Gymnocoronis spilanthoides Senegal Tea

Gymnocoronis spilanthoides, commonly called the Senegal Tea Plant or Gymnoco, is native to South America and is celebrated for its rapid growth rate and large, toothed leaves that give it a visually impressive, almost tropical appearance. In aquariums it is primarily valued as a nutrient export plant — its fast, vigorous growth consumes large quantities of nitrogen and phosphorus. It is very easy to grow under a wide range of conditions and makes an ideal background plant for large tanks, though it requires frequent trimming.

Light: Medium (25–60 PAR); grows rapidly even under modest lighting. CO2: Not required; among the most undemanding large stem plants available. Fertiliser: Weekly balanced fertiliser; high nutrient uptake means generous dosing is rewarded. Planting: Background groups of 3–5 stems spaced 5 cm; trim every 1–2 weeks. Growth: Very fast; 30–60 cm; aggressive grower ideal for nutrient export and new tanks.