Source: Wikimedia Commons
Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa)
BeginnerHygrophila corymbosa
A large stem plant with long, broad, bright green opposite leaves. Fast-growing and bushier after trimming, it bears fragrant purple flowers when grown out of the water. Many forms such as 'Siamensis' exist.
About
Hygrophila corymbosa, the temple plant or giant hygro, is a stem plant of the Acanthaceae native to South-east and South Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia and India. Naturally it grows emergent at the water's edge, but it tolerates long periods fully submerged, and it is grown in tropical aquaria worldwide. Long, broad, bright green leaves without the deep lobes of water wisteria identify it. Allowed to grow out of the tank, it produces fragrant purple flowers and often drops its lower leaves. Many forms are traded, such as 'Siamensis', 'Stricta' and 'Compact', but most appear to be ecological variants, and leaf colour changes with light and iron. It grows fast and needs frequent pruning; cut stems branch and become bushier, and the tops root quickly when replanted. It absorbs ammonium and nitrate well and is said to help against algae. Potted and bunched plants are widely sold in Japan as a beginner staple.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa)
The Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa) grows to 20–30 cm tall or more.
Temperature & humidity for the Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa)
The ideal temperature for the Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa) is 24〜28℃.
Basic Info
Origin
South-east and South Asia (Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, India and others)
Lifespan
Perennial; maintained by cuttings
Size
20–30 cm tall or more
Temperature
24〜28℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Prefers nutrient-rich water and substrate
Growing Tips
Lighting
Tolerates low light but colours better in brighter light.
CO2 & Fertilizer
CO2 is optional but beneficial; iron levels affect leaf colour.
Water Temperature & Quality
Optimum 24–28°C; adapts to pH 5.5–7.5 and KH 2–18°dH.
Substrate & Attachment
Strip the lowest 5 cm of leaves and plant stems individually, spaced apart.
Trimming & Propagation
Fast-growing, so trim often; the cut tops root quickly when replanted.
Cautions
Lower leaves tend to drop once it grows above the surface. Never release plants into the wild.
Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa) FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa)?
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 Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa)?
The ideal temperature for Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa) is 24〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa) get?
The mature size of Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa) is 20–30 cm tall or more. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa)?
Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa): watering & fertilizer — Prefers nutrient-rich water and substrate. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa)?
The price of Temple plant (Hygrophila corymbosa) 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.
Primary sources
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. Its relative H. polysperma is on the Ministry of the Environment's alien species list, and this species should likewise be kept out of the wild. 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) / Ministry of the Environment: alien species list, plants (2nd ed.)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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