Cryptocoryne walkeri "legroi"

Geographical Origin and Habitat: This cultivar originates botanically from Sri Lanka, where the parent species Cryptocoryne walkeri inhabits shaded banks of forest streams and moist alluvial soils. The 'legroi' selection is named after the Dutch botanist Legro and has been isolated and stabilized in cultivation due to its exceptional purple-brown

Color & Texture: ation and compact leaf structure.

Taxonomy & Genetics: It belongs to the Araceae family, genus Cryptocoryne. It is considered a stable triploid variant or cultivar within the Cryptocoryne walkeri group. Genetically, its main feature is a slow rate of cell division, resulting in slow growth and a compact leaf density, as well as a high concentration of protective dark pigments.

Physical Structure: It develops a low, compact rosette, about 10-12 cm tall. The leaves are lanceolate to narrowly ovate, with sturdy petioles and leaves arranged densely around the crown. The root system is very robust, penetrating deeply into clay or sandy substrates to ensure stability and nutrient uptake.

Color & Texture: The leaves present a dark brown, bronze, or copper coloration on the upper side, often enriched by very intense red-violet or dark purple shades under high light. The underside is typically wine-red or purple. The leaf surface shows a slight roughness or fine bullation, with slightly wavy margins.

Lighting & CO2: Very tolerant regarding lighting. Under low light, it maintains green-brown shades and an upright habit, while under high light, it grows horizontally and exhibits its intense purple coloration. CO2 is not essential for survival but promotes more regular growth and sturdier leaves.

Nutrition & Substrate: It prefers a fertile, fine substrate. It is crucial to insert root tabs rich in iron and potassium to support growth and prevent leaf discoloration. Liquid fertilization in the

Water Chemistry: Highly adaptable to water hardness, tolerating KH values from 2 to 15 dKH and pH between 6.0 and 7.8. The ideal temperature is between 20°C and 28°C. Avoid sudden shifts in chemical parameters to prevent melting.

Space Management & Placement: Due to its small size, it is ideal for the foreground or midground transition of small and medium aquariums. It should be planted in small groups spaced 2-3 cm apart to allow the rosette to expand horizontally without choking neighboring plants.

Pruning: Maintenance is minimal. It consists of removing only the oldest or damaged leaves, cutting them close to the base of the rosette with sharp scissors. Avoid moving the plant once rooted.

Risks & Diseases: It is a hardy cultivar and resistant to Cryptocoryne melt. The main risk is light deprivation due to shading by fast-growing plants, which can cause loss of lower leaves and decay of the rosette.