Persicaria Kawagoeanum

Persicaria kawagoeanum

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Polygonaceae

📍 Japan

A rare and highly distinctive stem plant with tiny, deeply lobed, reddish leaves that give it the appearance of a miniature oak tree underwater. Extremely sought-after in high-tech planted tanks. Requires strong light, CO2, and micronutrient-rich fertilisation to display its best colouration.

Tank Mates

Amano Shrimp

Gentle algae grazers that won't damage delicate foliage and help maintain tank cleanliness

excellent

Red Cherry Shrimp

Small, non-destructive shrimp that graze algae without harming plant leaves

excellent

Neon Tetra

Peaceful schooling fish that won't uproot or damage the plant

good

Otocinclus

Algae-eating fish that are gentle on plants and help maintain water quality

excellent

Bucephalandra

Companion plant with similar high-tech requirements and aesthetic appeal

excellent

Rotala Rotundifolia

Complementary stem plant that thrives under identical lighting and CO2 conditions

excellent

Common Diseases

Nutrient Deficiency (Iron/Micronutrients)

Symptoms

Yellowing or pale leaves, stunted growth, loss of red coloration despite adequate light

Treatment

Increase frequency of liquid fertilizer dosing; use comprehensive all-in-one or separate micro solutions; test water parameters and adjust accordingly

Algae Overgrowth on Leaves

Symptoms

Green or brown algae coating foliage, reduced light penetration to leaves, plant appears dull

Treatment

Increase water circulation, reduce photoperiod slightly, manually remove algae, introduce algae-eating shrimp or fish, ensure adequate CO2 injection

Melting (Tissue Decay)

Symptoms

Leaves become translucent, mushy, or dissolve; plant appears to deteriorate rapidly after planting

Treatment

Ensure stable water parameters (pH 5.5–7.0, temperature 20–26°C), maintain consistent CO2 levels, improve water circulation, perform partial water changes; this is often a transition response that resolves in 2–4 weeks

Slow/Stunted Growth

Symptoms

Minimal new leaf development, small leaves, lack of vibrant coloration despite adequate light

Treatment

Verify CO2 injection is functioning properly (target 20–30 ppm), increase fertilizer dosing, ensure high-quality lighting (60+ PAR), check that water parameters remain stable and within range