Source: Wikimedia Commons
Red Root Floater
BeginnerPhyllanthus fluitans
A floating plant with beautiful red roots and round leaves. Red roots floating on surface add accent.
About
Red Root Floater (Phyllanthus fluitans) is a floating aquatic plant in the family Phyllanthaceae, native to South America (Amazon River basin). While the small rounded leaf surface is green, under high-light conditions the leaves take on a reddish tint and the roots hanging below the water surface develop striking red to pink coloration, giving it a uniquely beautiful appearance. Its simple maintenance—simply floating on the water surface—is its great appeal, as a floating plant requiring no CO2 or substrate, easily enjoyed by beginners. Strong light is the key to color development, as insufficient light leaves both roots and leaves green. Its water purification properties (absorption of nitrates and phosphates) make it useful as a supplement for densely stocked tanks or water quality management. It also provides shelter for shrimp and small fish.
Temperature & humidity for the Red Root Floater
The ideal temperature for the Red Root Floater is 20〜28℃.
Optimal water temperature is 20–28°C, preferring slightly acidic to neutral water at pH 6–7.
Basic Info
Origin
South America (Amazon River basin)
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
Floating
Temperature
20〜28℃
Growing Tips
Lighting
Strong light is the key to red colouring; under high light the leaves redden and the roots turn red to pink. With too little light both stay green.
CO2 & Fertilizer
Needs neither CO2 nor substrate; it grows simply floating on the surface. It absorbs nitrate and phosphate, helping with water quality.
Water Temperature & Quality
A temperature of 20–28°C and slightly acidic to neutral water at pH 6–7 suit it. It also helps purify water in heavily stocked tanks.
Trimming & Propagation
It multiplies rapidly by division. Just split off plants and move them to another tank to propagate, and thin out any excess.
Notes
Overgrowth covers surface and blocks light
Red Root Floater FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Red Root Floater?
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 Red Root Floater?
The ideal temperature for Red Root Floater is 20〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the typical price for Red Root Floater?
The price of Red Root Floater varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: July 5, 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
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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