Lagarosiphon major

Lagarosiphon major is native to southern Africa, particularly South Africa and the surrounding region, where it grows in lakes and slow rivers. It produces long, flexible stems densely clothed in small, recurved dark-green leaves arranged in alternating whorls, creating a thick, bushy appearance that makes it one of the most effective oxygenating plants available. It is especially valuable in coldwater and temperate setups — goldfish tanks, native European biotopes, and unheated aquariums — where it thrives in cool conditions that would stress tropical plants. Growth is rapid under moderate light without any supplementation, and regular stem pruning encourages bushy side-branching.

Light: Medium (30–60 PAR); grows well under standard lighting without any special requirements. CO2: Not required; absorbs CO2 efficiently from well-circulated water. Fertilisation: Light feeder — occasional all-in-one liquid fertiliser every 2 weeks is sufficient. Placement: Midground to background; plant stem bunches 3–5 cm apart for a dense oxygenating mass. Propagation: Tip cuttings root readily; cut stems to 10–15 cm and replant; discard woody lower sections.