Cryptocoryne willisii

Cryptocoryne willisii is a low-growing species from Sri Lanka bearing narrow, slightly pointed leaves in a fresh mid-green colour, sometimes with faint brown mottling depending on conditions. It spreads steadily via underground runners to form natural-looking patches in the foreground and lower midground. It is one of the easiest Crypts to keep, tolerating hard or soft water, low light, and infrequent fertilisation, making it ideal for planted community tanks where higher maintenance is impractical. Like most Crypts, it benefits greatly from root nutrition.

Light: Low to medium (15–40 PAR); one of the most shade-tolerant foreground plants available. CO2: Not required; grows without injection, though CO2 accelerates runner spread. Fertiliser: Root tabs every 4 months; occasional liquid fertiliser; benefits from iron and phosphate. Planting: Foreground to lower midground; plant in small groups 3–4 cm apart; cover roots, expose crown. Growth: Slow to moderate; reaches 8–15 cm; spreads via runners; minimal trimming required.