




Phyllanthus fluitans
Phyllanthus fluitans – A Unique Red-Tinted Floating Plant for Aquascapes
Phyllanthus fluitans, commonly known as Red Root Floater, is a beautiful, fast-growing floating plant that adds a vibrant touch to aquariums and paludariums. Its round, water-repellent leaves transition from bright green to deep red under high lighting, while its long, striking red roots create a natural, jungle-like aesthetic. This plant is highly favored for shrimp tanks, betta tanks, and open-top aquariums, where it provides shade and nutrient absorption benefits.
Easy Growth & Care Requirements
Red Root Floater thrives in moderate to high lighting, with stronger light intensifying its red hues. It grows well in a wide range of water conditions but prefers soft, nutrient-rich water with gentle surface movement. CO₂ injection is not required, but regular fertilization with iron and micronutrients enhances its coloration and growth rate.
Unlike some floating plants like Phyllanthus fluitans is easier to control, as it does not spread aggressively. It propagates quickly through daughter plants, making it an excellent natural nitrate absorber that helps maintain water quality.
Key Benefits
- Stunning Red & Green Floating Plant: Enhances aquarium aesthetics.
- Long Red Roots Provide Cover: Ideal for shrimp and fish breeding tanks.
- Fast-Growing & Easy to Maintain: Helps absorb excess nutrients and prevent algae.
For aquarists looking to add a colorful, easy-to-maintain floating plant to their setup, Phyllanthus fluitans is an excellent choice. Its vibrant hues, fast growth, and water-purifying properties make it a top-tier plant for both low-tech and high-tech aquariums.

Plant Profile
Read about what makes the best conditions for your plant as well as giving you interesting information about where the plant is originally from.
Learn how to keep an aquariumPhyllanthus
fluitans
Phyllanthaceae
South America
High - medium
20-28°C
Fast
Supporting plants
1 cm
5-8
Soft to hard
Atmospheric
Runners / division

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