Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

Midground to background. Its striking appearance makes it an ideal focal plant. Avoid planting it in heavily shaded areas, as it requires direct light to maintain lower leaves.

Botanical form

Stem

Known for its unique downward-curved, rippled leaves that look almost curled. It boasts a beautiful brick-red to copper color that adds immense warmth to the aquascape.

Growth

Medium

Moderate growth rate. With intense light and CO2 injection, it grows steadily but not overwhelmingly fast, making it easier to manage than some other stem plants.

Substrate

High

Ammannia senegalensis, often known as Red Ammannia, is a demanding stem plant that thrives only when provided with a nutrient-dense substrate. It utilizes a vast root network to continuously draw up large amounts of iron and trace elements from the soil, which are essential for developing its deeply textured, reddish-orange leaves. A substrate depth of at least 6 centimeters is required to accommodate its root mass and securely hold its thick stems. To sustain its growth long-term, regular replenishment of the substrate with root tabs is highly recommended.

Column fertilization

Required

Daily liquid fertilization is recommended. Maintaining a good balance of nitrates and phosphates in the water column is key to preventing algae on its slower-growing leaves.

Root fertilization

Recommended

Benefits greatly from a rich, soil-based substrate. Deep root fertilization supports thicker stems and larger, healthier leaves.

Trimming

Occasional

Trim the plant by cutting the stem and replanting the top. The remaining lower portion will often sprout multiple new shoots, creating a denser cluster.

Propagation

Cuttings

Easily propagated through stem cuttings. Snip a healthy shoot and plant it directly into the aquasoil. Rooting takes place within a few days.

Sensitivity

HIGH

Sensitive to shading and poor water circulation. Lower leaves will quickly turn black and drop off if the plant is crowded or starved of light.

Layout role

Midground, Background

An excellent contrast plant that breaks up the texture of typical straight-leaved aquatic plants. Its curly, copper-red leaves create a strong focal point in Dutch layouts.