Source: Wikimedia Commons
African onion plant
BeginnerCrinum calamistratum
A Cameroonian aquatic plant that grows long, narrow, crinkled dark green ribbon leaves from a small bulb. Leaves reach 40–120 cm in aquaria and stream in the current. Slow but tough, and herbivorous fish leave it alone.
About
Crinum calamistratum (Amaryllidaceae) comes from western Cameroon near Kumba. It was collected in 1948 and described as a new species by Bogner and Heine in 1987. It reportedly grows in a seasonal river, though its habitat is poorly known. The leaves identify it: very narrow, dark green ribbons that crinkle as they grow, and the name calamistratum means 'curled'. Compared with other aquarium Crinum such as C. thaianum it has smaller bulbs and needs less light. Leaves reach 40–120 cm in aquaria and over 2 m in the wild, streaming in the current at the back of deep tanks. Its white flowers are showy but rare in aquaria. Growth is slow, and thriving plants form small offset bulbs that can be separated. It tolerates a wide range of water, including brackish water with low salt, and herbivorous fish do not eat it. It is sold by specialist shops in Japan, though not often.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the African onion plant
The African onion plant grows to Leaves 40–120 cm (over 2 m in the wild).
Temperature & humidity for the African onion plant
The ideal temperature for the African onion plant is 23〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Western Cameroon (near Kumba)
Lifespan
Perennial; long-lived from its bulb
Size
Leaves 40–120 cm (over 2 m in the wild)
Temperature
23〜26℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Little CO2 needed; root tabs help
Growing Tips
Lighting
Needs less light than other Crinum.
CO2 & Fertilizer
Needs little CO2. It feeds through its roots, so place root tabs near the bulb.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 23–26°C at pH 5.5–8; tolerates brackish water with low salt.
Substrate & Attachment
Plant the bulb in the substrate; its long leaves suit the back of deep tanks.
Trimming & Propagation
Slow-growing. Separate offset bulbs to propagate; cut leaves that sprawl across the surface at the base.
Cautions
Leaves reach around 1 m, so it is unsuitable for shallow tanks. Never release plants into the wild.
African onion plant FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for African onion plant?
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 African onion plant?
The ideal temperature for African onion plant is 23〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does African onion plant get?
The mature size of African onion plant is Leaves 40–120 cm (over 2 m in the wild). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize African onion plant?
African onion plant: watering & fertilizer — Little CO2 needed; root tabs help. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for African onion plant?
The price of African onion plant 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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