DIFFICULTY Easy

A forgiving choice for newer planted tanks.

LIGHT Moderate

Around 10 hours is a useful starting point.

CO₂ Optional

Injection is not normally necessary.

GROWTH Fast

High trimming needs.

PLANT OVERVIEW

About Vallisneria spiralis

A tall, grass-like background plant that spreads via runners.

Vallisneria is a classic background plant. It grows tall leaves that trail across the water surface and propagates quickly through runners.
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 height12–36 in
Typical width4 in
Suggested minimum tank10 gal
Suggested tank height38 in+
LIGHT + CO₂

Energy demand

Ideal lightModerate
Photoperiod range8–12 hr
Approx. PAR20–80
Injected CO₂Optional
CO₂ benefitLow
NUTRITION

Where it feeds

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

Useful parameter range

Temperature68–82°F
pH6.5–8
GH4–20 dGH
KH3–15 dKH
PLANTING

How to plant it.

Substrate: Sand or gravel

Do not bury the crown.

GROWTH + PROPAGATION

What to expect after planting.

Propagation

Runners

Acclimation

May melt initially.

COMMON PROBLEMS

What usually goes wrong.

Can overtake the tank.