Hygrophila costata: superb emergent and decorative plant for open aquariums and summer ponds
A large, beautiful, easy plant... that flowers!
Hygrophila costata is a large ornamental plant, ideal for hiding equipment or structuring the aquarium background. Its broad leaves can be green washed with purple, or reddish-purple veined with green, depending on conditions. It grows steadily, without sudden spurts, and loves to emerge in open tanks, where it readily flowers. Outdoors (summer), it thrives in trash ponds or on the moist banks of ponds.
Why choose Hygrophila costata?
- Undemanding: medium to strong light, no need for added CO₂.
- Emergent or submerged: perfect for open aquariums and paludariums.
- A magnificent silhouette (one of the most beautiful Hygrophilas).
- Moderate and steady growth: easy to contain and shape.
- Resistant to goldfish.
- Excellent choice for low-tech aquariums and summer ponds.
Planting and cultivation tips
- Placement: background or large shaded areas (middle/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 inside when water drops below 17-18 °C.
- Substrate: simple sand, fine or coarse, is sufficient. Enrichment not required.
- Size: cut at the desired height and replant the top (easy cutting).
- Dimensions: can reach 60 cm high × 20 cm wide.
Possible uses
- Low-tech aquarium: structuring and very decorative background plant.
- Open aquarium / paludarium: emergent growth and flowering.
- Trashcan pond / summer pond: excellent plant for moist banks or underwater. Bring inside below 17-18°C in autumn.
FAQ - Hygrophila costata
Is CO₂ needed?
No. It grows very well without flowering, in a balanced tank.
Can it flower?
Yes, as soon as it is in the emergent phase (open tank/paludarium, summer outside).
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes. Stable and regular growth, easy maintenance.
Does it tolerate goldfish?
Yes, it withstands their appetite well.
Can it stay outside all year?
No, it is a tropical species: leave it outside only in summer then bring it in as soon as the temperature drops below 17 to 18 °C.
Additional information
- Scientific name: Hygrophila costata (or guanensis)
- Type: Large background plant, emergent or submerged
- Guarantee: Without rock wool or artificial substrate
- Ideal conditions: Medium to strong light. Moist bank or underwater outdoors for summer only. In a natural aquarium between 20 and 28°C.
- Size: Up to 60 cm tall.
- Outdoor: Summer only (bring inside below 17-18 °C)
- Packaging: 2 plants at least 20 cm tall (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.
