Banana lily, Banana floatingheart, Big floatingheart
Family
Menyanthaceae (bogbean family)
Origin
South-eastern USA, from Texas to Maryland; commonest in Florida
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
46 cm
Temperature
20–28°C
pH
6–7.5
Care level
beginner
Lighting
Medium to high light; CO2 not needed
Flow
Calm water
Care
The banana plant is a floating-heart from calm rivers and lakes of the south-eastern USA. It is named for the cluster of plump, banana-shaped roots at its base, which store food. Its rounded, notched leaves look like small water lily pads, green above and purplish below in strong light, paler in weak light. Lower leaves stand 15–46 cm tall. In the aquarium it is a popular foreground or midground curiosity. Do not bury the bananas: press the plant gently onto the substrate so only about a third of the roots are covered. It can also be left floating. In bright light it tends to send leaves to the surface; in shade it keeps more submerged leaves. Small white flowers may appear at the surface. Wikipedia suggests replacing stock every four or five years as plants age. Water figures are our estimate, not from the sources, apart from its liking for tropical temperatures. Sources: Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nymphoidesaquatica); Wikipedia, List of freshwater aquarium plant species. Checked October 2026.
Breeding
Cut a mature leaf and float it; roots and a new plantlet form at the leaf base, often with small bananas. It also spreads by runners and the rootstock can be divided.
Compatibility and tank mates
Snails, goldfish and plant-eating fish may nibble the leaves and roots. Fine with community fish and shrimp in tropical tanks.
Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.
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