With growing interest in planted tanks, hobbyists are always on the look-out for what’s new or different in the hobby. Aquadip’s Joey Abrahams has hints of what retailers can stock
This month I’m talking about Vallisneria spiralis red. Although Vallisneria is a well-known species, this particular example, I think, has a special appearance.
Most people are probably familiar with V. giganthea, which as its name implies comes from the fact that it is a giant. V. spiralis red, however, can only grow to about 40cm tall and its leaves are narrow compared to V. giganthea, so it is more user friendly for general aquascaping use.
But the reason I really like this plant and find it so appealing is due to the red hues across its leaves. Its leaves start off green, but as they mature and grow, they turn red, adding a splash of colour to aquariums.
All Vallisneria species are really easy to keep and do not require extra fertiliser – and yes, even this red-coloured plant! Which makes a change as usually, red plants require a bit of extra care and experience.
V. spiralis red grows fast and can tolerate a temperature range of 20-28 degrees Celsius. It also propagates easily via runners, so hobbyists can create more plants quite easily if patient.
We offer this species in 5cm pots and, as shown in the photo above, in bunches.
