(Set of 3 stems)
Elodea: an easy oxygenating plant for natural aquariums and ponds
What is Elodea?
Elodea (Elodea densa) is a fast-growing aquatic plant whose long stems, covered with deep-green leaves arranged in a spiral, use light at every depth and release significant amounts of oxygen, visible as bubbles. Able to grow freely or with slight anchoring, it thrives equally well in low-tech aquariums, ponds, or unfiltered container ponds, without substrate or CO₂ injection. These qualities make it the perfect ally for beginners and experienced natural-aquarium enthusiasts alike.
Why choose Elodea for a natural aquarium?
- 🫧 Highly oxygenating: intense photosynthesis, with constant bubbles when the light is strong.
- 🧹 Natural filtration: absorbs nitrates, CO2, and phosphates, starving algae.
- 🛡️ Proven antibiotic effect: helps limit cyanobacteria.
- 🦐 Dense refuge: protects fry, shrimp, and microfauna.
- 💪 Versatile & hardy: tolerates 3–30 °C and overwinters under ice.
Easy Elodea care
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Without a substrate: let it float, wedge it between stones/roots, or weigh down the base.
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Light: medium to high.
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Regular trimming and propagation: pinch or cut stems that are too long or bare. Each fragment becomes a new plant.
Tips for using Elodea effectively
- A purifying plant mass or decorative green curtain in the background.
- Pair with floating plants (large duckweed, Phyllanthus...) to filter the light.
- Maintains a vital oxygen level for fish during heatwaves in ponds.
FAQ – Elodea Aquarium
Can elodea float freely?
Yes, and it anchors itself by producing “root-like” filaments to withstand the current.
Does it need a substrate?
No, it feeds directly from the water. Ideal for a low-tech tank or a natural pond in this water-purifying role.
Compatible without a filter?
Absolutely. Its purifying action does for free what no filter could do.
Invasive?
It grows quickly. Remove excess growth to make room.
Does it combine easily with other plants?
Yes, with other oxygenating or floating plants.
Additional information
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Scientific name: Elodea densa
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Adult height: 20–50 cm (can exceed 1 m in a pond).
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Packaging: set of 3 stems (indicative weight: 20 g).
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Guarantee: plants without rock wool or artificial substrate.
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Recommendation: although it is not classified as invasive (unlike its cousin E. canadiensis), please never release the plant into the wild. Every natural aquatic ecosystem is fragile and precious.
