Explore 24 Cryptocoryne Varieties: Photos & Fast Facts for Each Type

Updated: July 29, 2025 - By: Lucas - Categories: Planted aquarium

Cryptocoryne plants—often called “crypts” by aquascaping enthusiasts—are among the most beloved species for planted aquariums, and for good reason. With their subtle elegance, varied textures, and earthy tones, crypts thrive in a wide range of setups, from low-tech tanks to lush aquascapes. Each species has its own personality, from the crinkled leaves of C. wendtii to the dramatic hues of C. flamingo.

In this guide, we explore over 24 stunning Cryptocoryne species, complete with images and care notes, to help you choose the right fit for your aquascape vision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hobbyist, these rooted beauties offer timeless appeal and dependable performance.

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Green’

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Green’
Position: Foreground to midground
Care level: Easy
Growth rate: Moderate
Height: 4 – 12 inches (10 – 30 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Green’ is a popular aquarium plant known for its vibrant, dark green, ruffled leaves that add a lush, natural look to aquascapes. Native to Sri Lanka, this hardy plant forms compact rosettes, typically reaching 6-8 inches in height, making it an excellent choice for foreground or midground placement. Its ability to thrive in low-light conditions and adapt to a wide range of water parameters makes it a favorite among beginners and experienced aquarists alike.

In aquariums, Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Green’ creates a dense, carpet-like effect when planted in groups, providing shelter for small fish and shrimp like Neocaridina. Its robust nature and subtle elegance make it ideal for low-tech setups, where it enhances the tank’s aesthetic without overpowering other plants. The plant’s slow growth and resistance to nibbling by most community tank inhabitants further solidify its role as a versatile, low-maintenance addition.

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Brown’

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Brown’
Position: Foreground to midground
Care level: Easy
Growth rate: Moderate
Height: 4 – 12 inches (10 – 30 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Brown’ stands out with its rich, shovel-shaped leaves that range from deep brown to reddish-brown, offering a warm, earthy aesthetic to planted tanks. Originating from Sri Lanka, this variety grows to a modest height of 5-10 inches, making it suitable for foreground or midground placement in aquascapes. Its distinctive coloration adds depth and contrast, especially when paired with green plants or driftwood.

This plant’s ability to adapt to various conditions, including low light and a broad pH range, makes it a reliable choice for community aquariums. When planted in small clusters around rocks or wood, Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Brown’ creates a striking focal point, enhancing the tank’s visual interest. Its hardy nature and compatibility with peaceful fish and shrimp make it a practical yet elegant option for aquarists seeking a bold, natural look.

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Tropica’

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Tropica’
Position: Foreground to midground
Care level: Easy
Growth rate: Moderate
Height: 4 – 6 inches (10 – 15 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Tropica’ is a medium-sized water trumpet celebrated for its dark, hammered-texture leaves that display a chocolate to rust-brown hue, creating a unique, bonsai-like appearance. Native to Sri Lanka, it grows up to 15 inches tall with rosettes 10-20 cm wide, making it ideal for midground placement in smaller tanks or as a focal point in nano aquariums. Its distinctive texture and color add sophistication to any layout.

In aquascapes, Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Tropica’ shines when planted in open spaces, where its leaves spread close to the substrate, creating a low, elegant profile. Its compatibility with peaceful tank mates, such as tetras and shrimp, and its ability to thrive in low to moderate lighting make it a versatile choice. This variety’s unique aesthetic and ease of integration make it a favorite for aquarists aiming for a refined, natural display.

Cryptocoryne Pink Flamingo

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Flamingo’
Position: Foreground to midground
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 2 – 4 inches (5 – 10 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne ‘Flamingo’, also known as Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Flamingo’ or ‘Pink Panther’, is a rare and highly sought-after cultivar prized for its vibrant pink, ruffled leaves that add a striking pop of color to aquariums. Originating from Sri Lanka as a cultivar of Cryptocoryne wendtii, this plant grows to about 3-4 inches tall, making it an ideal foreground or midground choice. Its unique, intense pink foliage, which can fade to a lighter pink over time, creates a bold contrast against green or red plants, making it a favorite for aquascapers seeking a distinctive, eye-catching element.

