Myriophyllum tetrandrum

Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

Ideal for midground and background placement where its finely textured leaves can be fully appreciated. It looks stunning when planted in dense groups, creating a soft focal point. Regular trimming helps keep it compact and from shading out lower plants.

Botanical form

Stem

Characterized by its delicate, deeply divided, light green leaves arranged in whorls around the stem. This gives it a distinctly fluffy or feathery appearance that contrasts beautifully with solid-leafed plants. Under ideal conditions, it forms tight, bushy clusters.

Growth

Medium

Grows moderately to fast, depending strongly on lighting intensity and nutrient availability. With high light and CO2, it shoots up quickly towards the surface. Without these, it tends to grow slower and leggy.

Substrate

Low

Column fertilization

Recommended

Benefits greatly from consistent liquid fertilization, absorbing most needed elements through its leaves. A comprehensive fertilizer containing both macro and micro nutrients will prevent deficiencies. Regular dosing schedules yield the best coloration and leaf form.

Root fertilization

None

While mostly relying on water column nutrients, it still appreciates a good, fertile substrate. Providing root tabs can support healthy anchoring roots. Strong roots help the plant withstand water currents without becoming uprooted.

Trimming

Occasional

Regular pruning is necessary to maintain its shape and encourage lateral branching. Snip the top shoots and replant them to create a denser thicket. Always remove and discard the older, decaying lower portions of the stems.

Propagation

Cuttings

Propagation is straightforward via stem cuttings. Take a cutting of about 10-15 cm and plant it straight into the substrate. The cutting will root in a few days and begin producing new vertical growth.

Sensitivity

Moderate

Prone to melting if subjected to sudden changes in water chemistry or temperature. It dislikes being heavily shaded, which causes the lower leaves to quickly deteriorate. Certain liquid carbon supplements should be used with caution as they might damage its fine structure.

Layout role

Midground, Background

Excellent for adding fine texture and a bright green splash to the aquascape. Its bushy nature makes it perfect for softening hardscape edges or hiding technical equipment. It provides a beautiful contrast to darker greens and reds in a planted layout.