Hygrophila pinnatifida
Hygrophila pinnatifida
Also known asPinnate hygrophila · Fern-leaf hygro · Brown hygrophila
Water parameters
Light and nutrients
Substrate type: inert ok. Propagation: lateral shoots, can attach to hardscape.
Substrate compatibility
| Substrate | pH effect | Nutrient load |
|---|---|---|
| Wood and rock mounts (Hardscape mount) | varies | none |
| Aquasoil (ADA Amazonia) | lowers pH | very high |
| Mineralized clay substrate (Seachem Fluorite) | neutral / inert | moderate |
| Inert sand (Pool filter sand) | neutral / inert | none |
With fish
Origin and habitat
Native to India, found growing attached to rocks in fast-flowing streams and rivers, particularly in the Western Ghats region. The species (Hygrophila pinnatifida) is unusual among aquarium plants for its deeply lobed, fern-like leaves and its ability to grow both rooted in substrate and attached to hardscape like an epiphyte. The leaves are pinnately divided (hence 'pinnatifida'), 5–10 cm long, with brown-green upper surfaces and maroon-purple undersides. The plant grows by sending horizontal runners that creep along surfaces and produce new rosettes at each node. This growth habit allows it to climb over rocks and driftwood, creating a layered, naturalistic effect unique among aquarium stem plants. The species was introduced to the aquarium hobby in the 2000s from Indian collections and quickly gained recognition in international aquascaping competitions for its unique leaf shape and versatile growth habit. Tissue culture specimens are now widely available from major aquatic plant producers.
Care notes
Moderate care. Can be planted in substrate or attached to hardscape; the plant thrives in both positions, which is rare among aquarium plants. When planted in substrate, it produces a rosette with deeply lobed leaves and sends runners along the substrate surface. When attached to rocks or driftwood, it creeps across the surface and roots into crevices. Moderate to high light is recommended; under low light, the brown and maroon coloring fades to dull green and the lobes become less defined. CO2 improves growth and color but isn't strictly required. The distinctive leaf shape and bicolored surfaces (brown-green above, purple below) make it a visual standout in any planted tank. Growth rate is moderate. Trim runners that extend beyond the desired area; each trimmed section can be replanted or reattached elsewhere. Iron supplementation supports the reddish pigmentation on the leaf undersides. Temperature: 22–28°C. pH 6.0-7.5. Soft to moderately hard water. In aquascaping competitions, H. pinnatifida is used for its unique texture and ability to bridge the visual gap between foreground carpets and background stems by climbing over midground hardscape. One of the most distinctive aquarium plants available.