The Siamese temple plant is a large stem plant that has long been valued for its low demands. It is also labelled Hygrophila corymbosa ‘Stricta’ by nurseries, but there are other H. corymbosa forms under the name.
Unlike “normal” broad-leaved Hygrophila corymbosa, the underwater leaves of Hygrophila corymbosa ‘Siamensis’ are lanceolate. They can grow to about 16 cm long and 3.5 cm wide, with coarsely wavy margins. The leaves are light to medium green on the upper side, light grey-green underneath. In strong light they can also take on a light bronze tinge. The shoots can be up to about 25 cm wide under good conditions. The sturdy stem, about 3 to 5 mm thick, is densely covered with leaves and grows upright. Occasionally side shoots appear in the leaf axils. The shoots grow quickly to at least 40 cm long and without pruning they eventually grow out of the water. The emersed plant has blue-green tinted leaves and branched inflorescences with small blue-purple flowers in the leaf axils.

Hygrophila corymbosa “Siamensis” is content with medium light intensity and tolerates hard water, but is grateful for good macro- and micronutrient supply, also via the substrate. The addition of CO₂ is not necessary, but is very beneficial for growth. Because of its fast growth, the shoots often have to be pruned if you want to keep the plant submerged. Propagation is easy by head and partial cuttings.

This amphibious plant from Thailand looks particularly good in large aquariums as a mid to background plant. With its low demands, it is recommended for aquarium beginners and for the initial planting of newly set-up tanks. It goes well in Dutch-style planted aquariums and also in Asian biotope tanks. Because it also grows well emersed and then decorates itself with its pretty, small flowers, Hygrophila corymbosa ‘Siamensis’ is also interesting for open tanks, paludariums and Wabi-Kusa.

• Family Name : Acanthaceae
• Origin : Southeast Asia
• Height : 6-12″
• pH : 6.0-7.5
• Temperature : 18-30°C