Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia

Overview

Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia is one of the easiest and quickest-adapting crypts, with broad, heart-shaped, slightly glossy leaves on medium stems. It settles faster than many Cryptocorynes and suffers less dramatic melt, which makes it an ideal introduction to the genus. Like all crypts it is a low-tech, undemanding root feeder that thrives in a wide range of water once its roots take hold.

Planting & placement

Crypts are planted in the substrate, unlike ferns and Anubias. Bury the roots in a nutrient substrate, keeping the crown — where leaves meet roots — right at the surface, as shown in our how to plant aquarium plants guide. Its medium height suits the midground, where a cluster of the rounded leaves adds soft body. It groups well with other crypts such as Cryptocoryne becketti and Cryptocoryne wendtii.

Light, CO2 & ferts

Keep light low to medium; crypts do well in gentle light and can bronze slightly under a bit more. It needs no CO2. As a root feeder it draws most of its nutrition from the substrate, so use a nutrient soil or insert root tabs near the crown and refresh them every few months. Our best aqua soil guide covers substrates that keep crypts thriving.

Propagation & problems

It propagates by runners, sending up daughter plants around the parent. Once a daughter has several leaves and roots, separate and replant it to expand the group. The main “problem” is crypt melt after planting or a big water change — normal, and reversed by leaving the roots undisturbed. It tolerates a broad range of hardness and pH and asks only that you leave its roots undisturbed once planted. Avoid uprooting it repeatedly, since each move can restart the melt cycle. Because it settles fast and stays a manageable size, Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia is one of the most rewarding crypts for filling out a low-tech midground, and a small pot quickly becomes a lush cluster.