DIFFICULTY Moderate

Benefits from more deliberate care.

LIGHT Moderate

Around 10 hours is a useful starting point.

CO₂ Recommended

Can grow without it, but responds noticeably to supplementation.

GROWTH Slow

Low trimming needs.

PLANT OVERVIEW

About Crinum Calamistratum

A unique bulb plant with dark green, highly crinkled, tentacle-like leaves.

Crinum calamistratum is a very slow-growing but incredibly striking centerpiece plant. It requires patience and a mature tank.
Shrimp friendly Low-tech suitable High-tech suitable
CARE PROFILE

What this plant needs.

The useful numbers and practical notes, grouped around how you actually keep the plant.

TANK FIT

Placement + size

Primary placementBackground
Typical height16–40 in
Typical width10 in
Suggested minimum tank20 gal
Suggested tank height42 in+
LIGHT + CO₂

Energy demand

Ideal lightModerate
Photoperiod range8–12 hr
Approx. PAR20–80
Injected CO₂Recommended
CO₂ benefitModerate
NUTRITION

Where it feeds

Root feedingHigh
Water-column feedingLow
Overall fertilizer demandModerate
Iron demandLow
MicronutrientsLow
WATER

Useful parameter range

Temperature72–82°F
pH6–7.5
GH4–15 dGH
KH3–12 dKH
PLANTING

How to plant it.

Substrate: Sand or fine gravel

Leave bulb partially exposed.

GROWTH + PROPAGATION

What to expect after planting.

Propagation

Bulb division

Acclimation

Prone to melt if moved.

COMMON PROBLEMS

What usually goes wrong.

Leaves are prone to black beard algae.