Sagittaria Platyphylla Pot

Sagittaria platyphylla, commonly known as the "Broadleaf Sagittaria" or "Delta Arrowhead," is a hardy, versatile aquatic plant that’s easy to care for and can thrive in a wide range of conditions. It is native to North America and is popular in freshwater aquariums for its lush green leaves and adaptability, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Appearance

• Leaves: Broad, lance-shaped leaves that can grow from 4 to 20 inches (10 to 50 cm) in height. In submerged form, the leaves are green and can develop a slightly wavy appearance. Under good lighting, the leaves grow taller and stay vibrant, while in low-light conditions, they remain shorter.
• Growth Pattern: Sagittaria platyphylla is a fast-growing plant that spreads through runners, creating dense, bushy clusters over time. This makes it ideal for covering bare spots in the aquarium substrate.

Care and Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: Suitable for tanks as small as 10 gallons; however, it can grow larger in bigger tanks.
• Water Conditions: Tolerant of a range of water parameters, with a preferred pH between 6.5 and 7.5 and a temperature range of 68°F to 82°F (20°C - 28°C).
• Lighting: Moderate to high lighting promotes faster growth and a fuller appearance. Under low light, it may grow slower and produce more compact leaves.
• CO₂ and Fertilization: While Sagittaria platyphylla can thrive without CO₂, additional CO₂ and nutrient-rich substrate will enhance growth. Supplementing with root tabs or liquid fertilizers can help maintain its lush appearance.

Propagation

This plant propagates easily through runners. Small "daughter" plants form along the runners and can be separated once they develop roots. These new plants can be gently removed and replanted to cover other areas of the aquarium.

Placement in Aquascape

Sagittaria platyphylla works well as a midground or background plant in smaller tanks, while in larger tanks, it can function as a foreground plant due to its height and density. It pairs nicely with other green plants or against colorful species, providing a balanced look in community aquariums.

Key Points

• Ease of Care: Very easy, making it an excellent plant for beginners.
• Growth Rate: Fast under favorable conditions, requiring occasional trimming or relocation of runners to prevent overgrowth.
• Compatibility: Works well in both community tanks and cichlid tanks due to its durable, broad leaves.

Broadleaf Sagittaria is a great addition to most freshwater aquariums due to its hardiness, ability to adapt to various conditions, and its potential to create a lush, natural look.