Persicaria sp. 'Porto Velho'

Persicaria sp. Porto Velho with deep red narrow leaves as midground highlight aquarium plant

Persicaria sp. ‘Porto Velho’ is a rare and striking aquarium stem plant known for its deep reddish-brown to purple narrow leaves, adding dramatic contrast to aquascapes. Under high lighting and CO₂ injection, its colours intensify, creating a bold highlight in planted tanks.

Growing to 30-50 cm tall, this plant is ideal for midground placement in large tanks or as a background highlight in medium aquariums. Its long, narrow leaves grow along strong upright stems, forming dense colourful bushes when trimmed and replanted.

Persicaria ‘Porto Velho’ thrives under medium to high lighting with CO₂ injection, which ensures compact growth and vivid colouration. It requires rich fertilisation, especially with iron, to maintain its deep hues. Without optimal conditions, colours may appear muted and growth slows.

Does Persicaria ‘Porto Velho’ need CO₂?
CO₂ is highly recommended for optimal growth and to achieve its intense red-purple colours.

Is Persicaria ‘Porto Velho’ suitable for low-tech tanks?
It can survive in medium lighting without CO₂, but colours will be dull and growth slower.

Why is Persicaria ‘Porto Velho’ used in Dutch aquascapes?
Its deep red narrow leaves add dramatic colour blocks and contrast in structured layouts.

How do you propagate Persicaria ‘Porto Velho’?
Simply cut healthy stems and replant them into the substrate where they will root easily.