Cryptocoryne florida sunset

Cryptocoryne 'Florida Sunset' Care Guide

Common Name: Florida Sunset Crypt
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Family: Araceae

General Description:

Cryptocoryne 'Florida Sunset' is a stunning hybrid variety known for its striking blend of pink, yellow, orange, and green hues on its leaves. This slow-growing rosette plant is ideal for aquascapes, bringing a vibrant yet natural touch to planted aquariums. Like most Cryptocorynes, it is adaptable and easy to care for, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Care Requirements:

1. Tank Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)
• Suitable for nano to large aquariums due to its compact and slow growth.

2. Lighting Requirements:

• Lighting: Low to Moderate
• Under stronger lighting, colors become more pronounced, but the plant will also do well in lower-light conditions.

3. CO2 Requirements:

• CO2: Not required but beneficial
• Adding CO2 will encourage better growth and enhance coloration.

4. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

5. Substrate:

• Substrate Type: Nutrient-rich preferred
• Crypts are heavy root feeders, so a nutrient-rich substrate (such as aquasoil or a sand/gravel mix with root tabs) is ideal.

6. Fertilization:

• Nutrients: Moderate
• Root tabs are highly recommended, as Cryptocorynes absorb most nutrients from the substrate. Occasional liquid fertilization will also help.

7. Maintenance:

• Water Changes: 20-30% weekly to maintain stability and prevent algae.
• Melting Phase: Cryptocorynes may "melt" (lose leaves) when introduced to a new tank but will recover with time.

8. Propagation:

• Propagation Method: Runners
• The plant spreads slowly by producing side shoots, which can be separated and replanted once mature.

9. Placement in Tank:

• Placement: Foreground to Midground
• Works well as a midground accent or as a focal point in nano tanks.

Summary:

Cryptocoryne 'Florida Sunset' is a beautiful and resilient aquarium plant with unique, multicolored leaves. It thrives in low to moderate lighting and does not require CO2, making it an excellent choice for low-tech and high-tech aquariums alike. With patience and proper substrate fertilization, it will develop into a stunning, slow-growing centerpiece.