Cryptocoryne undulata
Cryptocoryne undulata
Also known asWavy crypt · Undulate crypt
Water parameters
Light and nutrients
Substrate type: nutrient preferred. Propagation: runners.
Substrate compatibility
| Substrate | pH effect | Nutrient load |
|---|---|---|
| Aquasoil (ADA Amazonia) | lowers pH | very high |
| Mineralized clay substrate (Seachem Fluorite) | neutral / inert | moderate |
| Dirted tank (mineralized topsoil) (DIY soil substrate) | slightly acidic | very high |
| Inert sand (Pool filter sand) | neutral / inert | none |
With fish
Origin and habitat
Native to Sri Lanka, growing in streams and river margins in the island's wet and intermediate climate zones. The species (Cryptocoryne undulata) has medium-length leaves (10–20 cm) with distinctly wavy (undulate) margins and a brownish-green to olive coloring that shifts toward reddish-brown under stronger light. The leaf surface often shows a hammered or slightly crinkled texture that adds visual depth. Sometimes confused with C. wendtii because of similar size, color, and overlapping trade names, but C. undulata has more pronounced leaf undulation and a slightly different leaf shape (more elongated). Taxonomic boundaries between C. undulata, C. wendtii, and C. beckettii have been debated for decades, and many plants sold under one name may belong to another. A medium-sized Cryptocoryne suitable for midground planting.
Care notes
Easy care, very similar to C. wendtii and C. beckettii in requirements and behavior. Low to moderate light, no CO2 injection needed, pH 6.0-8.0, soft to moderately hard water. Root tabs or nutrient-rich substrate for healthy growth. The wavy leaf margins add textural interest that smooth-leaved plants don't provide, and the undulation catches light at varying angles for subtle visual movement even in still water. Growth is moderate once established. Under higher light, the brownish-red tones intensify and the undulation becomes more pronounced. Susceptible to the standard Cryptocoryne melt during changes in water parameters or transplantation; leave roots in substrate and allow 2-4 weeks for regrowth. Propagation by runners; daughter plants appear 5–10 cm from the parent over several weeks. A group of 3-5 plants fills a midground section over a few months. Temperature: 22–28°C. Compatible with all community fish; the tough leaves resist nibbling from all but dedicated herbivores. Often sold alongside C. wendtii under generic labels in aquarium stores. For most practical purposes, C. undulata and C. wendtii are interchangeable in terms of care and aquascaping use.