Hygrophila Siamensis is one of the most forgiving background stem plants in the hobby. It is a fast grower and a beginner plant.
Did you know
The whole Hygrophila corymbosa group is nicknamed the temple plant because it was historically grown in the ornamental ponds of Thai temples.
Caring for Hygrophila Siamensis
Strip the lower leaves and push the stems into the substrate in the background, a little apart. Keep the water at 68 to 86°F (20 to 30°C).
Hygrophila Siamensis grows fine under modest light with no CO2. It holds fuller lower leaves under medium to bright light. It feeds through both roots and leaves, so root tabs near its roots and a liquid fertilizer both help.
It grows quickly and throws out many side shoots. Top it regularly to keep it bushy and off the surface. Replant the cut tops, and they root within a week or two.
Good to know
Hygrophila Siamensis is a member of the Acanthaceae, the same family as water wisteria. Its name is an old trade name, once listed as Hygrophila siamensis. The plant is now treated as a variety of the widespread Hygrophila corymbosa. The 53B designation refers to Tropica's original clone catalog number. It is also sold as Thai Water Friend.
In the wild
Hygrophila Siamensis is native to Thailand and neighboring parts of Southeast Asia. It grows in and along slow, marshy water and on seasonally flooded ground. In the wild and in open tanks it readily grows emersed above the waterline, with broader blue-green leaves and small blue flowers.
Common questions
Is Hygrophila Siamensis a different species from Hygrophila corymbosa?
No. Hygrophila Siamensis is a form of Hygrophila corymbosa. It reaches about 15.7 in (40 cm), against 19.7 in (50 cm) for the species. It wants medium light, where the species wants low. It also differs in hardness, growth rate, pH and temperature.
Does Hygrophila Siamensis need to be planted in the substrate?
Yes. Strip the leaves from the lower part of each stem, then push the stems into the substrate one at a time, a little apart.
Does Hygrophila Siamensis need CO2?
No. Hygrophila Siamensis grows well without added CO2.
How much light does Hygrophila Siamensis need?
Hygrophila Siamensis wants medium light. A light sold for planted tanks covers it.
Does Hygrophila Siamensis need root tabs?
They help. Hygrophila Siamensis takes nutrients through both its roots and its leaves. Root tabs near its roots and a liquid fertilizer cover both.
How do you propagate Hygrophila Siamensis?
Hygrophila Siamensis propagates by cuttings and side shoots. Cut off the top of a stem and replant it, and the stump left behind grows new shoots. Cut a side shoot off once it has a few leaves and plant it on its own.
How tall does Hygrophila Siamensis grow?
Hygrophila Siamensis grows to about 15.7 in (40 cm) tall. It grows fast, so expect to trim it often.
Medium lightBackground15.7 in (40 cm)
Low lightBackground17.7 in (45 cm)
High lightBackground19.7 in (50 cm)
Medium lightBackground19.7 in (50 cm)
Medium lightBackground23.6 in (60 cm)
Medium lightMidground15.7 in (40 cm)