Skip to main content
Cabomba (Cabomba caroliniana)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Cabomba

Beginner

Cabomba caroliniana

A stem plant with beautiful delicate fan-shaped leaves. A longtime staple of goldfish tanks.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
18〜26℃
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
20-60cm
Watering
Liquid fertilizer

About

Cabomba caroliniana is a perennial aquatic plant in the family Cabombaceae, native to tropical and subtropical North and South America. Its submerged leaves are finely divided into fan-like segments with a feathery, graceful appearance; emersed growth produces small white to yellow flowers. In the aquarium it serves as a classic soft-textured background plant, long sold under the name 'fanwort' or 'Carolina fanwort,' and has historically been popular in goldfish tanks. Despite its delicate appearance, it requires attention to water quality — sensitivity to temperature fluctuations and mineral imbalances can cause rapid deterioration — and CO2 supplementation markedly improves growth consistency. Fast-growing stems require regular trimming. Cabomba caroliniana has become a serious invasive weed in Australia, where it has choked waterways after aquarium escapes, leading to legal restrictions on its importation and sale in several countries.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Basic Info

Origin

Tropical and subtropical North and South America

Lifespan

Perennial

Size

20-60cm

Temperature

18〜26℃

Watering & Fertilizer

Liquid fertilizer

Growing Tips

Lighting

Medium or higher lighting needed

Water Quality

Prefers slightly acidic to neutral water

Propagation

Easy to propagate by replanting cuttings

Notes

May melt in high temperature or strong alkaline

CabombaFan leavesGoldfish tankClassic

Cabomba FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Cabomba?
A

Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.

QWhat is the ideal temperature for Cabomba?
A

The ideal temperature for Cabomba is 18〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Cabomba?
A

The average lifespan of Cabomba is Perennial. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Cabomba get?
A

The mature size of Cabomba is 20-60cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Cabomba?
A

Cabomba: watering & fertilizer — Liquid fertilizer. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Cabomba?
A

The price of Cabomba varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: June 24, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Cabomba caroliniana A.Gray

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Domestic law: 特定外来生物には未指定だが、環境省の旧「要注意外来生物」(現・生態系被害防止外来種リスト)に掲載。野外への遺棄・放流は厳禁。

Sources: 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧(外来生物法) / 国立環境研究所 侵入生物DB: ハゴロモモ(要注意外来生物) / CITES Appendix II 植物掲載分類群(科・属レベル)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

Related Articles

Beginner-Friendly Aquatic Plants Without CO2 Supplementation | Cultivation Conditions and Tank Layout Strategies

You can create a beautiful aquarium without expensive CO2 equipment. This guide explains practical methods for selecting CO2-free aquatic plants that beginners can successfully grow, from cultivation conditions to tank layout strategies.

How to Cultivate Rotala and Bring Out Beautiful Red Color | Lighting, CO2, and Trimming Techniques to Achieve Vibrant Red

This guide explains the Rotala genus, popular in aquatic plant layouts, covering light intensity, CO2, and fertilizer management to bring out red coloration, as well as trimming techniques for maintaining beautiful, dense growth.

Rare Rhizophytic Aquatic Plants Beyond Anubias, Bucephalandra, and Willow Moss | The Appeal of Distinctive Varieties Such as Bolbitis

Beyond the standard rhizophytic aquatic plants Anubias, Bucephalandra, and Willow Moss, there are distinctive rhizophytic species such as Bolbitis. This article explores their appeal, cultivation tips, and how to incorporate them into your layout.

Tissue Culture Aquatic Plants vs. Standard Aquatic Plants: Pesticide Risk Comparison | Safe Aquatic Plant Selection for Shrimp Tanks

Comprehensive comparison of pesticide residue risks between tissue culture aquatic plants (TC plants) and standard aquatic plants. We explain why tissue culture plants are safe, the time required for pesticide removal in standard plants, and how to choose aquatic plants by category (foreground, midground, background) considering pesticide risks from a shrimp tank perspective.

View More Articles →

🩺 Common diseases