Aponogeton capuronii

Aponogeton capuronii is endemic to Madagascar, where it grows in the island's soft, slightly acidic rivers and streams. It produces broad, ovate to lance-shaped leaves with a distinctive semi-bullate surface texture and a pleasingly crinkled leaf margin that sets it apart from other Malagasy Aponogeton species. Leaf colour is a rich olive-green with a slight bronze sheen under high light.

In the aquarium, A. capuronii grows from a corm-like bulb that benefits from a nutrient-rich substrate. It appreciates soft, slightly acidic water with minimal hardness and a temperature range of 22–28 °C. Like many Malagasy species it may enter a partial dormancy if light levels drop or nutrients are depleted, so consistent fertilisation and a regular photoperiod are important for sustained growth.

Because it can reach 30–60 cm in height, it works best as a single bold background specimen in aquariums of 150 litres or more. Its textured foliage contrasts beautifully with smoother-leaved plants and provides an excellent mid-depth habitat for mid-water fish.

Light: Medium to high; 0.5–1 W/litre or equivalent LED, 10–12 hours daily to maintain good leaf colour and prevent dormancy. CO2: Beneficial but not essential; injection at 15–25 mg/l accelerates growth and enhances leaf texture and colour. Fertilisation: Root tabs every 6–8 weeks plus liquid micronutrients weekly; potassium and iron particularly important for healthy olive-green colouration. Placement: Plant the bulb halfway into a nutrient-rich substrate at the back or rear-centre of the aquarium, leaving the growing tip exposed. Propagation: Produces daughter bulbs at the base of the parent after flowering; separate and replant once they reach 2–3 cm diameter.