Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

This plant is uniquely suited for the background or as a midground accent, often grown so it reaches the surface. It tends to form beautiful floating rosettes of leaves if allowed to reach the top of the water column. It requires high light and should not be placed beneath the shade of larger plants.

Botanical form

Stem

The plant is characterized by very thin stems bearing opposite, linear leaves when submerged, transitioning to spoon-shaped floating leaves in beautiful terminal rosettes at the surface. The dual leaf morphology makes it a fascinating addition to open-top tanks. The stems are fragile and sway gracefully in moderate water currents.

Growth

Fast

Under high light and CO2 supplementation, Callitriche palustris exhibits a very fast growth rate. The stems quickly shoot towards the surface, requiring regular pruning if a submerged bush-like appearance is desired. In lower light setups, growth slows considerably and the internodes become noticeably elongated.

Substrate

Medium

It prefers a soft, fine-grained substrate that is relatively rich in nutrients. Aquasoils or sand mixed with clay additives work best to support its very fine, hair-like root system. A harsh or overly coarse gravel will damage the roots and hinder the plant's ability to anchor itself securely.

Column fertilization

Recommended

Liquid fertilization is crucial, as the thin submerged leaves absorb a significant amount of nutrients directly from the water. A comprehensive EI or lean dosing schedule will keep the plant fed during its rapid upward growth. Potassium and trace elements must be replenished regularly to avoid structural weakness in the stems.

Root fertilization

None

While it feeds heavily from the water column, root fertilization provides a stable nutritional base that prevents bottom deterioration. Providing root tabs deep in the soil encourages strong root development, anchoring the buoyant stems securely. This is particularly important for older stems that might otherwise rot at the base.

Trimming

Occasional

Trimming is straightforward; simply cut the stems or leaves to the desired length. Regular pruning encourages bushier, denser growth and prevents the plant from taking over the tank. Replant the healthy trimmings if you wish to expand its footprint.

Propagation

Cuttings

Propagation is incredibly easy; simply cut the stem at any point and replant the top portion into the substrate. The cutting will root within a few days, and the lower portion will usually develop new shoots. Floating broken off pieces will also continue to grow and can be planted later.

Sensitivity

HIGH

Generally robust but can melt if water parameters swing drastically. It prefers stable conditions and clean water with good flow. Algae can be an issue if organic waste is allowed to accumulate on its delicate leaves.

Layout role

Midground, Background

Excellent for creating natural-looking thickets or adding a touch of wildness to the aquascape. It bridges the gap between different plant groups beautifully. Its unique texture provides a great contrast to broad-leaved plants.