In planted tanks, Cryptocoryne ‘Flamingo’ excels as a focal point when placed in open areas, where its compact size and vivid coloration enhance the tank’s aesthetic appeal. It is compatible with peaceful tank mates like shrimp and small fish, such as tetras or Neocaridina, and its slow growth ensures it integrates seamlessly into community setups without overwhelming the layout. Despite its reputation for being challenging to establish, particularly in tissue culture form, its stunning pink leaves make it a rewarding addition for aquarists aiming for a vibrant, high-impact aquascape.

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Red’

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Red’
Position: Foreground to midground
Care level: Easy
Growth rate: Moderate
Height: 4 – 12 inches (10 – 30 cm)
Lighting: Medium to high
CO2: Recommended

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Red’ is a vibrant variety known for its reddish-brown to deep red leaves, which add a bold, eye-catching element to aquascapes. Hailing from Sri Lanka, this plant grows to 5-10 inches, making it perfect for foreground or midground placement in both small and large tanks. Its rich coloration, which intensifies under moderate to high lighting, creates a stunning contrast against green plants or light substrates.

In planted aquariums, Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Red’ forms dense clusters that provide shelter for small fish and invertebrates while enhancing the tank’s visual drama. Its hardy nature allows it to thrive in varied conditions, making it suitable for community tanks with peaceful species like guppies or rasboras. The plant’s striking red hues and compact growth make it a standout choice for aquarists seeking vibrant, low-maintenance beauty.

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Mi Oya’

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Mi Oya’
Position: Midground
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Fast
Height: 6 – 14 inches (15 – 35 cm)
Lighting: Medium to high
CO2: Recommended

Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Mi Oya’, named after the Mi Oya River in Sri Lanka, is a vigorous variety with reddish-brown, slightly bulbous leaves that feature a subtle hammered texture. Growing up to 20-35 cm tall, it serves as a bold midground accent in larger aquariums, where its warm tones and broad leaves create a striking contrast against green carpeting plants or rocks. Its fast growth and unique appearance make it a standout in aquascapes.

This plant’s robust nature and adaptability to a range of lighting and water conditions make it a favorite for community tanks. When planted as a solitary specimen or in small groups, Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Mi Oya’ adds a touch of elegance and warmth, complementing natural layouts with its rich coloration. Its compatibility with shrimp and small fish enhances its appeal for aquarists seeking both aesthetic and functional plants.

Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia
Position: Midground
Care level: Easy
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 6 – 12 inches (15 – 30 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia is a charming plant with light green, heart-shaped leaves that grow slowly, adding a soft, understated beauty to aquascapes. Native to Southeast Asia, it reaches heights of 10-20 cm and is ideal for midground placement, where its broad, arrowhead-like leaves create a gentle contrast without dominating the layout. A hint of red may appear on the leaf tops under good lighting, enhancing its visual appeal.

In aquariums, Cryptocoryne pontederifolia excels as a subtle accent, blending seamlessly with other plants like Anubias or Java Fern. Its slow growth and compatibility with peaceful fish and shrimp make it a low-maintenance choice for community tanks. The plant’s unique leaf shape and soft green tones bring a calming, natural vibe, making it perfect for aquarists aiming for a balanced, harmonious design.

Cryptocoryne undulata

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne undulata
Position: Midground
Care level: Easy
Growth rate: Moderate
Height: 6 – 12 inches (15 – 30 cm)
Lighting: Low to high
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne undulata is a resilient plant with distinctive wavy, reddish-brown leaves that add character and texture to aquascapes. Native to Sri Lanka, it grows to 10-20 cm tall and thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a versatile choice for midground or background placement. Its wavy foliage creates a dynamic, forest-like effect when planted in dense groups, especially under moderate lighting.

