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Vallisneria — photograph (Wikimedia Commons; see site attributions)

Image: Wikimedia Commons — attribution available on this site.

Plant appearance can vary with lighting, nutrients, CO₂, and whether it is grown submerged or emersed.

easymedium lightNo CO2 neededfast growthrosette

Vallisneria

Vallisneria spiralis

Also: Eelgrass, Tape Grass

Vallisneria is a classic tall background plant with ribbon-like leaves that sweep across the water surface. It tolerates hard, alkaline water well, making it one of the few plants suited to African cichlid tanks. Spreads quickly via runners.

Livestock warningVallisneria is at moderate-to-high risk from herbivores and fin-nippers — check your fish list before buying.

Care at a glance

Difficultyeasy
Lightmedium
CO2Not needed
FertiliserNot essential
Growth ratefast
Max height100cm
Placementbackground
Min tank40L

Water parameters

Temperature15–30°C
pH6.5–8.5
Shrimp safeYes
Herbivore riskmoderate
Propagationrunners

Beginner guidance

Do not bury the crown. Plant individual runners in sand or fine gravel. Fast-spreading: thin runners regularly to prevent them from overtaking the tank. Good option for alkaline tap water setups.

Cautions

  • Will fill the tank surface if not trimmed, block light to other plants.

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