Salvinia cucullata (Salvinia cucullata) care guide

Group
Plants
Family
Salviniaceae (floating fern family)
Origin
Tropical Asia (not confirmed from our sources)
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
3 cm
Temperature
20–30°C
pH
6–7.5
Hardness
2–15 dGH
Care level
beginner
Lighting
Medium to high light; CO2 not needed
Flow
Gentle; floating plants dislike strong surface flow

Care

Salvinia cucullata is a floating fern of the genus Salvinia. It appears on Wikipedia's list of freshwater aquarium plants, but we could not reach a fuller source on this species, so details of its range and appearance here are limited. Its name refers to the hooded (cup-shaped) floating leaves. Care is likely to be like other Salvinia species: float it on the surface in good light, with some nutrients in the water and gentle surface movement. Expect fast growth, and thin it out regularly so it does not shade the plants below. Water figures are our estimate, not from the sources. Several Salvinia species spread aggressively outside their native range. Never release this plant or dispose of it in drains or waterways; it is invasive in some countries. Sources: Wikipedia, List of freshwater aquarium plant species. Checked October 2026.

Breeding

Spreads by itself: the short floating stem branches and pieces break off to form new plants. To propagate, simply move a few clumps to another tank. Scoop out the surplus regularly so it does not shade the plants below.

Compatibility and tank mates

Goldfish, koi and many large cichlids nibble floating ferns; small community fish, shrimp and snails leave it alone. Labyrinth fish (gouramis, bettas) often use floating plants to anchor bubble nests, and the hanging roots shelter fry. Keep it away from strong surface flow and from tanks with tight-fitting lids that trap condensation on the leaves.

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

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