Spadeleaf plant (Gymnocoronis spilanthoides) care guide

Group
Plants
Other names
Senegal tea plant, Senegal tea
Family
Asteraceae (daisy family)
Water
freshwater
Care level
beginner

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). Senegal tea or spadeleaf plant is a fast-growing stem plant of the daisy family. Since 2019 it has been on the EU list of invasive alien species of Union concern, so importing and trading it are banned across the EU as well. Our source gives little detail on how it grows. It is generally a large, vigorous stem plant that quickly reaches the surface and grows on above it, so it needs frequent trimming. Sources: Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gymnocoronisspilanthoides); Wikipedia, List of freshwater aquarium plant species. Checked October 2026.

Breeding

Roots very easily from stem pieces, which is why fragments escaping into waterways are such a problem.

Compatibility and tank mates

Do not keep or trade it where the law forbids it, and never put it in garden ponds that could overflow into the wild.

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

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