Crinum Natans

Crinum Natans

Also known as the onion plant, it is native to rivers and streams in the tropical parts of Central and West Africa. When the plant is in bloom, beautiful white flowers protrude above the water.

The Crinum Natans is not demanding and only suitable for larger aquariums, because this plant needs a thick substrate (about 10cm) in which it can form its root system. In addition, the green leathery and wavy leaves can reach a length of about 150cm and the plant can spread to a width of about 30cm.

The leathery leaves of the Crinum Natans mean it will not be attacked by herbivorous fish, which also makes this plant very suitable for placing in your cichlid aquarium.

The bulb of the plant must protrude above the nutrient medium, this is to prevent it from rotting. The Crinum Natans does well in normal or moderate light, however, a lot of light will ensure that the leaf gets more beautiful wavy edges.

The Crinum Natans will form new small bulbs, you can leave these to create a fuller plant. You can also choose to loosen this new bulb and replant it, to propagate the plant in this way.

Under the right conditions this plant will flower and produce white flowers above the water surface of your aquarium.

Place in the aquarium: middle & back zone
Max length of leaves: 150 cm
Temperature: 15-30ºC
pH: 5.5-8.0
KH: 2-12
Light: normal - a lot
Origin: Africa
Dutch name: Onion plant