Nymphoides thunbergiana

Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Midground

Best suited for the midground to background, depending on how tall it is allowed to grow. In open setups, it can be allowed to reach the surface to provide a canopy effect.

Botanical form

Rosette

It produces attractive, green, heart-shaped floating leaves. The submerged leaves, when present, are often smaller and more delicate than the surface ones. It features a fine, but extensive root system.

Growth

Medium

The growth rate is fast. Similar to other Nymphoides, it eagerly seeks the surface of the water, quickly sending up long stems that end in floating leaves.

Substrate

High

Column fertilization

Recommended

Liquid fertilizers support the fast growth rate and maintain the health of the leaves. Ensure adequate nitrogen and potassium are present to avoid yellowing of the older leaves.

Root fertilization

Required

Root fertilization encourages a strong base and more robust stem development. Providing root tabs periodically ensures the plant has enough energy to continuously produce surface leaves.

Trimming

Occasional

Frequent pruning is necessary if you wish to maintain it in a submerged form. Cut the stems that reach for the surface at the base. Removing too many leaves at once can stunt the plant temporarily.

Propagation

Division

Readily propagates through adventitious plantlets that form on the leaves or along the stems. These can be plucked off once roots are visible and planted directly into the substrate.

Sensitivity

Moderate

It is relatively adaptable to varying water parameters, though it prefers moderate to high lighting. It can be sensitive to sudden, large fluctuations in temperature or pH.

Layout role

Midground, accent

Useful for providing a canopy effect or creating a natural, swamp-like appearance. The shade it provides is excellent for reducing light intensity for plants like Anubias or Java Fern.