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Tonina fluviatilis
AdvancedTonina fluviatilis
Beautiful star-shaped whorled leaves from Brazil. Requires soft, acidic water — challenging conditions. Stunning star rosettes when conditions are met. A challenge for experts.
About
Tonina fluviatilis is a stem plant in the family Eriocaulaceae, native to nutrient-poor waters such as the Amazon basin in South America. It has a beautiful form, sending up fine, translucent bright-green leaves in whorled tiers, and is affectionately known simply as 'Tonina.' Cultivation is very demanding, requiring strong lighting, CO2 injection, and clean, nutrient-rich soft water. It strongly prefers low pH and low hardness in particular; high hardness readily causes poor growth or bleaching. Being sensitive to environmental change and prone to melting, it requires stable water quality and suits advanced hobbyists. It can be propagated by trimming and replanting. Grown in groups in the mid to background, its fresh bright green stands out.
Size of the Tonina fluviatilis
The Tonina fluviatilis grows to 10-30cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Tonina fluviatilis
The ideal temperature for the Tonina fluviatilis is 22〜26℃.
Basic Info
Origin
South America (Amazon basin)
Size
10-30cm
Temperature
22〜26℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Pressurized CO2 essential + liquid fert + soft water
Growing Tips
Water
Soft water pH 5.5-6.5 required. Melts in alkaline water
Lighting
High light is essential; growth stops when light is insufficient. Assume strong lighting and place it in the mid- to background.
CO2 & Fertilizer
Pressurized CO2 is essential, kept at a stable high concentration. Supply nutrients with liquid fertilizer while keeping the soft water clean.
Water Temperature & Quality
Aim for 22–26°C. It is sensitive to change and melts easily, so do small water changes and keep conditions stable.
Trimming & Propagation
Propagate by trimming and replanting. Grown in a group in the mid- to background, its bright green stands out.
Notes
RO water ideal. Tap water often too hard
Tonina fluviatilis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Tonina fluviatilis?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Tonina fluviatilis?
The ideal temperature for Tonina fluviatilis is 22〜26℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Tonina fluviatilis get?
The mature size of Tonina fluviatilis is 10-30cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Tonina fluviatilis?
Tonina fluviatilis: watering & fertilizer — Pressurized CO2 essential + liquid fert + soft water. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Tonina fluviatilis?
The price of Tonina fluviatilis varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 17, 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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