Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’ – Red-Green Aquarium Stem Plant
Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’ is a hardy freshwater aquarium stem plant known for its long narrow leaves and attractive red to bronze-green coloration. This fast-growing plant adds height, texture, and subtle color contrast to planted aquariums without requiring advanced care.
With proper lighting and steady nutrients, Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’ develops stronger reddish tones while maintaining the easy-care growth habit Hygrophila plants are known for. It is a great choice for background planting, community aquariums, shrimp tanks, and natural planted layouts.
Key Features
- Hardy aquarium stem plant with narrow leaves
- Red, bronze, and green coloration depending on lighting and nutrients
- Fast-growing plant for background placement
- Great for low-tech and high-tech planted aquariums
- Easy to trim and propagate from cuttings
- Safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful freshwater fish
Plant Information
- Scientific Name: Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’
- Common Name: Hygrophila Rubra
- Plant Type: Stem plant
- Care Level: Easy to moderate
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Placement: Midground to background
- Lighting: Medium to high for best color
- CO2: Not required; optional for fuller growth
- Temperature: 68–82°F
- pH Range: 6.0–7.5
Why Choose Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’?
Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’ is a great plant for aquarists who want a taller background plant with color, movement, and texture. Its narrow leaves create a soft, flowing appearance, while the red-bronze tones help break up solid green plant groups.
This plant is also useful for newer planted tank keepers because it grows quickly, adapts well, and can help absorb excess nutrients in the aquarium. Regular trimming encourages bushier growth and keeps the plant from shading smaller foreground plants.
How to Plant
Plant individual stems directly into aquarium substrate using aquascaping tweezers. Space stems slightly apart so light can reach the lower leaves and encourage fuller growth.
As the plant grows taller, trim the tops and replant healthy cuttings into the substrate. This helps create a denser group over time and keeps the plant shaped to your aquascape.
Best Uses in Aquariums
- Freshwater planted aquariums
- Background plant groups
- Midground color accents
- Community fish tanks
- Shrimp tanks
- Low-tech planted setups
- High-tech aquascapes with CO2 and stronger lighting
Care & Maintenance Tips
For stronger red and bronze coloration, provide medium to high lighting and a consistent nutrient routine. CO2 is optional, but it can improve growth density, leaf size, and overall plant health.
Trim regularly to maintain shape and prevent the lower stems from becoming shaded. Replant cuttings to create thicker groups or move the plant into new areas of the aquarium.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’ beginner-friendly?
Yes. It is a hardy stem plant that can grow well in many freshwater aquariums, making it a good choice for beginner to intermediate planted tank keepers.
Does Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’ need CO2?
No. CO2 is not required, but it can improve growth, fullness, and overall plant appearance.
How do I get stronger red color?
Provide medium to high lighting, steady fertilization, and good overall plant nutrition. Lower light may produce more green or bronze growth.
Where should I place this plant?
Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’ works best in the background or midground, depending on tank size and trimming routine.
How do I propagate Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’?
Trim healthy stem tops and replant them into the substrate. New roots will form from the cuttings.
Is this plant safe for shrimp and snails?
Yes. Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’ is safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful freshwater community fish.
How fast does it grow?
It is a fast-growing stem plant, especially under stronger lighting with regular nutrients.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Hygrophila angustifolia ‘Rubra’ is a hardy red-green stem plant for aquarists looking to add height, movement, and subtle color to freshwater planted aquariums. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or shop online for live aquarium plants, stem plants, shrimp, snails, freshwater fish, planted tank fertilizers, aquascaping tools, and aquarium supplies.
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