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Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae
BeginnerCryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae
A Cryptocoryne with long, strap-like, strongly hammered leaves that can exceed 50 cm, used as a background thicket. Native to hard limestone waters, it shows twisted leaves when short of calcium.
About
Cryptocoryne balansae is now treated as C. crispatula var. balansae, but because it was first described as the species C. balansae it is still sold under that name. It occurs in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and southern China (Guangxi), forming stands of strap-shaped leaves that trail in the current of calcium-rich rivers in limestone country. The leaves identify it: usually about 2 cm wide (1.5–4 cm), with a finely bullate 'hammered' surface, green to bronze. The similar var. flaccidifolia (often mis-sold as 'C. retrospiralis') has narrower 0.5–1.2 cm leaves that are smooth but often wavy-edged. In aquaria it can exceed 50 cm, suiting the background or tall tanks, and good light brings out the hammering. It likes hard water; calcium deficiency shows as twisted, deformed leaves. It spreads readily by underground runners beyond its allotted space, so cut runners back occasionally. It is a staple of specialist shops in Japan.
Size of the Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae
The Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae grows to Leaves 20–60 cm long; can exceed 50 cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae
The ideal temperature for the Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae is 20〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
South-east Asia (Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Guangxi in southern China)
Lifespan
Perennial; keeps spreading by runners
Size
Leaves 20–60 cm long; can exceed 50 cm
Temperature
20〜26℃
Watering & Fertilizer
CO2 optional; provide steady nutrients via water and substrate
Growing Tips
Lighting
Medium to high light; good light brings out the hammered texture.
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 improves growth but is not essential; it grows most lushly with ample nitrate, phosphate and iron.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 20–26°C. Prefers hard water (pH 6–9, KH 5–21°dH); calcium deficiency twists the leaves.
Substrate & Attachment
Plant in the substrate towards the back or in tall tanks, where the long leaves can trail.
Trimming & Propagation
Spreads by underground runners; cut stray runners through the substrate with a blade, or pull them up and replant near the parent.
Cautions
Sudden changes in light or water, or replanting, can trigger 'crypt melt'. If the rhizome survives, new leaves will follow, so leave it in place. Never release plants into the wild.
Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae?
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 Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae?
The ideal temperature for Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae is 20〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae get?
The mature size of Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae is Leaves 20–60 cm long; can exceed 50 cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae?
Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae: watering & fertilizer — CO2 optional; provide steady nutrients via water and substrate. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae?
The price of Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae 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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