Cryptocoryne nevellii

Cryptocoryne nevellii is a small Sri Lankan species closely related to C. willisii, bearing compact rosettes of narrow, bright-green leaves up to 12 cm tall. It is one of the most adaptable and forgiving Crypts, tolerating a broad range of water hardness and pH while requiring minimal fertilisation or lighting. It spreads modestly via runners and is an excellent choice for naturalistic foreground plantings in community tanks. Its unassuming appearance belies a hardiness that makes it one of the most dependable low-maintenance foreground plants available.

Light: Low to medium (15–40 PAR); performs well under even minimal aquarium lighting. CO2: Not required; grows without injection. Fertiliser: Root tabs every 4 months; occasional liquid fertiliser is sufficient. Planting: Foreground plant; group in clusters of 5–7 rosettes 3 cm apart; keep crown clear of substrate. Growth: Slow, reaching 8–12 cm; spreads gradually via runners; no trimming needed.