Aponogeton ulvaceus (Betta Plant or Water Hawthorn)

Aponogeton ulvaceus, also known as the Water Hawthorn, is a beautiful aquatic plant popular in freshwater aquariums and ponds due to its unique, floating, and highly ornamental leaves. Here's how to care for it:

Lighting

• Bright, indirect light is ideal. It can tolerate moderate lighting but will do best in a well-lit aquarium or pond.
• In aquariums, LED or fluorescent lights with a color temperature of around 6500K (similar to daylight) will work well.
• If grown outdoors, place it in a location with plenty of natural sunlight (but not too intense or direct).

Temperature

• Aponogeton ulvaceus thrives in moderate to warm temperatures between 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F).
• It can handle cooler temperatures, but growth may slow down.

Water Conditions

• pH: 6.5 to 7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is best (4–15 dGH).
• Make sure the water is clean and well-filtered to prevent any debris from settling around the plant.

Substrate

• In an aquarium, it does best in a fine gravel or nutrient-rich substrate.
• If planted in a pond, ensure the substrate is soft to allow the roots to anchor.

Water Depth

• It is commonly grown with its roots submerged but its leaves floating on the surface of the water. Ensure that the plant has ample room at the surface of the water for its leaves to spread out.

Fertilization

• Regular fertilization is important, especially in an aquarium with low-nutrient water.
• Use aquatic plant fertilizers rich in potassium and trace elements.
• You can also use root tabs placed near the base to provide nutrients for root growth.

Growth Pattern & Maintenance

• Aponogeton ulvaceus grows from a bulb, producing floating leaves and, occasionally, fragrant flowers.
• The plant tends to grow in cycles, with periods of rapid growth followed by dormancy. During dormancy, it may lose its leaves, but don’t be alarmed – this is normal.
• If it starts to become leggy or outgrows the space, trim back the leaves to maintain its shape and prevent overcrowding.
• It’s also a good idea to remove dead leaves to prevent them from decomposing and affecting water quality.

Common Issues

• Yellowing leaves: This can be a sign of nutrient deficiency (especially potassium), poor water conditions, or low light.
• Stagnant growth: If the plant isn't growing as expected, ensure it’s getting enough light, nutrients, and the right temperature.

With proper care, Aponogeton ulvaceus can make a striking addition to your aquatic setup, bringing texture and beauty to your tank or pond.