Stem Plants

Stem plants are the backbone of most aquascaped aquariums, admired for their fast growth, vivid colors, and ability to create lush underwater forests. These aquarium stem plants are highly adaptable, available in shades of green, red, and bronze, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Stem aquatic plants are typically grown in bunches and are characterized by their tall, slender stems and small, delicate leaves. They improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients, reducing algae, and releasing oxygen that benefits fish and shrimp. Beyond their beauty, aquatic stem plants provide natural shelter and spawning areas for small freshwater fish, fry, and freshwater shrimp. Their easy propagation and wide range of shapes make them essential for any planted aquarium setup.

At Splashy Fish tropical fish store, besides freshwater fish for sale, freshwater shrimp for sale, our aquarium plants for sale are also grown at the highest quality to ensure the best products for our customers. Buy them online or at our aquarium store in Virginia to explore more!

Stem Plant Care Guide:

• Tank Size: A minimum of 10 gallons is recommended to allow adequate space for stem plants to grow tall and spread naturally.
• Water Parameters: Maintain a temperature of 72–82°F, pH between 6.5–7.5, and soft to moderately hard water for optimal growth.
• Lighting: Provide medium to high full-spectrum lighting for 8–10 hours daily to promote healthy growth and vibrant colors.
• Substrate: Use a nutrient-rich planted substrate or fine gravel with root tabs to support strong root development.
• Fertilization: Dose liquid fertilizers several times a week and add root tabs monthly; optional CO₂ injection boosts coloration and growth.
• Propagation: Simply trim the top of a healthy stem and replant it into the substrate; new roots will form within days for quick propagation.

Popular Stem Plants:

• Ludwigia Repens: A red-bronze beauty that adds bold color contrast to planted tanks.
• Rotala Rotundifolia: Fast-growing stems that shift from green to pink-red under bright light.
• Bacopa Caroliniana: Easy-care plant with round green leaves and a subtle bluish tint.
• Hygrophila Polysperma: Hardy and beginner-friendly; thrives in a variety of conditions.
• Cabomba Aquatica: Soft, feathery foliage ideal for background or midground planting.
• Ludwigia Arcuata: Fine orange-red leaves that add texture and depth under high light.
• Rotala Wallichii: Delicate pink-red tips and soft leaves, perfect for advanced aquascapes.

Stem Plant Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often should I fertilize my stem plants?

Most stem plants need liquid fertilizer 2–3 times a week and root tabs every 1–2 months. This routine provides essential nutrients to sustain their fast growth and vivid color. If your plants show pale or yellow leaves, consider increasing nutrient supplementation.

Why is my stem plant turning brown?

Browning leaves usually indicate low light, unstable parameters, or nutrient deficiencies (especially iron or potassium). Ensure consistent lighting, dose fertilizers regularly, and trim unhealthy leaves to stimulate new growth.

Do stem plants need CO2?

While CO₂ injection isn’t mandatory, it significantly enhances growth rate and coloration. Hardy green species thrive without CO₂, but red and pink aquarium stem plants like Rotala and Ludwigia achieve their best colors with added CO₂.