Cryptocoryne wendtii, lat. Cryptocoryne wendtii- Cryptocoryne wendtii distribution
Family: Araceae;
Genus: Cryptocoryne;
Species and synonyms: Cryptocoryne wendtii (Cryptocoryne wendtii, Wendt's Water Trumpet).
GBIF:
Cryptocoryne wendtii (lat. Cryptocoryne wendtii) is a species of herbaceous aquatic plant from the family Araceae. One of the most popular and widespread aquarium plants, valued for its hardiness, attractive appearance, and wide range of color variations.
Distribution. The plant originates from the island of Sri Lanka, where it grows along the banks of streams and rivers, in marshy areas, partially or fully submerged during the rainy season. Named after the German hobbyist botanist Albert Wendt, the compiler of the well-known collection "Aquarium Plants in Descriptions and Illustrations."
Care requirements. Cryptocoryne wendtii is considered one of the most undemanding aquarium plants, making it an ideal choice for beginners. Optimal water parameters: temperature 24–28°C (tolerates short-term drops to 20–22°C), pH 6.0–8.0, hardness 6–15 dGH. It adapts well to various conditions and grows evenly throughout the year. With sudden changes in conditions, "Cryptocoryne rot" may occur — leaf decomposition, but once parameters stabilize, the plant quickly recovers.
Lighting. Cryptocoryne wendtii is undemanding regarding lighting and thrives even in the shade of other tall plants. Under bright light, the bushes become more compact, and leaf coloration may become more contrasting. The recommended photoperiod is at least 12 hours.
Planting and care. Cryptocoryne wendtii is planted in the substrate as individual clumps. The substrate should be nutritious and well-silted, with a layer of at least 5 cm, as the plant has a powerful root system. Coarse river sand mixed with fine gravel or a specialized nutrient substrate is best. The plant requires regular fertilization (especially micronutrients) to maintain bright coloration. Weekly water changes of 20% are recommended.
Propagation. Cryptocoryne wendtii is easily propagated vegetatively — by dividing the rhizome and root offshoots. Daughter plants are separated from the creeping runner and planted elsewhere. It is important that the young plant has at least 2–3 leaves. In the wild, it also reproduces by seeds. It can be grown in paludariums and greenhouses, where it grows faster and may flower.
Varieties. Cryptocoryne wendtii has numerous color variations and forms, the most popular of which are:
* **Cryptocoryne wendtii «Green»** — green form with leaves up to 15 cm, ideal for small aquariums.
* **Cryptocoryne wendtii «Brown»** — brown form with olive or brownish-pink leaves, forming dense thickets 10–30 cm tall.
* **Cryptocoryne wendtii «Tropica»** — one of the easiest forms to maintain, with large wavy bronze leaves, resistant to "Cryptocoryne rot."
Use in aquascaping. Due to the variety of sizes and colors, Cryptocoryne wendtii is used for decorating the foreground, midground, and background. Taller forms create a beautiful "living" wall along the back wall, helping to hide equipment. The rosette growth form provides contrast with bushy plants. This is a long-lived plant that can adorn an aquarium for many years, gradually spreading into picturesque clumps.