Broadleaf watermilfoil (Myriophyllum heterophyllum) care guide

Group
Plants
Other names
Broadleaf watermilfoil, Twoleaf watermilfoil, Variable-leaf watermilfoil
Family
Haloragaceae (water milfoil family)
Origin
Eastern USA and Canada
Water
freshwater
Temperature
6–26°C
pH
6–7.5
Hardness
2–15 dGH
Care level
beginner
Lighting
Medium to high light; CO2 helpful

Care

Legal note: this plant may not be sold on Aquatic-Auctions to buyers in Great Britain. It is on the GB list of invasive species (check GOV.UK for the current rules). Broadleaf watermilfoil is a North American milfoil that grows fast and forms dense mats just below the surface, cutting off light and oxygen for other life. Water milfoils (Myriophyllum) are submerged aquatic plants with long stems and whorls of finely divided, feather-like leaves; Australia is the centre of diversity for the genus. It has naturalised in Europe and has been on the EU list of invasive alien species of Union concern since 2017. It is also invasive in parts of the USA outside its native range. It is a temperate plant and suits coldwater tanks and ponds better than tropical aquariums. Water figures are our estimate, not from the sources. Never release it or put trimmings in drains or waterways. Sources: Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myriophyllumheterophyllum); Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myriophyllum); Wikipedia, List of freshwater aquarium plant species. Checked October 2026.

Breeding

Take stem cuttings and replant them; broken pieces root readily.

Compatibility and tank mates

Best in unheated or coldwater tanks and ponds with temperate fish such as minnows, sticklebacks or small goldfish; large goldfish and koi may eat or uproot it. It suits tropical tanks poorly over the long term.

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

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