Hygrophila corymbosa 'Aroma'

Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

This variant is generally positioned in the midground or background, depending on the pruning style. It needs enough space around its stems to allow light penetration to the lower leaves. Grouping several stems creates a visually appealing and cohesive bush.

Botanical form

Stem

The plant displays sturdy stems with slightly serrated, lanceolate leaves. When grown emersed, the leaves emit a distinct aromatic scent when bruised or crushed, giving the variant its name. The foliage is typically a vibrant green but can show bronze hues under intense light.

Growth

Slow

It grows at a moderate to fast pace under suitable lighting and CO2 conditions. Regular maintenance is required to shape the plant and keep its height in check. Under lower light, its growth slows down significantly.

Substrate

High

Column fertilization

Recommended

Liquid fertilization is very beneficial as it absorbs nutrients efficiently from the water. Routine dosing of a complete fertilizer ensures that macro and micronutrients are always available. This helps maintain the lush appearance of its broad leaves.

Root fertilization

Recommended

A nutrient-rich substrate greatly supports the development of its robust root system. Root tabs provide an excellent source of sustained nutrition, leading to thicker stems. However, it can still perform well in inert substrates if column dosing is heavy.

Trimming

Occasional

Trimming is best done by cutting the stem above a node to encourage branching. The lower portion will produce side shoots, making the plant denser over time. The pruned tops can be replanted into the substrate to propagate the stand.

Propagation

Cuttings

Propagation is easy and is achieved through simple stem cuttings. Select a healthy top shoot, snip it off, and plant it in the substrate. Roots will form from the buried nodes within a week.

Sensitivity

Moderate

It is generally hardy but can be sensitive to severe potassium deficiencies, which cause pinholes in the leaves. It may experience slight melting when transitioning from emersed to submersed forms. Good water circulation is important to prevent algae buildup on older leaves.

Layout role

Midground, Background

It functions well as a structural background plant that adds bulk and texture. The slightly undulating leaves provide a nice contrast to smooth-leaved or very fine-leaved plants. It works beautifully in both nature-style and Dutch aquascapes.