CRYPTOCORYNE UNDULATA

Cryptocoryne undulata is a species of aquatic plant in the family Araceae, commonly found in freshwater environments, especially in Southeast Asia. It’s popular in the aquarium hobby because of its striking appearance and relatively easy care requirements.

Key Features:

• Appearance: The plant has long, narrow, undulating (wavy) leaves that can vary in color from green to reddish hues, making it visually striking.

• Growth: It can grow to a height of around 12–18 inches (30–45 cm). The leaves grow in a rosette pattern, and the plant can form dense clusters.

• Water Conditions: Cryptocoryne undulata prefers slightly acidic to neutral water, with temperatures ranging from 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C). It thrives in soft to moderately hard water.

• Lighting: It does well in low to moderate lighting. However, higher light can enhance its growth and leaf coloration.

• Substrate: A nutrient-rich substrate helps it thrive, but it can adapt to a variety of substrates, provided there is enough light and nutrients available.

Care Tips:

1. Watering: Keep the water consistently clean and avoid fluctuations in water parameters. It’s sensitive to changes in water conditions, especially sudden changes in temperature, pH, and hardness.

2. Propagation: Cryptocoryne undulata can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes, or it may spread by runners. You can gently separate new shoots from the parent plant and replant them in the substrate.

3. Algae Growth: Since it’s an aquarium plant, it’s good to keep algae growth in check, as algae can overshadow the plant, depriving it of light and nutrients.

4. Crypt Melt: One potential issue with Cryptocoryne species, including undulata, is the “Crypt melt,” a phenomenon where the plant may lose all of its leaves when stressed by changes in its environment. However, the plant usually recovers after a period.