Vallisneria Spiralis

Vallisneria spiralis is one of the oldest and most widely cultivated aquarium plants, native to slow-moving and still waters across Europe, Asia, and Africa. It produces long, linear, bright-green leaves from a compact basal rosette, spreading rapidly by sending out horizontal runners that give rise to daughter plants. Its tolerance of a wide range of water parameters — including hard, alkaline conditions — makes it particularly useful in community tanks, cichlid setups, and goldfish aquariums where many other plants struggle. It requires no CO2 injection and performs well under low to medium light, making it an ideal choice for beginners seeking a lush, natural background with minimal maintenance.

Light: Low to medium (20–50 PAR); tolerates dim conditions with only slightly reduced growth rate. CO2: Not required; grows vigorously on dissolved CO2 alone in most tap water. Fertilisation: Moderate root feeder — root tabs every 3–4 months; occasional liquid potassium and micronutrients beneficial. Placement: Plant in groups across the rear of the aquarium; space 3–5 cm apart to allow runner spread. Propagation: Produces lateral runners prolifically; sever daughter plants once they reach 5–10 cm and replant.