DIFFICULTY Easy–Moderate

A forgiving choice for newer planted tanks.

LIGHT High

Around 10 hours is a useful starting point.

CO₂ Recommended

Can grow without it, but responds noticeably to supplementation.

GROWTH Fast

High trimming needs.

PLANT OVERVIEW

About Hydrocotyle Tripartita

A fast-growing, creeping plant with clover-like leaves.

Hydrocotyle tripartita 'Japan' is highly versatile. It can be grown as a carpet, woven into hardscape, or used as a midground bush.
Shrimp friendly Nano suitable 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 placementForeground
Typical height2–6 in
Typical width6 in
Suggested minimum tank5 gal
Suggested tank height8 in+
LIGHT + CO₂

Energy demand

Ideal lightHigh
Photoperiod range8–12 hr
Approx. PAR30–100
Injected CO₂Recommended
CO₂ benefitHigh
NUTRITION

Where it feeds

Root feedingModerate
Water-column feedingModerate
Overall fertilizer demandHigh
Iron demandModerate
MicronutrientsModerate
WATER

Useful parameter range

Temperature68–82°F
pH6–7.5
GH2–12 dGH
KH2–10 dKH
PLANTING

How to plant it.

Substrate: Fine substrate
Hardscape: Can be attached to rock or wood.

Plant in small clumps or weave into wood.

GROWTH + PROPAGATION

What to expect after planting.

Propagation

Runners

Acclimation

Adapts quickly.

COMMON PROBLEMS

What usually goes wrong.

Can become invasive and tangle with other plants.