Lagenandra meeboldii 'Green'

Lagenandra meeboldii 'Green' is a Sri Lankan rheophytic plant belonging to the Araceae family, closely related to Cryptocoryne but adapted to fast-flowing streams where it grows attached to rocks. Its leaves are elongated, lance-shaped, and have an attractive glossy surface with a deep, rich green coloration. Plants grow from a rhizome-like stem that should not be buried too deeply.

In the aquarium, this species grows slowly but reliably in low to medium light without CO2 supplementation, making it well suited to low-tech planted tanks. It appreciates soft to moderately hard water and stable conditions — like many rheophytes it is sensitive to sudden changes in water chemistry, particularly pH. Once established, however, it is very hardy and long-lived.

Lagenandra meeboldii 'Green' is a sophisticated choice for aquarists seeking unusual alternatives to the widely kept Cryptocoryne and Anubias species. Its glossy, elongated leaves provide a different form factor in the midground, and it works particularly well in Sri Lankan biotope aquariums alongside appropriate fish and other endemic plants.

Light: Low to medium; 20–50 µmol PAR; tolerates low light well — one of its key advantages. CO2: Not required; grows without supplementation but benefits from CO2 for faster establishment. Fertilisation: Weekly liquid fertilisation; root tabs in substrate assist the root system once the plant is established. Placement: Plant in substrate or attach loosely to hardscape in midground; avoid frequent repositioning — it prefers stability. Propagation: Separate rhizome side-shoots once they have 3–4 leaves and replant separately.