Aponogeton decaryi (Aponogeton decartyi) care guide

Group
Plants
Other names
Aponogeton decaryi
Family
Aponogetonaceae (cape-pondweed family)
Origin
Madagascar
Water
freshwater
Temperature
20–27°C
pH
6–7.5
Hardness
2–12 dGH (estimate)
Care level
expert
Lighting
Medium light; CO2 not needed but helps

Care

The usual spelling of this plant's name is Aponogeton decaryi; "decartyi" is a misspelling. It is a Madagascan Aponogeton named after the botanist Raymond Decary. We could not reach a fuller source for this page, so its aquarium needs are not well documented. Treat it like other Madagascan Aponogetons: a bulb plant for a nutrient-rich substrate, soft to medium water, medium light and a large tank. Aponogetons often pause after a season of growth and drop their leaves. If this happens, cut back water temperature or move the bulb to a cooler tank for a few weeks to two months; growth usually restarts. Water figures are our estimate, not from the sources. Sources: Wikipedia, List of freshwater aquarium plant species. Checked October 2026.

Breeding

Mostly sold as dry bulbs (tubers). Mature plants may produce seed after flowering; sow it on fine substrate under shallow water. Some forms can be divided at the rhizome.

Compatibility and tank mates

Snails and plant-eating fish (goldfish, large cichlids, silver dollars) may damage the soft leaves. Best with peaceful tropical community fish that do not dig up the bulb.

Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.

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