In planted tanks, Cryptocoryne undulata’s adaptability to shade and hard water makes it a favorite for low-tech setups, where it provides shelter for small fish and shrimp. Its reddish-brown leaves contrast beautifully with green plants or light substrates, adding depth and visual interest. This plant’s tough nature and unique wavy texture make it an excellent option for aquarists seeking a hardy, eye-catching addition to their aquascape.

Cryptocoryne parva

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne parva
Position: Foreground
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 1 – 2 inches (2 – 5 cm)
Lighting: Medium to high
CO2: Recommended

Cryptocoryne parva, the smallest of the Cryptocoryne species, is a delicate, slow-growing plant from Sri Lanka, known for its tiny, bright green leaves that form a dense, carpet-like foreground. Reaching only 3-6 cm in height, it is perfect for nano tanks or as an accent in larger aquariums, where its compact size adds a refined, miniature aesthetic without overwhelming the layout.

cryptocoryne-parva-1

In aquascapes, Cryptocoryne parva creates a lush, lawn-like effect when planted densely, offering a natural habitat for shrimp and small fish. Its subtle, bright green foliage contrasts well with taller or darker plants, enhancing the tank’s depth and balance. The plant’s slow growth and compatibility with low-light, low-tech setups make it an ideal choice for aquarists seeking a charming, low-maintenance foreground plant.

Cryptocoryne lucens

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne lucens
Position: Foreground
Care level: Easy
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 2 – 4 inches (5 – 10 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne lucens, also known as Cryptocoryne x willisii ‘Lucens’, is a compact aquatic plant prized for its slender, bright green leaves that form dense, grass-like clumps. Native to Sri Lanka, this small plant grows to about 2-4 inches tall, making it an ideal foreground or midground choice for aquariums, where its delicate foliage adds a lush, natural texture to layouts. Its ability to thrive in low-light conditions and its easy-care nature make it a favorite for beginners and seasoned aquarists alike.

In aquascapes, Cryptocoryne lucens excels at creating a carpet-like effect or framing hardscape elements like rocks and driftwood, enhancing the tank’s natural ambiance. Its upright, narrow leaves blend seamlessly with other plants like Anubias or Java Moss, offering a soft contrast in mixed layouts. Compatible with peaceful fish and shrimp, such as tetras and Neocaridina, this plant’s resilience and subtle beauty make it a versatile addition to both nano and larger community tanks.

Cryptocoryne willisii

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne willisii
Position: Foreground
Care level: Easy
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 2 – 6 inches (5 – 15 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne willisii, a hybrid of Cryptocoryne walkeri and Cryptocoryne beckettii, is a charming plant with lance-shaped, bright green leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. Originating from Sri Lanka, it reaches 4-8 inches in height, making it suitable for midground placement in aquariums, where its long, slender leaves add a distinctive, elegant touch. Its adaptability to various water conditions and low-maintenance requirements make it a popular choice for aquarists of all levels.

In planted tanks, Cryptocoryne willisii creates a lush, natural look when placed near stones or driftwood, where its flowing leaves contribute to a serene, forest-like aesthetic. It pairs well with taller Cryptocoryne species or contrasting plants like Dwarf Hairgrass, enhancing the tank’s depth and visual appeal. Safe for community setups with small fish and shrimp, its hardy nature and graceful form make it a reliable and attractive option for aquascapes.

Cryptocoryne crispatula ‘Balansae’

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne crispatula ‘Balansae’
Position: Background
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Moderate
Height: 12 – 24 inches (30 – 60 cm)
Lighting: Medium to high
CO2: Recommended

Cryptocoryne crispatula ‘Balansae’ is a striking plant known for its long, crinkled, strap-like leaves that can grow up to 50-60 cm, creating a flowing, curtain-like effect in the aquarium. Native to Southeast Asia, including Thailand and Vietnam, its bright green, fluted foliage makes it a standout choice for background placement in larger tanks, where it adds texture and dynamic movement. Its unique appearance and adaptability to hard, alkaline water set it apart from other Cryptocorynes.

