Vallisneria Spiralis

Vallisneria spiralis Care Guide

Common Name: Vallisneria spiralis
Difficulty Level: Easy
Family: Hydrocharitaceae

General Description:

Vallisneria spiralis is a classic and undemanding aquatic plant, known for its long, ribbon-like leaves that may grow straight or slightly twisted. Often called “straight vallis,” it is an excellent background plant for adding vertical lines and natural flow to an aquarium. It propagates readily through runners, forming lush green walls in low-tech and high-tech setups alike.

Care Requirements:

1. Tank Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (38 liters)

• Its height makes it especially suitable for medium to large tanks.

2. Lighting Requirements:

• Lighting: Low to Moderate

• Thrives in a wide range of light levels; stronger light can enhance growth speed and density.

3. CO₂ Requirements:

• CO₂: Not required

• Grows very well without CO₂; supplemental CO₂ may speed up propagation.

4. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)

• pH: 6.5–8.0

• Hardness: Tolerant of a wide range (soft to hard water)

5. Substrate:

• Substrate Type: Nutrient-rich preferred

• While not overly demanding, a fertile substrate promotes robust root development and healthy runners.

6. Fertilization:

• Nutrients: Low to Moderate

• Beneficial to provide root tabs or liquid fertilizers, especially in low-tech tanks.

7. Maintenance:

• Growth Rate: Fast

• Can grow quickly and take over the tank if not trimmed regularly; remove excess runners as needed.

8. Propagation:

• Propagation Method: Runners

• Spreads easily through horizontal runners that produce new plantlets.

9. Placement in Tank:

• Placement: Background

• Perfect for the background where it creates a natural, grassy backdrop.

Summary:

Vallisneria spiralis is one of the easiest and most reliable aquarium plants, well-suited for beginners. It adapts to a variety of conditions, multiplies readily, and provides excellent cover for fish and shrimp. Its tall, flowing leaves bring movement and texture to aquascapes with minimal effort.