Hottonia palustris

Hottonia palustris - Vibrant green Fast-growing stem plant for aquascapes

Hottonia palustris, commonly known as Water Violet, is a unique and elegant midground aquarium plant characterised by its finely divided, feathery green leaves that resemble aquatic ferns or cabomba. Native to Europe, this species is perfect for creating soft, flowing textures in planted tanks.

It is one of the few true coldwater-compatible aquarium plants, thriving in both temperate and tropical aquariums (16-26°C). Due to its fast vertical growth and light, airy appearance, it works well in Dutch-style layouts or as a soft contrast to bolder, broader-leafed plants.

Hottonia palustris grows quickly under medium to high lighting and benefits from liquid fertilisation and CO₂ injection, though it can also succeed in low-tech setups. It’s a great choice for beginners looking to fill in space quickly or create natural-looking midground sections.

Its fine foliage provides great cover for shrimp and small fish, and occasional trimming keeps it dense and compact.

Hottonia is a versatile, low-maintenance aquarium plant that enhances the natural beauty of aquascapes with its vivid green tones and lush structure.

Is Hottonia palustris suitable for coldwater aquariums?
Yes, it is a coldwater aquarium plant that thrives in temperatures as low as 16°C, making it ideal for coldwater setups.

How fast does it grow?
It is a fast-growing stem plant and may require regular trimming to maintain bushy growth.

Do I need CO₂?
It grows without CO₂ but becomes denser and more vibrant with CO₂ supplementation.

Is it beginner-friendly?
Yes - it's easy to grow and adaptable, ideal for first-time plant keepers.