Ottelia ulvifolia

Ottelia ulvifolia is native to tropical Africa, growing in lakes, rivers, and swamps from West Africa to East Africa. Its submerged leaves are elongated and strap-like, broader than those of O. alismoides, with strongly undulate margins that shimmer and catch light beautifully. The translucent, fresh-green foliage creates a luminous effect under aquarium lighting that few other plants can match. It is moderately demanding, preferring soft to moderately hard water, bright light, and CO2 supplementation for best performance. As with most Ottelia it has an annual growth cycle and will eventually flower at the surface if conditions are favourable, after which the parent rosette may die back.

Light: Medium to high (40–80 PAR); wavy leaf texture most pronounced under strong illumination. CO2: Recommended; CO2 injection significantly improves vigour and leaf quality. Fertilisation: Root tabs every 2–3 months; weekly comprehensive liquid fertiliser. Placement: Midground to background as a feature plant; allow ample space for leaf spread. Propagation: Seeds collected after surface flowering; offset rosettes produced occasionally.