Hygrophila costata: a superb emergent and decorative plant for open-top aquariums and summer ponds
A large, beautiful, easy plant—and one that flowers!
Hygrophila costata is a large ornamental plant, ideal for hiding equipment or structuring the background of an aquarium. Its broad leaves may be green washed with purple, or purplish-red veined with green, depending on the conditions. It grows steadily, without sudden spurts, and loves growing emersed in an open-top tank, where it readily flowers. Outdoors (in summer), it thrives in tub aquariums or along the damp edges of ponds.
Why choose Hygrophila costata?
- Undemanding: medium to high light, with no need for added CO₂.
- Emergent or submerged: perfect for open-top aquariums and paludariums.
- A magnificent silhouette (one of the most beautiful Hygrophila species).
- Moderate, steady growth: easy to contain and shape.
- Tolerates goldfish well.
- An excellent choice for low-tech aquariums and summer ponds.
Planting and cultivation tips
- Placement: background or large areas to be concealed (midground/background), due to its size.
- Light: tolerates simple lighting. The stronger the light, the more compact and colorful the plant becomes.
- Temperature: indoors, with or without heating. Bring it inside when the water temperature falls below 17–18 °C.
- Substrate: simple fine or coarse sand is sufficient. Enrichment is not required.
- Size: cut at the desired height and replant the top (easy propagation from cuttings).
- Dimensions: can reach 60 cm high × 20 cm wide.
Possible uses
- Low-tech aquarium: structural and highly decorative background plant.
- Open-top aquarium / paludarium: emergent growth and flowering.
- Outdoor tub pond / summer pond: excellent wet-bank or underwater plant. Bring indoors below 17–18°C in autumn.
FAQ - Hygrophila costata
Does it require CO₂?
No. It grows very well without flowering in a balanced tank.
Can it flower?
Yes, as soon as it is in its emergent phase (open-top tank/paludarium, outdoors in summer).
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes. Stable, steady growth and easy maintenance.
Can it tolerate goldfish?
Yes, it tolerates their appetite well.
Can it stay outdoors all year round?
No, it is a tropical species: leave it outdoors only in summer and bring it indoors as soon as the temperature drops below 17–18°C.
Additional information
- Scientific name: Hygrophila costata (or guanensis)
- Type: Large background plant, emergent or submerged
- Guarantee: No rock wool or artificial substrate
- Ideal conditions: Medium to high light. On a wet bank or underwater outdoors during summer only. In a natural aquarium between 20 and 28°C.
- Size: Up to 60 cm tall.
- Outdoor: Summer only (bring indoors below 17–18°C)
- Packaging: 2 stems at least 20 cm long (approximate weight: 10 g)
- Recommendation: Even though it is not classified as invasive in Europe, please never release the plant into the wild, for the safety of our ecosystems.
