One of the most forgiving background stems in the hobby, growing fine under modest light and no CO2, though it holds fuller lower leaves under medium to bright light. It grows quickly and throws out many side shoots, so it needs regular topping to stay bushy and off the surface. Replant the cut tops and they root within a week or two.
In the wild
Native to Thailand and neighboring parts of Southeast Asia, where it grows in and along slow marshy water and seasonally flooded ground. In the wild and in open tanks it readily grows emersed above the waterline, producing broader blue-green leaves and small blue flowers.
Good to know
A member of the Acanthaceae, the same family as Water Wisteria. 'Siamensis' is an old trade name (once listed as Hygrophila siamensis) that is now treated as a variety of the widespread Hygrophila corymbosa. The 53B designation refers to Tropica's original clone catalog number.
Did you know
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.
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)