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Rosanervig Dwarf Hygrophila, lat. Hygrophila polysperma var. Rosanervig


Division: Magnoliophyta;
Family: Acanthaceae;
Genus: Hygrophila;
Species and synonyms: Rosanervig Dwarf Hygrophila (Hygrophila polysperma var. Rosanervig, Hygrophila polysperma «Rosanervis», Hygrophila «Reddish»).

GBIF: Hygrophila polysperma (Roxb.) T.Anderson

Rosanervig Dwarf Hygrophila (lat. Hygrophila polysperma var. Rosanervig) is a selectively bred cultivar of the species Hygrophila polysperma from the family Acanthaceae. A popular aquarium plant, characterized by striking white-pink leaf veins.

Origin. This cultivar was developed at the Tropica nursery (Denmark) and does not occur in nature. The unique leaf coloration is the result of a specific virus in the plant tissues that blocks chlorophyll production. The virus is harmless to other plant species and does not spread to them.

Care requirements. The plant is considered one of the easiest red aquarium plants to grow and adapts well to a wide range of conditions. Optimal water parameters: temperature 18–28°C, pH 5.0–8.0, hardness 2–15 dGH. Although the plant can grow under any lighting, bright lighting (from 0.7 W/L) and fertilizer application, especially iron, are required to display bright pink coloration and maintain contrasting veins. CO2 injection is not required but positively affects appearance and growth rates.

Planting and care. Rosanervig Dwarf Hygrophila is planted in the substrate in groups along the back wall or in the midground of large aquariums. It is best to plant in groups, 5–7 stems per hole, to create a lush bush. The substrate type and its nutritional value are not critical. The plant tolerates pruning well and with timely trimming actively branches, forming compact bushes. With insufficient light, internodes elongate greatly, the lower part of the stem becomes bare, and the coloration fades. Regular water changes are recommended to prevent sediment from settling on the leaves.

Propagation. Propagates vegetatively — by cuttings. Simply separate the upper part of the stem 5–10 cm long and plant it in the substrate. It can also propagate through side shoots.

Special features and use in aquascaping. It is distinguished by thin leaves 3–5 cm long with pronounced white-pink veins. Under bright light, the top leaves acquire a brownish-reddish tint. It looks great in contrast with green plant species. Suitable for paludariums and emersed cultivation. Not recommended for aquariums with herbivorous fish.