Nymphoides Aquatica 'Banana'

Banana plant

The genus name 'Nymphoides' refers to the similarities with the water lily, 'Nymphaea'.

The Nymphoides Aquatica is an aquatic plant that can be found in various parts of America. Especially in lakes, swamps and rivers with a slow current. The roots are submerged in the mud and the heart-shaped leaves grow to the water surface. The leaf is green on top and the underside is usually a wine-red to purple color. The Nymphoides Aquatica has a small flower, with five white petals, on the water surface when in bloom.

It will come as no surprise that this unique but easy plant gets its nickname "Banana Plant" from the shape of its roots. The Nymphoides Aquatica uses its roots to store nutrients.

It is possible to let the Nymphoides Aquatica float in the aquarium, liquid plant food is a requirement. The plant will get 'normal' roots that will search for a bottom to root in.

If you don't want to make it too difficult for yourself, you can also choose to plant the Nymphoides Aquatica. The largest root of the 'bunch of bananas' should be placed for a maximum of 1/3 in the nutrient soil, this is to prevent the banana-shaped roots from rotting. Please note that the roots may not be damaged during placement. Eventually, normal roots will grow on the plant, with which it will secure itself in the soil.

If you only have gravel or sand, we recommend that you place plant food in tablet form in the soil under the Nymphoides Aquatica.

The Nymphoides Aquatica does not naturally need much light, but grows best when it gets a lot of light. When the conditions in your aquarium are optimal, CO2 can contribute to this, there is a chance that the Nymphoides Aquatica will flower regularly.

Place in the aquarium: middle zone
Max height of the plant: 15 cm
Temperature: 15-28ºC
pH: 6.5 - 7.5
KH: 5 - 12
Light: normal to high
Origin: America