Hygrophila pinnatifida

10 October 2026

Hygrophila pinnatifida is a distinctive Asian stem plant recognized by its deeply lobed leaves, contrasting veins and reddish stems. In aquariums it can grow as an upright plant or be trained across hardscape when side shoots are secured to rock or wood. Color and compactness vary with light, nutrients and carbon availability. The supplied image is consistent with this identification, although cultivar or regional form cannot be confirmed from an image alone.

Identification

Hygrophila pinnatifida produces opposite leaves with strongly serrated or pinnately lobed margins. Submerged leaves are commonly green, olive or brownish, with reddish tones developing under stronger light. Stems may be reddish to brown. It is a rooted stem plant, but it also forms holdfast-like roots from nodes and can attach to porous hardscape.

Placement and planting

Use it as a textured middleground plant or attach trimmed stems to rock and root. Do not bury the entire stem. Plant individual cuttings with space between them so light reaches the lower leaves. Secure attached cuttings until new roots develop, then remove excess ties or weights.

Light and water quality

Moderate light is suitable, while stronger, stable lighting can improve compact growth and reddish coloration. Provide consistent fertilization and adequate nitrate, phosphate, potassium and trace elements. Carbon dioxide is not strictly required for survival, but supplementation generally supports denser growth and better form. Maintain stable aquarium conditions rather than making abrupt changes.

Pruning and propagation

Prune by cutting the stem above a healthy node. Replant the upper cutting or attach it to hardscape, while the remaining stem can produce lateral shoots. Remove weak, shaded or deteriorating lower leaves. Regular trimming keeps the plant compact and prevents it from shading nearby plants.

Identification note

The plant supplied under the source label 1 2 Grow! Hygrophila pinnatifida is treated here as Hygrophila pinnatifida. Image-based identification cannot verify the exact cultivated form, shipment condition or any trade cultivar name.

Plant info

Colors: Green, Red, Dark green
Difficulty: Medium
Origin: Asia
Usage: On rock or root
Type: Stem plant
Growth rate: Medium
Height: 15-30 cm
Light demand: Medium
CO2: Medium

Hygrophila

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