Aponogeton rigidifolius (Aponogeton rigidifolius) care guide

Group
Plants
Family
Aponogetonaceae (cape-pondweed family)
Origin
Sri Lanka
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
60 cm
Temperature
20–26°C
pH
6.5–7.8
Hardness
4–15 dGH (estimate)
Care level
intermediate
Lighting
Moderate light; CO2 not needed

Care

Aponogeton rigidifolius is a Sri Lankan Aponogeton from deep water over sandy soil. Unlike most Aponogetons it grows from a creeping, cylindrical rhizome rather than a round tuber. Its firm, almost leathery leaves stay underwater, 20–58 cm long and 2.5–4 cm wide, dark green to reddish, with flat or slightly wavy edges. It suits the midground or background. It needs moderate light and tropical temperatures, tolerates harder water than most Aponogetons, and is slow-growing but tough once settled. It rarely flowers in aquariums, needs no rest period and is not often available. Wikipedia says its leaves seem resistant to most fish and snails. Wikipedia gives wild conditions of about 20–25 °C and pH about 7.2; hardness is our estimate. Sources: Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aponogetonrigidifolius); Wikipedia, List of freshwater aquarium plant species. Checked October 2026.

Breeding

Divide the creeping rhizome, keeping leaves and roots on each piece.

Compatibility and tank mates

Leathery leaves appear resistant to most fish and snails. Tropical.

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

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