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Cryptocoryne undulata
BeginnerCryptocoryne undulata
A Sri Lankan Cryptocoryne with brown, slightly wavy and sometimes marbled leaves. It grows without fertiliser in low light, and the more light and nutrients it gets, the lower and denser it becomes. A broad-leaved triploid form is also traded.
About
Cryptocoryne undulata is an aroid from the central highlands of Sri Lanka around Kandy, growing both emersed and submerged in rivers and streams. A member of the C. wendtii (C. beckettii) group, it has long been known in aquaria. Brown, slightly wavy and sometimes marbled leaves identify it. It grows without fertiliser in low light, but then grows slowly and tall; in nutrient-rich substrate and strong light it grows much faster and stays smaller, and runner offsets can build a large mass within a few months. Tropica's 'Broad Leaf' is a triploid form with wider, attractively flecked leaves that grows larger, 15–30 cm. Note that the old name C. willisii Engler ex Baum (1909) is a synonym of this species, but it is a different plant from the hybrid complex Cryptocoryne × willisii Reitz, so take care not to confuse the names. Potted plants are sold in Japanese specialist shops.
Size of the Cryptocoryne undulata
The Cryptocoryne undulata grows to 15–30 cm tall ('Broad Leaf'); varies strongly with conditions.
Temperature & humidity for the Cryptocoryne undulata
The ideal temperature for the Cryptocoryne undulata is 22〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Sri Lanka (central highlands around Kandy)
Lifespan
Perennial; keeps spreading by offsets
Size
15–30 cm tall ('Broad Leaf'); varies strongly with conditions
Temperature
22〜26℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Grows without fertiliser or CO2
Growing Tips
Lighting
Grows in low light; stronger light keeps it lower and tighter.
CO2 & Fertilizer
No CO2 needed; a rich substrate speeds growth.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 22–26°C; grows at pH 5–8.
Substrate & Attachment
It grows compactly, so plant small portions a few centimetres apart.
Trimming & Propagation
Separate offsets near the parent and replant; once rooted they grow fairly quickly.
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 undulata FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Cryptocoryne undulata?
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 undulata?
The ideal temperature for Cryptocoryne undulata is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Cryptocoryne undulata get?
The mature size of Cryptocoryne undulata is 15–30 cm tall ('Broad Leaf'); varies strongly with conditions. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Cryptocoryne undulata?
Cryptocoryne undulata: watering & fertilizer — Grows without fertiliser or CO2. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Cryptocoryne undulata?
The price of Cryptocoryne undulata 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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