Nymphoides ezannoi

Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

Typically placed in the background or midground where its long stems can reach towards the surface. It provides excellent surface coverage. Position it where its shade won't negatively impact light-demanding flora.

Botanical form

Rosette

An elegant floating-leaf plant with delicate, often fringed or textured leaf margins. The leaves sit gracefully on the water's surface, attached to slender submerged stems. Its root system is relatively fine.

Growth

Fast

The growth rate is fast under good conditions. It can quickly produce many lily-like floating leaves that cover the water surface. Regular maintenance is needed to prevent overgrowth.

Substrate

High

Column fertilization

Recommended

Liquid fertilizers help keep the foliage vibrant and prevent nutrient deficiencies in the rapidly growing stems. Iron is beneficial for the coloration of the new leaves. Potassium helps prevent holes in the older leaves.

Root fertilization

Required

A nutrient-rich substrate will encourage stronger, thicker stem growth. Root tabs can provide a necessary boost in older aquariums where the soil is depleted. It absorbs a large portion of its needs via its roots.

Trimming

Occasional

Requires frequent trimming of surface leaves to prevent it from completely shading the tank below. Cut the stems as close to the base as possible to avoid rotting stumps. Removing older leaves encourages fresh, vibrant new ones.

Propagation

Division

Easily propagated by taking cuttings of the stems that have adventitious roots or leaves. Simply snip the stem and replant the top portion into the substrate. The original base will often grow new shoots.

Sensitivity

Moderate

Relatively hardy but needs good light to prevent the lower portions of the stems from rotting. Sudden changes in water chemistry can lead to leaf melt. It prefers a gentle water flow.

Layout role

Midground, accent

Great for creating a lily pad effect at the surface, providing natural shade and cover for shy or surface-dwelling fish. It adds a natural, biotope-like feel to the upper levels of the aquarium.