Ammannia pedicellata 'Golden'

Ammannia pedicellata 'Golden' is a colour-selected form of this African Ammannia that produces warm golden-yellow to chartreuse foliage rather than the green-to-red colouration of the standard species. This golden pigmentation is stable and maintained across a range of light intensities, although the warmest yellow tones develop under the strongest illumination.

It is among the rarer aquatic stem plants in cultivation and is primarily available through specialist aquatic plant dealers and hobbyist exchanges. Its care requirements mirror those of A. gracilis — high light, CO2, and good nutrients — but it requires particularly consistent iron dosing to prevent the golden leaves from bleaching to pale yellow-white.

Outstanding as a warm-toned accent column in Dutch layouts, particularly when placed adjacent to deep green or contrasting red stems. It creates a luminous, almost glowing effect under strong lighting.

Light: High (60–100 PAR); golden-yellow tones are most vivid at higher intensities. CO2: Required at 20–30 mg/L; deficiency causes rapid colour loss and leaf drop. Fertilisation: Iron 0.1–0.3 mg/L maintained; comprehensive micro dose 2–3× weekly. Placement: Background focal column; 5–7 stems with 2–3 cm spacing. Propagation: Trim tops at 12–15 cm and replant; lateral shoots develop within 10–14 days.