Carnation tree coral (Dendronephthya sp.) care guide

Group
Corals
Other names
Carnation coral, Dendro, Strawberry coral
Family
Nephtheidae
Origin
Indo-Pacific and Red Sea, often on reef walls in strong currents
Water
saltwater
Temperature
22–26°C
pH
8.1–8.4
Hardness
dKH 8–12
Care level
expert
Reef safe
yes
Lighting
Not photosynthetic; low light only for viewing
Flow
Medium to strong, indirect

Care

Dendronephthya are the carnation tree corals: brightly coloured, non-photosynthetic soft corals with translucent, water-filled stalks and clusters of polyps, in reds, pinks, oranges, purples and white. They are beautiful but historically very hard to keep alive, because they need a constant supply of very fine food. LiveAquaria does not list Dendronephthya; the care below draws on its flower tree coral listing (Umbellulifera), which it describes as similar to Dendronephthya but easier to keep. Placement: in a shaded spot, with medium to strong indirect flow. These corals often do not open fully in direct current; flow bounced off the glass or rock works better. Water: about 22–26 °C, pH 8.1–8.4, dKH 8–12, with iodine and trace elements. It is suited only to experienced keepers, ideally in a dedicated non-photosynthetic system. Soft corals are not CITES-listed. Sources: LiveAquaria (liveaquaria.com/products/flower-tree-coral-red-orange-expert-only). Checked October 2026.

Diet

Non-photosynthetic: it needs feeding several times a day with very fine foods such as phytoplankton, rotifers, live baby brine shrimp or micro-plankton.

Breeding

Not routinely fragged, though it may drop small branches that settle and grow if well fed.

Compatibility and tank mates

Peaceful. Keep it away from stinging corals.

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

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