Ammannia sp. 'Bonsai'

Ammannia sp. 'Bonsai' is a hobbyist trade name for an extremely compact-growing Ammannia form, likely of Asian origin, that maintains unusually short internodes and develops small, reddish-tinted leaves without extensive trimming. Its miniature stature — typically no more than 10–15 cm — makes it one of the very few Ammannia forms suitable for nano aquariums.

Despite being a small plant it does not compromise on demands: high light and CO2 injection are necessary to prevent etiolation and maintain the compact, reddish growth habit. Without sufficient light the plant will stretch and lose its distinctive bonsai character.

Best used as a fine-textured foreground to midground accent in nano setups, or as a low structural element in larger planted tanks. Its rarity makes it a prized addition to specialist collections.

Light: High (60–100 PAR); critical for maintaining compact internodes and red tones. CO2: Required at 20–30 mg/L; plants etiolate and lose character without CO2. Fertilisation: Light weekly micro and macro dosing; avoid overfeeding in nano setups. Placement: Foreground to midground; single specimens or small groups of 3–5 stems. Propagation: Allow lateral shoots to develop 3–5 cm then separate and replant.