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Cryptocoryne Pontederiifolia
Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Araceae
📍 Sumatra, Indonesia
A medium-sized Cryptocoryne with broad, oval-to-heart-shaped leaves in a uniform bright green. The rounded leaf form is quite different from most Crypts and adds a distinctive look to the midground. Relatively fast-growing for a Crypt and more tolerant of harder water than many species. An underrated choice that pairs beautifully with more colourful plants like AR or Rotala.
Tank Mates
Peaceful algae grazers that won't damage plant leaves and help maintain tank cleanliness
Small, non-destructive shrimp that graze algae without harming delicate plant tissue
Excellent companion plant with contrasting narrow leaves that complement Cryptocoryne's broad foliage
Peaceful schooling fish that won't uproot or damage plants
Larger shrimp species that efficiently control algae without disturbing plant structure
Hardy companion plant with different leaf shape and growth pattern for visual interest
Common Diseases
Cryptocoryne Rot
Rapid melting of leaves, mushy stems, foul odor from substrate, plant collapse
Remove affected plant portions immediately, improve water circulation, reduce organic buildup, perform partial water changes, and ensure adequate substrate aeration
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing or pale leaves, stunted growth, leaf holes, loss of vibrant coloration
Dose all-in-one liquid fertilizer weekly, add root tabs to substrate, ensure adequate lighting, and maintain stable water parameters
Algae Overgrowth
Green or brown algae coating leaves, reduced photosynthesis, plant decline
Reduce lighting duration to 6-8 hours daily, increase water changes, add algae-eating fish or shrimp, and manually remove visible algae
Leaf Melt (Acclimation Stress)
Transparent or dissolving leaves shortly after planting, gradual plant deterioration
Maintain stable water parameters, ensure adequate lighting and nutrients, be patient as plant acclimates (2-4 weeks), and avoid major water changes during adjustment period
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Quick Facts
- co2
- Not required
- light
- Low to medium
- max size
- 15–25 cm (6–10 in) tall
- placement
- Midground
- substrate
- Nutrient-rich substrate preferred
- growth rate
- Medium
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0–7.5
- notes
- Broad rounded leaves contrast well with narrow or feathery stem plants.
- hardness
- 2–12 dGH
- temperature
- 162–180°F (72–82°C)