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Barclaya Longifolia
Barclaya longifolia
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Nymphaeaceae
📍 Southeast Asia
An exotic relative of the water lily, Barclaya Longifolia produces spectacular long, wavy-edged leaves with olive-green upper surfaces and vivid burgundy-red undersides. It grows from a bulb and prefers to be undisturbed once planted. A dramatic focal plant for larger tanks, particularly in Nature Aquarium style compositions.
Tank Mates
Small, peaceful algae-eaters that won't damage delicate leaves and help maintain tank cleanliness
Gentle invertebrates that graze algae without harming plant tissue; ideal for planted tanks
Peaceful cichlid that won't uproot or damage the plant; prefers similar warm water parameters
Excellent companion plant with similar care requirements; creates layered aquascaping with contrasting leaf shapes
Compatible foreground/midground plant that thrives in identical water parameters and benefits from same fertilization
Small, non-aggressive schooling fish that won't disturb the plant or substrate
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale coloration, leaf holes or transparent patches
Increase fertilization with all-in-one liquid fertilizers or macronutrient supplements; ensure adequate CO2 and lighting; test water parameters
Algae Overgrowth
Green, brown, or black algae coating leaves; reduced light penetration; plant appears smothered
Reduce light duration to 8-10 hours daily; increase water changes; add algae-eating fish or shrimp; manually remove affected leaves if severe
Root Rot
Soft, blackened bulb; foul odor from substrate; leaf yellowing and wilting despite adequate nutrients
Improve substrate drainage and water circulation; reduce organic debris accumulation; consider replanting in fresh substrate; ensure adequate aeration
Leaf Melting
Rapid deterioration of leaves; transparent or dissolving leaf tissue; plant appears to shrink
Common during acclimatization; maintain stable water parameters; ensure adequate light and CO2; be patient as new leaves typically emerge within 2-4 weeks
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Quick Facts
- co2
- Beneficial
- light
- Medium–High
- placement
- Background–Focal
- tank size
- 30 gallons minimum
- growth rate
- Moderate
Water it likes
- ph
- 5.5–7.0
- hardness
- 1–10 dGH
- temperature
- 75–86°F (24–30°C)