Cabomba furcata Purple

Cabomba furcata, sometimes sold as Cabomba piauhyensis, is native to Central and South America and is considered the most demanding member of the Cabomba genus. Its finely divided, feathery leaves are violet to red-purple in colour, creating a uniquely cool-toned contrast to green plantings. It requires very soft, slightly acidic water, strong CO2 supplementation, and high intensity light. Even minor lapses in water quality can cause rapid deterioration, but a well-grown specimen is breathtaking.

Light: High (70–100+ PAR); insufficient light causes rapid etiolation and leaf drop. CO2: Required at 25–40 mg/L; the most CO2-dependent Cabomba species. Fertiliser: High micronutrient and iron dosing daily; very sensitive to trace element deficiencies. Planting: Background groups of 3–5 stems; very gentle flow essential; trim every 1–2 weeks. Growth: Moderate; 20–60 cm; demanding but spectacular when conditions are optimal.