Green cabomba (Cabomba caroliniana) care guide

Group
Plants
Other names
Carolina fanwort, Fanwort, Fish grass, Washington grass, Common cabomba
Family
Cabombaceae (fanwort family)
Origin
South-eastern South America and the USA
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
150 cm
Care level
intermediate
Lighting
Medium to high light

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). Green cabomba or Carolina fanwort (family Cabombaceae) is native to south-eastern South America and the United States. It roots in mud in still to slow water, with stems up to 1.5 m and fan-shaped, finely divided leaves, plus small floating leaves and white flowers at the surface. It was once one of the commonest aquarium plants. It is now an invasive alien species of concern in the EU, where trade and sale are forbidden, and in Great Britain. In Australia it is a weed of national significance that threatens water supplies. It spreads mainly from fragments: stems become brittle in late summer and break apart. If you already have it, keep it out of ponds and never put trimmings in drains, compost or waterways; bag them as household waste. Never release this plant or dispose of it in drains or waterways; it is invasive in some countries. Sources: Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cabombacaroliniana); Wikipedia, List of freshwater aquarium plant species. Checked October 2026.

Breeding

Spreads from stem fragments and also by seed. Do not propagate for sale.

Compatibility and tank mates

Banned from sale to buyers in Great Britain and throughout the EU. Soft, fine leaves are eaten by goldfish, large cichlids and herbivores, and can be clogged by debris from diggers. Good with small community fish and shrimp.

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

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