Sagittaria platyphylla

Sagittaria platyphylla is a large, robust Sagittaria native to the south-central United States, where it grows along riverbanks and in shallow lakes. Its broad, lance-shaped leaves are significantly wider than those of other aquatic Sagittaria species, creating a bold, structural look in the background of large aquariums. It is undemanding in terms of water chemistry, tolerating a wide range of hardness and pH, and grows vigorously under moderate light without CO2 injection. Its size makes it best suited to aquariums of 150 litres or more. It spreads by runners but at a more measured pace than smaller species, making it easier to control in a planned layout.

Light: Medium (30–60 PAR); adequate growth under standard community tank lighting. CO2: Not required; optional supplementation accelerates growth. Fertilisation: Root tabs every 3 months; liquid fertiliser weekly covering iron and macronutrients. Placement: Background of large tanks; plant singly or in small groups of 3–5. Propagation: Lateral runners produced regularly; sever and replant daughter plants as desired.