Nomaphila siamensis

Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

This variety is excellent for the midground or background of the aquascape. Its leaves are slightly narrower than the standard species, allowing it to be planted in denser groupings without looking overly heavy. It forms excellent structural bushes when trimmed appropriately.

Botanical form

Stem

'Siamensis' features sturdy stems with long, lanceolate, bright green leaves that are slightly narrower and more pointed than the typical H. corymbosa. Under intense lighting, the leaves near the surface may take on a beautiful bronze or copper hue. The plant has a very strong, upright growth habit.

Growth

Medium

The growth rate is fast, especially when provided with strong light and a nutrient-rich environment. It quickly shoots up toward the surface and requires regular maintenance to keep its shape. While it can grow without CO2, the addition of injected carbon significantly boosts its growth speed and stem thickness.

Substrate

High

Nomaphila siamensis exhibits strong, vigorous growth when planted in a fertile substrate that provides abundant access to essential minerals. It develops thick, white roots that anchor deeply into the soil, drawing up the necessary nutrients to fuel its densely packed leaves and sturdy stems. A generously deep substrate layer of roughly 3 inches, preferably a nutrient-rich aquasoil, gives the roots the space they need to spread. Supplementing the substrate with root tabs is an effective way to keep the plant well-fed and vibrant over long periods.

Column fertilization

Recommended

Liquid fertilization is highly beneficial, as the plant readily absorbs nutrients through its leaves. Regular dosing of a complete fertilizer, paying special attention to potassium levels, will keep the foliage looking pristine. It is an excellent indicator plant for potassium deficiency.

Root fertilization

Recommended

It develops a very strong and extensive root system and appreciates a nutritious substrate. While it can survive in plain gravel if the water column is fertilized, providing root tabs or using aquasoil will lead to thicker, healthier stems. The roots also help to stabilize the substrate in the aquarium.

Trimming

Occasional

Regular trimming is necessary to prevent it from outgrowing the aquarium and to encourage a bushier shape. You can boldly cut the stems at the desired height; the remaining portion will usually produce two new shoots from the node just below the cut. Replanting the tops is a quick way to increase the size of the stand.

Propagation

Cuttings

Propagation is as simple as taking a stem cutting and pushing it into the substrate. Almost any healthy section of stem will quickly develop roots and grow. Because of its fast growth, a single plant can quickly be multiplied to fill a large area of the background.

Sensitivity

Moderate

This is an extremely hardy and adaptable plant, suitable for beginners and newly established tanks. It is not sensitive to typical fluctuations in water chemistry and can adapt to both hard and soft water. Its main vulnerability is simply a lack of macronutrients, particularly potassium.

Layout role

Midground, accent, Background

It serves perfectly as a dense, green background bush or a midground focal point in larger tanks. Its narrow leaves add a nice textural contrast when placed next to broader-leaved plants like Anubias or Echinodorus. It is also an excellent utility plant for absorbing excess nutrients during the startup phase of a tank.