Blyxa japonica – Aquatic herb with elegant, dancing foliage
Blyxa japonica from Tropica is a unique aquarium plant. With its leaves shaped like soft strands that undulate in the current, it immediately gives a natural and lively look to the decor. Its dense habit and its olive green color that can turn red under strong light make it an ideal choice for the middle or background of the tank. Cultivated in vitro, it arrives without algae, snails, or pesticides , and integrates easily into aquascapes of all sizes, even nano. Moderately demanding, it appreciates intense lighting , a good substrate, and a CO2 system if possible. A plant that is both graphic and functional, perfect for adding movement and texture.
Dense and supple foliage which elegantly enlivens the decor
Ideal for the midground or background of a planted aquarium
Compatible with nano aquariums, medium-demanding and decorative
Blyxa japonica: an Asian plant with supple, structuring foliage
Native to South and Southeast Asia, Blyxa japonica grows naturally in rice paddies, swamps, canals, and shallow waters. It is a 100% aquatic plant, remaining permanently submerged. Very popular since its use in Takashi Amano's tanks in the 1990s, it has become a staple in Iwagumi and Dutch-style aquatic landscapes.
It can reach between 10 and 30 cm in height, with linear, lanceolate, slightly twisted foliage, soft green to reddish depending on the light intensity. Visually, it recalls a small bush of supple grasses that floats gently in the water. It is a plant that is sometimes confused with a rosette, but in reality, it is indeed a plant with a short, branched stem.
Growing conditions for healthy and colorful growth
For Blyxa japonica to thrive, it needs to be provided with a few essential conditions. It grows best at a temperature between 23 and 26°C , a pH between 5.5 and 7 , and soft water (GH between 1 and 6). Because it has a well-developed root system, it requires a rich, nutrient-rich substrate that is much more suitable than simple sand or gravel.
It requires moderate to intense light to remain compact and colorful, and a good supply of CO2 will help achieve more vigorous growth. Without CO2, it grows, but more slowly and less densely. Under intense light, it takes on slightly reddish hues that add contrast to the tank.
When it comes to fertilization, it's best not to skip it. Regular nutrient intake (2 to 3 times per week) is recommended. It's rich in iron and phosphates, which enhance its color and structure. A well-balanced environment of CO2, light, and fertilizer is key to preventing algae and achieving lush foliage.
Planting, maintenance and propagation in the aquarium
When planting, gently remove the Blyxa from its in vitro pot, rinse off the gel, divide it into several small portions and space them 5 to 8 cm apart. Push the plants about 2.5 cm into the soil to anchor them well. It may be a little floaty at first, so don't hesitate to weigh it down with a small rock while it takes root.
The plant propagates by side shoots that can be separated by hand or with scissors. These shoots can be replanted to thicken the bed. It doesn't require much pruning, but removing damaged leaves from time to time is a good idea to encourage new growth.
Blyxa japonica likes plenty of light, so avoid shaded areas and tall plants above it. Clean, well-filtered water also helps prevent deposits and algae on its fine leaves. If it melts after introduction, don't panic: once acclimated, it often grows back thicker and more beautiful than before.
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
Denitrol 100ml from JBL is a bacterial activator for introducing fish into freshwater and saltwater aquariums . Thanks to Denitrol, you will get adequate water for your fish and plants . Suitable for freshwater and saltwater aquariums, water turtles and shrimps.
JBL ProHaru Universal allows you to glue decorations, windows, technical parts, seal leaks in the aquarium and terrarium. This glue can be used underwater and out of 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
