Top 10 Aquatic Plants for Thriving Aquariums

6 min readFeb 2, 2024

Aquariums are not only a beautiful addition to any home or office space, but they also provide a habitat for aquatic plants that can enhance the overall aesthetic and health of the tank. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced aquarist, it’s important to choose the right plants that can thrive in your aquarium environment. In this article, we will explore the top 10 aquatic plants that are known for their ability to flourish in aquariums and bring life to your underwater world.

1. Moneywort (Bacopa Monnieri)

One of the most popular choices for aquarium enthusiasts is the Moneywort, also known as Brahmi. This versatile aquatic plant can grow up to 12 inches and is relatively easy to care for. Its scientific name is Bacopa Monnieri, and it is considered an amphibious plant, capable of growing both above and underwater. Moneywort adds a vibrant green color to your aquarium and creates a lush, natural look.

To ensure the optimal growth of Moneywort, it’s essential to provide proper lighting and regular water changes. This plant benefits from the addition of essential nutrients and carbon dioxide (CO2). Moneywort can be planted in the substrate or left floating, giving you the flexibility to design your aquarium according to your preference.

2. Hornwort (Ceratophyllum Demursum)

If you’re looking for a fast-growing and low-maintenance aquatic plant, Hornwort is an excellent choice. Scientifically known as Ceratophyllum Demursum, this green-colored plant belongs to the Ceratophyllaceae family. Hornwort can grow up to an impressive 24 inches and can be either rooted or left floating in the aquarium.

One of the benefits of Hornwort is its ability to absorb excess nutrients, thus helping to maintain water quality. It also provides shelter for fish and fry, making it a popular choice for breeding tanks. Hornwort thrives in various lighting conditions, from low to high intensity, making it suitable for a wide range of aquarium setups.

3. Rotala Rotundifolia

Rotala Rotundifolia is a beautiful aquatic plant that adds a touch of color to your aquarium. Belonging to the Lythraceae family, this plant can grow between 30 to 50 cm in height. Its leaves display a stunning mixture of red and green hues, making it an attractive choice for aquascaping projects.

To promote the vibrant red coloration of Rotala Rotundifolia leaves, it’s important to provide adequate lighting. This plant is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of water conditions. Regular pruning is recommended to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth.

4. Pygmy Chain Sword (Echinodorus Tenellus)

For aquarists looking to create a lush green base in their aquarium, the Pygmy Chain Sword is an ideal choice. This plant, also known as Narrow Leaf, has a light green color and can grow up to 6 inches in height. Its scientific name is Echinodorus Tenellus.

Pygmy Chain Sword is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, from low to moderate. It is an excellent option for beginners as it requires minimal care and can quickly propagate through runners. This plant is best planted in the substrate, where it will develop a dense carpet-like appearance, adding beauty and depth to your aquarium.

5. Indian Waterweed (Dwarf Hygro)

If you’re fond of delicate-looking plants, the Indian Waterweed is a great addition to your aquarium. Also known as Dwarf Hygro or Dwarf Hygrophila, this plant can grow up to 24 inches tall when kept at a temperature range of 64–86 °F (18–30 °C). Its slender, light green leaves create a graceful and serene atmosphere in the tank.

Indian Waterweed is relatively easy to care for, making it suitable for beginners. It thrives in a variety of water conditions and lighting intensities. Regular pruning is necessary to prevent overcrowding and maintain its elegant appearance.

6. Cryptocoryne Wendtii

Cryptocoryne Wendtii is a versatile aquatic plant that can adapt to a wide range of aquarium environments. This plant is perfect for slightly harder water and can grow up to 6 inches in height. The leaves form a rosette shape, with a width ranging from 8 to 15 cm. The color of Cryptocoryne Wendtii leaves can vary depending on lighting conditions, from green to brown.

This plant is relatively low-maintenance and does not require intense lighting or CO2 injection. It can thrive in most water aquariums with proper care. Cryptocoryne Wendtii adds texture and depth to your aquarium, making it an excellent choice for aquascaping.

7. Anubia Nana

Anubia Nana is a unique aquatic plant that stands out in any aquarium. It is particularly well-suited for tanks with rocks or driftwood, as it can attach itself to these surfaces. This plant can grow up to 7 to 8 inches in height and belongs to the Araceae family.

To ensure optimal growth, it’s essential to remove any dead leaves promptly. Anubia Nana can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions and water parameters, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Its dark green, broad leaves create a beautiful contrast in your aquarium, adding visual interest to the overall design.

8. Java Fern (Microsorum Pteropus)

Java Fern is a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and ease of care. This plant can grow up to 7–8 inches in height and belongs to the Polypodiaceae family. The scientific name of Java Fern is Microsorum Pteropus.

One of the notable features of Java Fern is its ability to attach itself to various surfaces, such as rocks or driftwood. It does not require planting in the substrate, as its roots and leaves sprout from a rhizome. Java Fern thrives in low to moderate lighting conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of aquarium setups.

9. Amazon Sword (Echinodorus Amazonicus)

The Amazon Sword is a captivating aquatic plant that hails from the beautiful Amazon River basin. Scientifically known as Echinodorus Amazonicus, this plant belongs to the Alismataceae family. With its long, vibrant green leaves, it can grow up to an impressive size.

To ensure the optimal growth of Amazon Sword, it’s important to provide moderate to high lighting and a nutrient-rich substrate. This plant benefits from regular fertilization and carbon dioxide supplementation. Amazon Sword adds a bold and striking presence to your aquarium, creating a focal point for your aquascape.

10. Java Moss

Java Moss is a versatile and popular choice for aquarists of all levels. This plant has a unique appearance, with its feathery and lush green fronds. Under optimal conditions, Java Moss can grow up to 4 inches, creating a visually stunning carpet effect in your aquarium.

This plant is relatively undemanding and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions. It can be attached to various surfaces, such as rocks or driftwood, using fishing line or mesh. Java Moss provides a natural habitat for fish and fry, offering shelter and a food source.

In conclusion, choosing the right aquatic plants is crucial for creating a thriving and visually appealing aquarium. The top 10 plants mentioned in this article offer a variety of colors, textures, and growth habits, allowing you to design your underwater world according to your preference. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced aquarist, these plants are known for their ability to flourish and bring life to your aquarium. So, dive into the world of aquatic plants and create a captivating underwater oasis in your own home or office space.