Source: Wikimedia Commons
Aponogeton ulvaceus
IntermediateAponogeton ulvaceus
A bulb plant from Madagascar that unfurls more than 40 translucent, pale green leaves with strongly waved margins. A single plant spreads about 50 cm wide, so it makes a centrepiece for large tanks. Some forms need a dormant period.
About
Aponogeton ulvaceus (Aponogetonaceae) occurs in central and northern Madagascar, permanently submerged in still or flowing water, in sun or part shade. Leaves rise from a conical, slightly hairy tuber about 3 cm across. They are pale green, translucent and strongly waved, 30–60 cm long and about 8 cm wide, turning reddish in strong light; the name refers to the sea lettuce Ulva. In good conditions one tuber produces over 40 leaves and the plant spreads about 50 cm wide, so it is best as a solitary centrepiece in a large tank. It forms no floating leaves and sends up one or more stalks of yellow flowers. Compared with A. crispus its leaves are broader, more translucent and more strongly waved. It is fairly tolerant, adapting to soft or hard water, and does even better with CO2. Several forms exist, some of which need a dormant period without leaves; keep the tuber rather than discarding it when it rests. It is sold as tubers by aquarium shops in Japan.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Aponogeton ulvaceus
The Aponogeton ulvaceus grows to Leaves 30–60 cm long; plant about 50 cm wide.
Temperature & humidity for the Aponogeton ulvaceus
The ideal temperature for the Aponogeton ulvaceus is 24〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Madagascar (central and northern)
Lifespan
Perennial; persists from its tuber
Size
Leaves 30–60 cm long; plant about 50 cm wide
Temperature
24〜28℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Rich substrate; grows better with CO2
Growing Tips
Lighting
Grows in medium to strong light; strong light gives the leaves a reddish tint.
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 is optional but helps; root tabs near the tuber are useful.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 24–28°C at pH 4.5–7.5; adapts to soft or hard water.
Substrate & Attachment
Plant the tuber shallowly with ample space; best as a solitary plant in large tanks.
Trimming & Propagation
Remove damaged leaves at the base. For forms that go dormant, keep the leafless tuber until it resprouts.
Cautions
It spreads about 50 cm, too large for small tanks. Never release plants into the wild.
Aponogeton ulvaceus FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Aponogeton ulvaceus?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Aponogeton ulvaceus?
The ideal temperature for Aponogeton ulvaceus is 24〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Aponogeton ulvaceus get?
The mature size of Aponogeton ulvaceus is Leaves 30–60 cm long; plant about 50 cm wide. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Aponogeton ulvaceus?
Aponogeton ulvaceus: watering & fertilizer — Rich substrate; grows better with CO2. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Aponogeton ulvaceus?
The price of Aponogeton ulvaceus varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in CITES (no match in Species+). Not regulated under Japan's Invasive Alien Species Act or Species Conservation Act. Never dump aquatic plants into rivers, ponds or ditches, or flush them away with tank water. Drain unwanted plants and trimmings and dispose of them as household waste.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing check) / Ministry of the Environment: list of Invasive Alien Species (Invasive Alien Species Act)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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