Nymphoides hydrophylla Taiwan

Nymphoides hydrophylla 'Taiwan' is a selected form of this Southeast Asian species, bearing alternately arranged kidney-shaped to broadly heart-shaped leaves on thin, wiry stems. The leaf shape stands in bold contrast to the linear and lanceolate leaves dominant in most stem plant collections, making it a valuable compositional element in planted tanks. It is moderately easy to grow under medium light with CO2 supplementation and creates a fascinating naturalistic effect reminiscent of floating lily pads in miniature.

Light: Medium (30–60 PAR); adapts to moderate light without CO2. CO2: Beneficial at 15–25 mg/L; improves growth rate and leaf size quality. Fertiliser: Weekly balanced NPK plus micronutrients; iron supplementation beneficial. Planting: Midground groups of 3–5 stems; distinctive leaf shape best appreciated with spacing. Growth: Moderate; 15–30 cm; unusual leaf shape makes individual stems visually effective.