Hygrophila pinnatifida

This plant, which originates from India, has leaves that are a brown to olive-green colour on the top and a very distinctive burgundy-red colour underneath. The more light that this plant gets will allow it to remain more compact in its growth form. A good nutrient-rich substrate and CO₂ injection is recommended in order for this plant to keep its beautiful colours, which are very contrasting to the normal green coloured plants within the aquarium.
Propagation is undertaken from the runner-like lateral shoots that this plant sends out. These shoots should be cut and replanted directly into the substrate.

In-Vitro plants, also known as tissue culture plants, are grown in plastic polypropylene jars. The growing medium is a gel-like fertile substance. This method of propagation guarantees that they are grown in a sterile environment, so that they are free from disease, snails, pests, algae, and pathogens. Pesticides are not used as they are potentially harmful to aquarium inhabitants. These plants are perfect for aquariums as they pose no threat to their inhabitants e.g. fish, shrimp etc.