthus fluitans in vitro?
This plant is grown in vitro in the laboratory, ensuring superior quality without unwanted pests or algae. To install it:
Remove the plant from its in vitro pot.
Rinse thoroughly under water to remove the nourishing gel.
Divide into several portions and arrange them on the surface of the aquarium.
Good maintenance involves monitoring growth and removing excess if it becomes too dense.
Technical characteristics
Origin: South America
Growth: Average
Height: 3 - 5 cm
Leaf diameter: 1 - 2 cm
Light requirement: Low to medium
CO2 requirement: Low
An aesthetic and functional plant for your aquarium
Phyllanthus fluitans is an ideal plant for aquarists looking for a unique and natural decoration. Its glowing foliage, aerial roots, and aquarium benefits make it a perfect choice for any type of tank, whether open or closed.
It is also very useful for creating a more serene environment by providing hiding places for surface fish. Its dense foliage allows them to feel safe, thus reducing their stress and encouraging more natural behavior.
How to plant the Phyllanthus fluitans plant in video?
Calcium hydroxide Ca(OH)2 can be used for the preparation of lime water. This saturated solution of calcium hydroxide helps provide calcium and maintain the alkalinity of your aquarium.
JBL Tropol transforms aquarium water into tropical black water for the breeding of black water fish such as Characidae, Catfish, Apistos and Discus etc.
BioNitrat Ex from JBL is a biological filter medium, degrades bacteria , eliminates nitrates favorable to the growth of algae in fresh water or sea water.
Helanthium tenellum 'Green' – The perfect plant carpet for your aquarium
Helanthium tenellum 'Green' is a grassy plant ideal for creating a natural, dense carpet in a freshwater aquarium. Unlike the classic variety, this 'Green' version retains a vibrant green hue, even under strong lighting . It forms a compact and attractive plant carpet thanks to its numerous branches. Easy to maintain, it does not require complex care and grows slowly, thus limiting the need for pruning. For optimal development, a CO2 system and nutrient- rich soil are recommended. Whether for a nano aquarium or a large tank, this plant elegantly enhances the foreground.
Perfect for a natural carpet: quickly forms a compact aquatic lawn.
Evergreen foliage: does not turn red even under intense light.
Easy to maintain: slow growth, ideal for limiting regular pruning.
Rotala wallichii – Bright red stems and airy foliage
Tropica 's Rotala wallichii is an exceptional stem plant for enthusiasts who love challenges... and rewards. With its finely cut foliage and spectacular pinkish-red color in good lighting, it transforms an aquarium background into a living tableau. It grows up to 30 cm tall and offers a magnificent contrast with surrounding green plants. Very decorative when planted in groups, it requires strong lighting and a well-established CO2 system . Soft, slightly acidic water and good nutrients are also essential to reveal its full potential. A true star for well-maintained tanks.
Fine, colorful foliage, perfect for the aquarium background
Brings spectacular red and pink hues
Ideal for aquascaping tanks and experienced enthusiasts
Hottonia palustris – Fine, dense foliage, perfect for mid-season areas
Hottonia palustris , or Marsh Hottonia, is an aquarium plant with light and very graphic foliage . Native to Europe and Asia, it is perfect for creating a soft transition between low and tall plants. With its bright light green stems and finely cut leaves, it immediately brings a natural and airy effect to the decor. Undemanding, it grows slowly but surely, and its maintenance remains easy even for beginners. It can reach up to 30 cm in height and is ideally placed in the middle or background zone in nano tanks. It grows well without CO2, although a small contribution can boost its density. A beautiful plant, discreet but full of charm.
Fine, light green foliage for a natural, light effect
Perfect for the intermediate areas of the aquarium
