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Water Wisteria

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Water Wisteria Hygrophila difformis
Syn: Synnema triflorum Photo © Animal-World

   The leaves of the Water Wisteria depend on the temperature of the water - at higher temperatures they are large with more space between them; however if the temperature is lower they are smaller and much closer together!

   The Water Wisteria can be a beautiful and fulfilling addition to an aquarium if it is given proper care. This hygrophila grows to a maximum height of 20 inches (50 cm) at a moderate rate, and goes best as a midground or background plant. They should be planted with only a few stalks together, and each plant should have space between it and the next one because they will grow and need plenty of room to spread. The leaves themselves can grow quite large - up to 4 inches long!

   The water conditions should be regularly checked to help the Water Wisteria thrive. It needs a pH between 6.5 and 7.5, and very bright light to keep it growing and looking healthy. Make sure to perform regular water changes and fertilize regularly after each change. Liquid fertilizers with iron on them should be used after each change and carbon dioxide fertilization is also a good idea. The bottom substrate should be nutrient-rich. Propagation of the Water Wisteria is done by planting the side shoots of the main plant or by planting cuttings.

For more Information on keeping a planted aquarium see:
About Planted Aquariums, Adding Aquatic Plants For a Healthy Aquarium

Water conditions:
   Temperature: 74-82° F (23-28° C)
   pH: 6.5 - 7.5
   dCH: 2-15°

Lighting:
   Light level: Extremely Bright - 75 watts per 25 gallons

Propagation:
   The Dwarf Rotala propagates from cuttings and side shoots.

Availability:
   The Water Wisteria is readily available.

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Some of the coolest comments:
this is a plant with high tolerance for just about everything. it doesnt much care about pH, lighting, etc. The roots grow unbelievably quickly, so be warned it will be serious competition for surrounding plants and a potential problem for an undergravel filter. The one thing this plant really hates is to be crowded by its own or another kind. if this happens, it will drop all of its leaves except the top rosette, which isnt a great look. Also avoid bruising the stems during maintinance. there are many ways to use it. wisteria can be used as a groundcover in the front of the aquarium, or in a bunch in the middle or back. it is interesting when contrasted with big broad or long straightleaves of a different shade of green or red (i.e. ozelot sword, or vallis). finally, avoid buying cuttings that have been cultivated above ground, which will display large roughly outlined oval leaves, as these cuttings will take longer to adjust to their new environment. Barbara 2006-02-14

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Author: Jasmine Brough