Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

Best utilized in the midground where it can add a unique textural and color contrast to surrounding green plants. It should be planted in an open area that receives unobstructed, intense lighting. Planting it in a small, dense group maximizes its visual impact.

Botanical form

Stem

Characterized by distinctive, bamboo-like stems with slightly fuzzy or hairy leaves, a trait uncommon in aquatic plants. Under high light, the leaves develop attractive purple, pink, or reddish hues on their undersides. Its growth habit is upright but it can occasionally branch out.

Growth

Slow

Has a moderate growth rate when provided with optimal conditions, including high light and CO2 injection. Without CO2, its growth can be quite slow and its appearance may suffer. Once acclimated to the environment, it grows steadily toward the water surface.

Substrate

Medium

Cyanotis sp. prefers a moderately rich substrate that offers a good balance of drainage and nutrient retention. A fine-grained aqua soil or porous gravel blend is ideal for its root system to penetrate easily. Providing a substrate bed of 4-5 centimeters ensures the roots can properly anchor the plant and access essential minerals. Steady nutrient uptake from the bottom complements its foliar absorption, leading to denser and healthier growth.

Column fertilization

Recommended

Consistent liquid fertilization is critical to ensure it receives all necessary micro and macronutrients. Sufficient iron is particularly important for bringing out the purple and pink tones in its foliage. A comprehensive dosing regime will keep the plant robust and colorful.

Root fertilization

None

While it relies heavily on water column nutrients, a fertile substrate will provide a strong foundation and support vigorous root development. Root tabs can be beneficial in older setups where the substrate has become depleted. A healthy root system aids in overall nutrient uptake and stability.

Trimming

Occasional

Trim the tops using sharp scissors when the stems grow too tall or reach the surface. The remaining lower portions will typically produce side shoots, creating a bushier appearance. The trimmed tops can be replanted to propagate the plant.

Propagation

Cuttings

Easily propagated by stem cuttings; simply snip the top portion and replant it into the substrate. Ensure the newly planted cuttings are not shaded by taller plants. Leaving the rooted bottom part in the substrate will encourage branching.

Sensitivity

Moderate

This plant is sensitive to shading and requires high light intensity to prevent the lower leaves from melting or falling off. It also demands stable CO2 levels and good water circulation. It can be somewhat delicate during shipping or transplantation.

Layout role

Nano, Midground, Background

Serves as a unique focal point or midground accent due to its unusual texture and purplish undersides. It contrasts exceptionally well with fine-leaved, bright green foreground or background plants. It adds a touch of rarity and botanical interest to advanced aquascapes.