Growing Phyllanthus Fluitans (Phyllanthus Fluitans) In The Aquarium

This is a floating plant. Its natural habitats are standing or slow-moving reservoirs in South and Central Americas. This plant can also grow in muddy, swampy or marshy bottom (it can develop roots).

This species has horizontal stem with sessile, heart-shaped or circular leaves which are close arranged in pairs opposite each other. Colour of these leaves is from green to reddish. This colour depends on light intensity and age of the plant. The root system (red threads with fine hairs) develops along the entire length of the stem and they hang freely in the water. The plant has white, fine and dioecious flowers which develop between summer and autumn.

This species isn't too popular but it is very decorative plant. In aquarium this species is red. It blooms when the water is enriched with minerals and nutrients and minimum 12 hours of light at day is provided (even in the winter). This plant grows quickly, so it needs frequent cutting.

This is spermatophyte species but in aquarium we reproduce it vegetatively – by dividing rooted stem.