PlantFreshwaterEasy
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Hygrophila sp. 'Tiger'
Hygrophila sp. 'Tiger'
A striking midground stem plant characterized by bold, dark stripes across its light green leaves. It requires moderate lighting and nutrient-rich substrates to highlight its unique 'tiger' pattern.
Water Temperature
4 - 35 °C
pH Value
5 - 8
Water type
Freshwater
Light
Low to High
CO2
Low - High
Expected height
50 cm
GH
4 - 15 dGH
KH
2 - 21 dKH
Species description
Geographical Origin and Habitat: This cultivar or variety of Hygrophila is native to the swampy and humid areas of tropical Asia (likely India or Southeast Asia). It grows along alluvial plains and the banks of calm watercourses. It displays a strong amphibious nature, adapting to live submerged during floods and in emersed form during the dry season.
Taxonomy & Genetics: It belongs to the family Acanthaceae, genus Hygrophila. The 'Tiger' variety was selected for a genetic mutation that stimulates the production of anthocyanins along the leaf conducting vessels under strong light. This genetic response produces a highly characteristic dark striping on the leaf blades.
Physical Structure: It features robust, erect stems that grow very rapidly. The leaves develop in opposite pairs along knotty stems with regular internodes. The leaves are lanceolate, pointed, and have finely serrated margins. The height can easily exceed 40-50 cm, tending to emerge if not pruned.
Color & Texture: The leaves display an olive green or bronze green color decorated with dark, brown, or reddish stripes along the main veins, recalling the striped coat of a tiger. The texture is solid, rough, and compact. The dark colors stand out vividly under strong lighting and with proper iron supplementation.
Care, breeding and tankmates
Lighting & CO2: Requires medium to strong lighting to maintain the characteristic dark striping. In low light conditions, the plant turns entirely green. CO2 is not mandatory but supports growth and reduces the distance between internodes.
Nutrition & Substrate: It is a heavy
Water Chemistry: Exceptionally tolerant and hardy plant. It withstands water temperatures between 4°C and 35°C, pH from 5.0 to 8.0, and carbon hardness (KH) from 2 to 21 dKH. It adapts to almost all freshwater conditions.
Space Management & Placement: Its optimal placement is in the midground or background of the aquarium. Due to its very fast growth rate, it must be placed in spacious areas where it cannot shade slower-growing plants.
Pruning: Pruning consists of cutting the stem tops to the desired height with sharp scissors. The tops can be replanted directly into the substrate to propagate the plant, while the pruned base will quickly develop lateral shoots.
Risks & Diseases: It is particularly prone to potassium deficiencies, which manifest as small round holes on older leaves. Extremely fast growth can suffocate neighboring plants if not controlled with constant pruning.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
This cultivar or variety of Hygrophila is native to the swampy and humid areas of tropical Asia (likely India or Southeast Asia). It grows along alluvial plains and the banks of calm watercourses. It displays a strong amphibious nature, adapting to live submerged during floods and in emersed form during the dry season.
Origin
South and Southeast AsiaSelective breeding and cultivars
Plant profile
- Placement
- Midground
- This plant is best suited for the midground of the aquarium where it can be easily admired. Its unique pattern makes it an exceptional focal point. Plant it in small groups to create a dense, eye-catching cluster. Ensure it receives strong, unobstructed light for the best visual impact.
- Botanical form
- Stem
- It features elongated leaves with striking, dark 'tiger' stripes along the veins. The stems are robust and grow upright towards the surface. Under strong light, the leaves may develop deeper brownish-red hues. Its overall form adds a highly decorative and exotic touch.
- Growth
- VERY_FAST
- It exhibits a moderate to fast growth rate when grown under optimal conditions. Intense light and CO2 injection will accelerate its vertical growth. In lower tech setups, it grows much slower and may lose its intense patterning. Regular maintenance is required to keep it bushy.
- Substrate
- Low
- Hygrophila sp. 'Tiger' is a highly adaptable stem plant that develops a vigorous, branching root system regardless of the substrate type. It grows readily in plain gravel or sand, pulling the majority of its needed nutrients directly from the water column through both submerged leaves and fine adventitious roots. Providing a 3 to 5 centimeter bed of fine-to-medium grade material ensures the stems remain securely anchored while facilitating easy propagation through cuttings.
- Column fertilization
- Recommended
- Liquid column fertilization is highly recommended for this stunning stem plant. It absorbs a majority of its nutrients directly from the water column. A comprehensive liquid fertilizer applied regularly will yield the best color saturation. Watch for pale new leaves as a sign of deficiency.
- Root fertilization
- None
- While it feeds heavily from the water column, a nutrient-rich substrate provides an excellent backup source. Root tabs help establish a strong root system rapidly. The roots firmly anchor the stems in the substrate. Root feeding is beneficial but secondary to column dosing.
- Trimming
- Occasional
- Regular trimming is essential to encourage lateral branching and maintain a compact shape. Cut the stem just above a node to promote new side shoots. The trimmed tops can be replanted to propagate the plant. Avoid letting it grow too tall and leggy.
- Propagation
- Cuttings
- Propagation is straightforward and typical of stem plants. Simply cut a healthy top shoot and replant it directly into the substrate. The cutting will quickly develop new roots. The rooted bottom portion will usually produce multiple new side branches.
- Sensitivity
- Moderate
- This species can be sensitive to sudden fluctuations in water parameters. It may shed lower leaves if light is insufficient or flow is blocked. It can be susceptible to algae on its patterned leaves if water quality drops. Ensure strong light and good water circulation.
- Layout role
- Midground, Background
- It serves perfectly as a striking midground accent or focal point. Its unique tiger stripes contrast beautifully with solid green or red plants. It draws the eye and breaks up monotonous areas of the aquascape. It pairs well with delicate, fine-leaved background species.
Image gallery
Licensed images linked to the species or, when marked, to the closest representative taxon.
Related species
Recommendations grouped by close relatives, companion choices, and similar care.
