Crinum natans

Crinum natans grows in the rivers and streams of West Africa where it experiences strong current, and its long (up to 1 metre), wave-edged leaves are adapted to undulate gracefully in flow. It grows from a large bulb that stores energy through unfavourable periods and produces new leaves steadily throughout the year. Unlike many Crinum species it is fully aquatic and does not require emersed growth, making it a reliable and impressive permanent resident of large aquariums.

Light: Medium (30–50 PAR); tolerates lower light well once established — one of the most shade-tolerant large background plants. CO2: Not required; performs well in low-tech tanks with root tab fertilisation. Planting: Plant the bulb with the upper half above the substrate; do not bury the growing tip. Maintenance: Remove old, yellowing leaves at the base; allow the bulb to grow undisturbed for best long-term performance. Note: Very slow-growing — expect one or two new leaves per month; do not disturb or relocate the bulb once established.