Hygrophila polysperma ‘Rosanervig’ is as undemanding as standard H. polysperma. Its shoots get about 5 – 8 cm wide and look best when they are kept in a height of about 20 – 40 cm. It is also known under the trade names ‘Sunset’ and ‘Marmor’ (i.e. Marble) and has a striking variegation with light nerves. But if you want deep-pink leaves you must provide intensive light. Otherwise the nerves are rather white.

The distinctive light colouring of the leaf nerves is probably caused by a virus which prevents chlorophyll from being produced in the cells around the leaf ribs, making them white. However, this virus does not affect other plants in the aquarium.

‘Rosanervig’ or ‘Sunset’ is a very easy plant that also tolerates hard water and gets along without CO₂ addition. However, its growth is strongly enhanced by good nutrient and CO₂ supply together with at least moderate lighting. Regular trimming supports a bushy growth. The plant is easily propagated by cuttings of the head and sections of the shoot. Young plantlets also form at the breaking points of detached leaves that float around in the aquarium.

Occasionally shoots may appear that have lost the white or pink pattern and are indistinguishable from standard Hygrophila polysperma. In order to retain the cultivar ‘Rosanervig’, these stems should be removed, and only shoots with the typical pattern of the leaves should be used for propagation.

With its striking white or pink leaf pattern, this Hygrophila attracts attention and is a versatile plant for bushes in the midground to background of aquariums.

• Family Name : Acanthaceae
• Origin : Danish aquatic plant nursery Tropica
• Height : 4-10”
• pH : 5 – 8
• Temperature : 15-30°C