Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea'
BeginnerCryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea'
A form of the Sri Lankan Cryptocoryne walkeri, once treated as the species C. lutea. Its 8–12 cm leaves have finely wavy margins on the lower half. Both purple-red and green-brown plants are sold under the name.
About
Cryptocoryne 'Lutea' was described by A.H.G. Alston in 1931 as C. lutea; it was later found to fall within the variation of the Sri Lankan C. walkeri and is now a synonym of that species, though it is still often sold as 'lutea'. C. walkeri is a close relative of C. wendtii, C. beckettii and C. undulata, growing on Sri Lankan riverbanks, and has long been cultivated as an easy plant. Paffrath (1979) describes the submerged leaves of 'lutea' as 8–12 cm long and 2–3 cm wide, dark green above and reddish to green beneath, with a slightly rounded base, pointed tip, finely wavy margin on the lower half of the blade and a relatively long petiole. However, according to Wilstermann-Hildebrand & Hildebrand (2011), both deep purple-red plants and green-brown plants with striped markings are sold under the name, so the label alone does not guarantee the same plant. Check photos of leaf colour and shape when buying. As C. walkeri it grows about 10–25 cm tall and suits the midground. Potted plants are sold by specialist shops in Japan.
Size of the Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea'
The Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea' grows to 10–25 cm tall (as C. walkeri); blades 8–12 cm long.
Temperature & humidity for the Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea'
The ideal temperature for the Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea' is 22〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Sri Lanka
Lifespan
Perennial; keeps spreading by offsets
Size
10–25 cm tall (as C. walkeri); blades 8–12 cm long
Temperature
22〜26℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Grows without CO2
Growing Tips
Lighting
Adapts to low through high light.
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 is optional; substrate fertiliser helps.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 22–26°C; tolerates pH 5–8 and KH 1–18°dH.
Substrate & Attachment
Plant in the substrate.
Trimming & Propagation
Propagate from daughter plants on runners or the rhizome.
Cautions
Differently coloured plants are sold as 'lutea'. 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 walkeri 'Lutea' FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea'?
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 walkeri 'Lutea'?
The ideal temperature for Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea' is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea' get?
The mature size of Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea' is 10–25 cm tall (as C. walkeri); blades 8–12 cm long. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea'?
Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea': watering & fertilizer — Grows without CO2. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea'?
The price of Cryptocoryne walkeri 'Lutea' 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. No Cryptocoryne variety is registered in Japan's plant variety protection database (as of September 2026). 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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