Source: Wikimedia Commons
Hygrophila Polysperma
BeginnerHygrophila polysperma
An extremely hardy and fast-growing stem plant. Perfect as a first plant for beginners. Grows in any condition.
Overview
Hygrophila polysperma is a stem plant in the family Acanthaceae native to India and Southeast Asia, widely recognized as one of the easiest aquatic plants in the hobby. It grows vigorously even under poor conditions — low light, no CO2, no supplemental fertilization — making it the definitive beginner's introduction to stem plant cultivation. Growth is extremely fast; without regular trimming stems will reach the water surface within weeks. Propagation is trivially simple: cut stems replanted in the substrate root and grow without fail. Leaf shape shifts from oval in emersed form to narrower in submersed growth. Its vigorous nitrogen uptake makes it valuable for cycling new tanks. However, its invasive potential has led to legal restrictions in the United States, Australia, and several other countries, where it has escaped into natural waterways.
Size of the Hygrophila Polysperma
The Hygrophila Polysperma grows to 20-50cm.
Basic Info
Origin
India and Southeast Asia
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
20-50cm
Temperature
18〜30℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Liquid fertilizer
Growing Tips
Lighting
One of the easiest aquarium plants, growing vigorously even in low light. No special lighting is needed.
CO2 & Fertilizer
Grows without CO2 or fertiliser. A small dose of liquid fertiliser is plenty; there is no need to feed heavily.
Water Temperature & Quality
Undemanding about water quality and grows even in poor conditions. In a newly set-up tank it also helps absorb nitrite.
Grooming
Grows fast, so regular trimming is essential
Trimming & Propagation
Simply replanting cut stems in the substrate multiplies it easily. Converting emersed-grown parent plants to submerged growth is also easy.
Cautions
It is so hardy that overgrowth is a concern. It is listed as an invasive species in many regions, so never release it into outdoor waterways.
Hygrophila Polysperma FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Hygrophila Polysperma?
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.
QHow large does Hygrophila Polysperma get?
The mature size of Hygrophila Polysperma is 20-50cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Hygrophila Polysperma?
Hygrophila Polysperma: watering & fertilizer — Liquid fertilizer. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Hygrophila Polysperma?
The price of Hygrophila Polysperma varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 25, 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
Domestic law: The second edition of the Ministry of the Environment / MAFF Invasive Alien Species List for ecosystem damage prevention (published 11 September 2026) lists Hygrophila polysperma as No. 185, a "control consideration" alien species (防除検討外来種). It is not a designated Invasive Alien Species, and growing or selling it is not legally restricted. Plants in cultivation are not subject to control, but do not discard them outdoors or let them escape with aquarium waste water or stem and leaf fragments (the list asks that listed species are never released into the wild).
Sources: Ministry of the Environment Designated Invasive Species List (Invasive Species Act) / CITES Appendix II listed plant taxa (family and genus level)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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