Hygrophila Corymbosa

Hygrophila corymbosa

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Acanthaceae

📍 Southeast Asia

Hygrophila corymbosa (Temple Plant or Giant Hygrophila) is a fast-growing, robust stem plant with broad, lance-shaped leaves that can reach impressive size in large tanks. It is exceptionally easy to grow and tolerates a wide range of conditions, making it a staple background plant for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. Its vigorous growth is useful for nutrient export in new or high-bioload tanks.

Tank Mates

Otocinclus

Peaceful algae-eaters that won't damage plant leaves and help maintain tank cleanliness

excellent

Neon Tetra

Small, peaceful schooling fish that thrive in planted tanks and provide visual contrast

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Excellent algae control without damaging plant tissue; adds biological diversity

excellent

Dwarf Gourami

Peaceful mid-water swimmers that appreciate dense plant cover for shelter and breeding

good

Java Fern

Excellent companion plant; similar care requirements and creates layered aquascaping

excellent

Common Diseases

Nutrient Deficiency

Symptoms

Yellowing or pale leaves, stunted growth, leaf holes or transparent patches, particularly in older leaves

Treatment

Increase fertilizer dosing (liquid all-in-one or macronutrient supplements); check lighting intensity; consider adding root tabs for substrate nutrients; perform 25-30% water changes weekly

Algae Overgrowth (on leaves)

Symptoms

Green, brown, or black algae coating leaf surfaces; reduced photosynthesis; plant appears dull

Treatment

Reduce light duration to 8-10 hours daily; increase water changes; add algae-eating fish (Otocinclus, Siamese Algae Eater) or shrimp; manually remove affected leaves; improve water circulation

Melting (Decay)

Symptoms

Leaves become translucent, mushy, or dissolve; stems rot; foul odor from substrate

Treatment

Improve water quality with 50% water change; increase aeration and circulation; remove decaying plant matter immediately; check for ammonia/nitrite spikes; reduce fertilizer if over-dosing; ensure adequate lighting

Slow Growth

Symptoms

Minimal new leaf development, small leaves, pale coloration despite adequate light

Treatment

Increase light to 8-10 hours daily; boost fertilization (especially nitrogen and iron); verify water temperature is 22-28°C; ensure pH is 6.0-8.0; perform regular water changes; check for hidden nutrient deficiencies