Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cryptocoryne × willisii
BeginnerCryptocoryne × willisii
A small Sri Lankan Cryptocoryne considered a natural hybrid complex. Plain mid-green, narrow leaves resemble C. parva but it is larger and more vigorous, spreading by runners into low fore- to midground stands.
About
Cryptocoryne × willisii covers many forms growing on riverbanks around Kandy in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, thought to be natural hybrids between the tiny C. parva and relatives such as C. walkeri and C. beckettii. Oblong-ovate to narrowly lanceolate, plain mid-green leaves identify it; it resembles C. parva but is usually larger (to 25 cm emersed, 20 cm submerged) and far more vigorous. Commonly grown forms include 'lucens', described by de Wit in 1962 as the species C. lucens (very narrow submerged leaves), and 'nevillii', long mistakenly called 'C. nevillii' (oblong to lanceolate leaves). Tropica's plant belongs to the latter, 7–20 cm tall with rosettes 7–15 cm wide. Little happens during the first month after planting, but then it produces plenty of runners and forms a dense group. Note that the old name C. willisii Engler ex Baum is a synonym of C. undulata and refers to a different plant. It is sold in Japanese specialist shops.
Size of the Cryptocoryne × willisii
The Cryptocoryne × willisii grows to 7–20 cm tall; rosettes 7–15 cm wide.
Temperature & humidity for the Cryptocoryne × willisii
The ideal temperature for the Cryptocoryne × willisii is 22〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Sri Lanka (central highlands around Kandy)
Lifespan
Perennial; keeps spreading by runners
Size
7–20 cm tall; rosettes 7–15 cm wide
Temperature
22〜28℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Grows without CO2
Growing Tips
Lighting
Grows in low light.
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 is not required; as undemanding as C. wendtii or C. beckettii.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 22–28°C; adapts to pH 4.5–8.
Substrate & Attachment
Plant in the fore- or midground; in tall tanks it can form a lawn-like ground cover.
Trimming & Propagation
Propagate from runners and basal offsets. In dense, tall stands the upright rhizomes can be cut back hard.
Cautions
Expect little change for about a month after planting. 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 × willisii FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Cryptocoryne × willisii?
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 × willisii?
The ideal temperature for Cryptocoryne × willisii is 22〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Cryptocoryne × willisii get?
The mature size of Cryptocoryne × willisii is 7–20 cm tall; rosettes 7–15 cm wide. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Cryptocoryne × willisii?
Cryptocoryne × willisii: watering & fertilizer — Grows without CO2. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Cryptocoryne × willisii?
The price of Cryptocoryne × willisii 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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