In aquascapes, Cryptocoryne crispatula ‘Balansae’ is ideal for creating a dramatic backdrop, especially when planted densely to mimic a natural, riverine environment. Its tall, wavy leaves contrast beautifully with shorter plants or hardscape elements like rocks, enhancing the tank’s depth and visual interest. Compatible with peaceful tank mates like rasboras and shrimp, this plant’s bold structure makes it a favorite for aquarists seeking a high-impact, low-maintenance addition.

Cryptocoryne retrospiralis

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne retrospiralis
Position: Background
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Moderate
Height: 12 – 24 inches (30 – 60 cm)
Lighting: Low to high
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne retrospiralis is a unique species with long, slender, slightly twisted leaves that give it a distinctive, spiral-like appearance. Native to India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, it grows up to 30-50 cm tall, making it an excellent background plant for larger aquariums, where its graceful, flowing foliage adds a sense of elegance and movement. Its earthy green to bronze tones enhance its natural charm in aquascapes.

In planted tanks, Cryptocoryne retrospiralis creates a layered, dynamic look when paired with shorter plants like Cryptocoryne parva or mosses, contributing to a lush, jungle-like aesthetic. Its adaptability to a range of water conditions and compatibility with peaceful fish and shrimp make it suitable for community setups. The plant’s twisted leaves and tall growth make it a captivating choice for aquarists aiming for a natural, textured background.

Cryptocoryne crispatula ‘Tonkinensis’

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne crispatula ‘Tonkinensis’
Position: Background
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Moderate
Height: 10 – 20 inches (25 – 50 cm)
Lighting: Medium to high
CO2: Recommended

Cryptocoryne crispatula ‘Tonkinensis’ is a slender, grass-like plant with narrow, smooth leaves that range from green to brownish hues, depending on lighting conditions. Native to Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, it grows up to 30-50 cm, making it a versatile choice for background or midground placement in larger aquariums. Its soft, flowing foliage adds a delicate, natural flow to aquascapes, mimicking a riverbed environment.

In tanks, Cryptocoryne crispatula ‘Tonkinensis’ creates a splendid, curtain-like effect when planted in dense groups, enhancing the aquarium’s depth and movement. It pairs well with contrasting plants like Anubias or Java Fern, offering a soft backdrop that complements hardscape elements. Safe for peaceful fish and shrimp, its slow growth and graceful appearance make it a low-maintenance option for aquarists seeking a refined, natural aesthetic.

Cryptocoryne albida ‘Brown’

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne albida ‘Brown’
Position: Midground
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 6 – 12 inches (15 – 30 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne albida ‘Brown’ is a compact plant with narrow, wavy-edged leaves that display reddish-brown to bronze tones with dark, stripe-like patterns. Native to Southeast Asia, it grows to 5-15 cm, making it ideal for midground placement in aquariums, where its unique coloration and texture add a graceful, understated charm. Its ability to shift hues based on lighting creates a dynamic visual effect in aquascapes.

In planted tanks, Cryptocoryne albida ‘Brown’ blends effortlessly with green plants like Cryptocoryne wendtii or mosses, creating striking contrasts that enhance the tank’s visual appeal. Its small size and compatibility with peaceful tank mates, such as shrimp and small fish, make it a versatile choice for community setups. The plant’s delicate, multicolored leaves bring a touch of magic to layouts, perfect for aquarists seeking a compact, eye-catching addition.

Cryptocoryne beckettii ‘Petchii’

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne beckettii ‘Petchii’
Position: Foreground to midground
Care level: Easy
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 4 – 6 inches (10 – 15 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne beckettii ‘Petchii’ is a classic, low-maintenance plant with elongated, slightly wavy leaves that range from dark olive-brown to reddish-brown, often with a reddish underside. Originating from Sri Lanka, it grows to 10-15 cm, making it a perfect midground accent in aquariums, where its compact, bushy growth adds a cozy, natural vibe. Its hardiness and adaptability make it a go-to choice for beginners and experts alike.

