Cabomba aquatica Purple

Cabomba aquatica is a species of fanwort native to the Amazon basin and surrounding tropical regions of South America, where it grows in warm, slow-moving, often acidic waters. The purple form, sometimes referred to as C. furcata or the purple fanwort, produces finely dissected, fan-shaped whorled leaves in a vivid purple to violet-magenta, making it one of the most colourfully distinctive stem plants available in the hobby. The colour is most intense under strong lighting on the newest growth and fades somewhat on older leaves lower down the stem.

Purple Cabomba is a fast-growing stem plant that performs best in high-tech planted tanks with strong lighting, CO2 injection, and regular fertilisation. It is more demanding than the common green Cabomba caroliniana and will melt or lose its purple colour under inadequate light or nutrient conditions. Soft, slightly acidic water similar to its native Amazon habitat encourages the best growth and colour expression.

This plant makes a spectacular background or midground accent in Dutch-style planted tanks and contrasts beautifully against green and red stem plants. Regular trimming of the tops and replanting promotes bushy, compact growth.

Light: High (80–150 PAR); purple colour is light-dependent and fades under insufficient intensity. CO2: Beneficial; injection significantly improves colour saturation and growth quality. Fertilisation: Weekly liquid fertiliser with full macro and micronutrients; iron is particularly important. Placement: Background or midground; trim tops and replant for bushy growth. Propagation: Stem cuttings — trim the top 10–15 cm and replant in substrate; roots form within 1–2 weeks.