Dwarf hygrophila (Hygrophila polysperma) care guide

Group
Plants
Other names
Dwarf hygro, Miramar weed, Indian swampweed, Oriental ludwigia, Hygrophila polysperma 'Rosanervig', Hygrophila polysperma 'White'
Family
Acanthaceae (acanthus family)
Origin
India, Bangladesh, China and Malaysia; introduced in Florida and Texas
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
40 cm
Temperature
20–28°C
pH
6–8
Hardness
2–20 dGH
Care level
beginner
Lighting
Low to high light; CO2 not needed but helps

Care

Never release this plant or dispose of it in drains or waterways; it is invasive in some countries. It is on the US Federal Noxious Weed List and illegal to import or sell in several US states. Dwarf hygro comes from India, Bangladesh, China and Malaysia and entered the aquarium trade in 1945 as "oriental ludwigia". It has small, oval, light green leaves on stems 25–40 cm tall; near the light the tips turn pink or orange, and leaf shape and colour vary with lighting. Tropica calls it one of the hardiest aquarium plants, ideal for beginners because it copes with almost any conditions. It is usually planted in groups at the back of the tank. It grows fast and branches a lot, so pinch out shoots regularly before it crowds and shades other plants. Added CO2 helps. Tropica also sells 'Rosanervig' (pink-veined leaves) and 'White' (variegated) forms. Water figures are our estimate, not from the sources. Sources: Tropica (tropica.com/en/plants); Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hygrophilapolysperma); Wikipedia, List of freshwater aquarium plant species. Checked October 2026.

Breeding

Very easy from cuttings. A single leaf left floating or lying on the substrate often grows roots and a new plantlet.

Compatibility and tank mates

Soft-leaved, so goldfish, large cichlids, silver dollars and some plant-eating snails will eat it; most community fish, shrimp and small snails leave it alone. Suits tropical community and shrimp tanks.

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

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