In aquascapes, Cryptocoryne beckettii ‘Petchii’ shines when planted in clumps around hardscape or taller plants, creating a lush, inviting texture that complements species like Java Fern or Alternanthera. Its ability to grow as an epiphyte on rocks or driftwood adds versatility to layout designs. Safe for community tanks with peaceful fish and shrimp, its rich coloration and easy-care nature make it a timeless favorite for vibrant, low-tech setups.

Cryptocoryne walkeri ‘Lutea’

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne walkeri ‘Lutea’
Position: Midground
Care level: Easy
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 6 – 12 inches (15 – 30 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne walkeri ‘Lutea’, also known as Cryptocoryne lutea, is an attractive plant with bright green to bronzy, lance-shaped leaves that grow in a rigid, upright rosette. Native to Sri Lanka, it reaches 4-8 inches, making it a great midground or foreground plant in smaller tanks, where its vibrant foliage adds a fresh, elegant touch. Its robust nature and adaptability to various conditions make it ideal for aquarists of all skill levels.

In planted aquariums, Cryptocoryne walkeri ‘Lutea’ creates a striking contrast when paired with darker or red-toned plants, enhancing the tank’s depth and visual interest. Its stiff leaves and compact growth make it perfect for framing hardscape elements or filling midground spaces in community setups with shrimp and small fish. The plant’s bright, appealing appearance and low-maintenance requirements make it a versatile choice for natural, thriving aquascapes.

Cryptocoryne usteriana

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne usteriana
Position: Midground to background
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 12 – 24 inches (30 – 60 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne usteriana is a robust aquatic plant renowned for its large, broad leaves with prominent, intricate veining that adds a bold, textured look to aquariums. Native to the Philippines, it can grow up to 20-50 cm tall, making it an ideal choice for the background or midground of larger tanks, where its commanding presence creates a lush, jungle-like aesthetic. Its striking foliage and adaptability make it a favorite for aquarists aiming for dramatic, natural layouts.

In aquascapes, Cryptocoryne usteriana’s wide, green leaves with distinctive veins serve as a stunning focal point, especially when paired with smaller or contrasting plants like Anubias or Java Moss. Its ability to thrive in low to moderate lighting and its compatibility with peaceful fish and shrimp, such as tetras and Neocaridina, make it a versatile addition to community tanks. This plant’s grand scale and unique texture enhance the depth and elegance of larger aquarium setups.

Cryptocoryne moehlmannii

Scientific name: Cryptocoryne moehlmannii
Position: Foreground to midground
Care level: Easy
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 4 – 8 inches (10 – 20 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne moehlmannii is a compact, attractive plant with smooth, dark green leaves that form neat rosettes, adding a refined, understated beauty to aquariums. Native to Sumatra, it grows to about 10-20 cm tall, making it a perfect midground or foreground choice for smaller tanks or intricate planted setups. Its elegant, bushy appearance and hardiness make it a popular choice among aquarists seeking a balanced, natural look.

In aquascapes, Cryptocoryne moehlmannii shines when planted in clusters, creating a lush, carpet-like effect that complements hardscape elements like rocks or driftwood. Its compatibility with peaceful tank mates, such as shrimp and small fish, and its ability to adapt to various water conditions make it ideal for community tanks. The plant’s tidy growth and classic charm make it a reliable addition to both beginner and advanced planted setups.

Cryptocoryne cordata

Scientific name: Cryptocoryne cordata
Position: Midground
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 6 – 12 inches (15 – 30 cm)
Lighting: Low to high
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne cordata, including variants like ‘Rosanervig’, is celebrated for its heart-shaped leaves with striking white or pinkish veining that creates a visually captivating effect. Native to Southeast Asia, it grows to 10-30 cm, making it suitable for midground placement in aquariums, where its unique coloration adds a touch of elegance. The ‘Rosanervig’ variant, with its prominent white veins, is particularly prized for its decorative appeal in aquascapes.

In planted tanks, Cryptocoryne cordata’s vibrant veining and lush rosettes make it a standout accent, especially when paired with green plants like Cryptocoryne wendtii or mosses. Its compatibility with peaceful fish and shrimp, such as guppies or Neocaridina, ensures it thrives in community setups. The plant’s distinctive leaf patterns and moderate size bring a sophisticated, natural beauty to a variety of aquarium layouts.

