Source: Wikimedia Commons
Red cabomba
AdvancedCabomba furcata
A cabomba with finely divided, fan-shaped leaves in threes, coloured red-brown to wine red. It is a different species from green Cabomba caroliniana and is told apart by its whorled leaves. Strong light and soft water are essential, so it suits experienced keepers.
About
Red cabomba (Cabomba furcata, Cabombaceae) is a perennial from tropical Central and South America, from Costa Rica to Bolivia, Brazil and Cuba's Isla de la Juventud, forming mats in slow, slightly acidic waters. It is also known as Cabomba piauhyensis. Stems grow about 40–100 cm; the submerged leaves are kidney-shaped to round in outline and split into up to about 60 thread-like segments, deep red-brown with wine-red undersides. It is a different species from the green Cabomba caroliniana widely sold in Japan as 'cabomba': C. caroliniana has opposite leaves (two per node), whereas C. furcata usually has three (up to six) in a whorl. At the surface it may produce narrow floating leaves and purple flowers, though rarely in aquaria. It is difficult: light matters most, and without enough the stems weaken and fall apart. A nutrient-rich substrate, trace elements with nitrate and phosphate, and CO2 improve growth dramatically. It is sold by specialist shops in Japan, though supply is irregular.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Red cabomba
The Red cabomba grows to Stems 40–100 cm long.
Temperature & humidity for the Red cabomba
The ideal temperature for the Red cabomba is 24〜30℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Tropical Central and South America (Costa Rica to Bolivia, Brazil, Cuba)
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
Stems 40–100 cm long
Temperature
24〜30℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Needs CO2 plus substrate and liquid fertiliser
Growing Tips
Lighting
Strong light matters most; without it stems weaken and fall apart.
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 speeds growth greatly. Use a rich substrate and dose trace elements with nitrate and phosphate; shortages darken leaves and stretch internodes.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 24–30°C; needs soft (KH 0–7°dKH), acidic water at pH 5–6.8.
Substrate & Attachment
Plant in a nutrient substrate; suits the background or midground as a red accent.
Trimming & Propagation
Replanting tops is easiest; left in place, the base resprouts from its top node.
Cautions
Not the same species as green cabomba. Never release plants into the wild; it has become invasive in some countries.
Red cabomba FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Red cabomba?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Red cabomba?
The ideal temperature for Red cabomba is 24〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Red cabomba get?
The mature size of Red cabomba is Stems 40–100 cm long. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Red cabomba?
Red cabomba: watering & fertilizer — Needs CO2 plus substrate and liquid fertiliser. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Red cabomba?
The price of Red cabomba 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. Japan's alien species list includes the related C. caroliniana (Priority Control), not this species, but it has become invasive in India, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and elsewhere. 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) / Ministry of the Environment: alien species list, plants (2nd ed.)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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