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 Medium

Medium trimming needs.

PLANT OVERVIEW

About Tricolor Lotus

A beautiful bulb plant with leaves featuring green, red, and brown mottling.

Nymphaea micrantha is a stunning focal point plant. It stays relatively compact compared to Red Tiger Lotus if trimmed regularly.
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 placementMidground
Typical height6–16 in
Typical width8 in
Suggested minimum tank15 gal
Suggested tank height18 in+
LIGHT + CO₂

Energy demand

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

Where it feeds

Root feedingVery High
Water-column feedingLow
Overall fertilizer demandHigh
Iron demandModerate
MicronutrientsLow
WATER

Useful parameter range

Temperature72–82°F
pH6–7.5
GH2–12 dGH
KH2–10 dKH
PLANTING

How to plant it.

Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate

Leave half the bulb exposed.

GROWTH + PROPAGATION

What to expect after planting.

Propagation

Seeds/Runners

Acclimation

May go dormant.

COMMON PROBLEMS

What usually goes wrong.

Shades out other plants if allowed to reach surface.