Cryptocoryne nurii

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne nurii
Position: Midground
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 4 – 8 inches (10 – 20 cm)
Lighting: Medium to high
CO2: Recommended

Cryptocoryne nurii is a rare and exotic species with elongated, textured leaves that feature unique, intricate patterns and vibrant hues ranging from green to reddish-brown. Native to Malaysia, it grows to 10-20 cm, making it an excellent midground plant for aquariums seeking a distinctive, eye-catching element. Its uncommon coloration and detailed leaf patterns set it apart as a collector’s favorite in high-tech aquascapes.

In aquariums, Cryptocoryne nurii creates a bold, artistic focal point when planted in small groups, contrasting beautifully with plainer plants like Java Fern or Anubias. Its compatibility with peaceful tank mates, such as rasboras and shrimp, makes it suitable for community tanks. The plant’s rare beauty and intricate design make it a prized addition for aquarists looking to elevate their layouts with a touch of exclusivity.

Cryptocoryne hudoroi

Scientific name: Cryptocoryne hudoroi
Position: Midground to background
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 8 – 16 inches (20 – 40 cm)
Lighting: Medium to high
CO2: Recommended

Cryptocoryne hudoroi is a striking plant with rigid, lance-shaped leaves that display strong, prominent veining and a mix of green to bronze tones. Native to Indonesia, it grows to 20-40 cm, making it a superb background or midground choice for larger aquariums, where its robust structure adds a dramatic, textured presence. Its relative rarity and growing popularity among aquarists make it a sought-after species for modern aquascapes.

In planted tanks, Cryptocoryne hudoroi’s sturdy leaves and bold veining create a dynamic contrast when paired with softer or smaller plants like Cryptocoryne parva or mosses. Its compatibility with peaceful fish and shrimp, such as tetras and Neocaridina, ensures it integrates well into community setups. The plant’s commanding appearance and unique texture make it an exciting option for aquarists seeking a distinctive, high-impact addition.

Cryptocoryne affinis

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Scientific name: Cryptocoryne affinis
Position: Midground
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 6 – 12 inches (15 – 30 cm)
Lighting: Low to medium
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne affinis is a classic, time-tested species with long, narrow leaves that range from green to reddish-brown, often with a slightly metallic sheen. Native to Malaysia, it grows to 15-30 cm, making it a versatile midground or background plant for aquariums, where its elegant, upright growth adds a timeless, natural aesthetic. Its familiarity among seasoned aquarists underscores its enduring popularity in planted tank designs.

In aquascapes, Cryptocoryne affinis creates a refined, forest-like effect when planted in groups, complementing hardscape or contrasting plants like Java Moss or Ludwigia. Its compatibility with peaceful fish and shrimp, such as guppies or Neocaridina, ensures it thrives in community setups. The plant’s classic beauty and adaptable growth make it a reliable choice for aquarists aiming for a sophisticated, traditional layout.

Cryptocoryne pygmaea

Scientific name: Cryptocoryne pygmaea
Position: Foreground
Care level: Moderate
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 1 – 2 inches (2 – 5 cm)
Lighting: Medium to high
CO2: Optional

Cryptocoryne pygmaea is a diminutive species with tiny, dark green leaves that form a low, dense carpet, making it one of the smallest Cryptocorynes. Native to the Philippines, it grows to just 2-5 cm, perfect for foreground placement in nano or larger tanks, where its miniature size adds a refined, lawn-like aesthetic. Its slow growth and delicate appearance make it a favorite for detailed aquascapes.

In planted tanks, Cryptocoryne pygmaea creates a lush, ground-covering effect that enhances the tank’s depth when paired with taller plants like Cryptocoryne wendtii or rocks. Its compatibility with peaceful tank mates, such as shrimp and small fish, makes it ideal for community setups. The plant’s compact size and subtle charm make it an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a low-profile, natural foreground accent.