Chinese ivy, Japanese cress, Lyre-leaved bittercress
Family
Brassicaceae (cabbage family)
Origin
East Asia (Tropica describes it as a marsh plant from Japan)
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
50 cm
Temperature
15–25°C
pH
6.5–7
Care level
beginner
Lighting
Low light is enough; medium CO2 (about 6–14 mg/l) helps
Flow
Gentle
Care
Chinese ivy, or Japanese cress, is a marsh plant from East Asia that adapts well to life fully underwater. It belongs to the cabbage family. Its bright green, rounded leaves with gently ruffled edges sit along trailing stems, which often grow small aerial roots along their length. Plant it in groups of stems in the midground or background. Stems reach about 20–50 cm. It can also go into a garden pond for the summer. Tropica rates it easy, with low light needs and a medium CO2 demand. It is a cool-water plant: keep the temperature below about 28 °C, because warmer water makes the leaves smaller and the stems leggy. The Aquarium Wiki gives 15–25 °C and pH 6.5–7, which makes it a good choice for unheated or coolish tanks. Sources: Tropica (tropica.com/en/plants); The Aquarium Wiki (theaquariumwiki.com/wiki/Cardaminelyrata); Wikipedia, List of freshwater aquarium plant species. Checked October 2026.
Breeding
Take cuttings of the stems and replant them; side shoots can also be separated. The aerial roots that form along the stem help cuttings establish quickly.
Compatibility and tank mates
A soft-leaved plant that goldfish, large cichlids and other plant-eaters will happily eat. Fine with shrimp, snails and small peaceful fish. Suits coldwater and cool tropical tanks better than very warm ones.
Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.
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