Hygrophila lancea ‘Araguaia’

Hygrophila lancea ‘Araguaia’

Hygrophila lancea ‘Araguaia’ is a distinctive stem plant known for its narrow, lance-shaped leaves and compact, branching growth. Despite the ‘Araguaia’ trade name suggesting a Brazilian origin, the plant is identified as Hygrophila lancea, an Asian species.

Underwater, the leaves develop attractive reddish-brown to purple tones, with a lighter central vein. Unlike many Hygrophila species, ‘Araguaia’ stays relatively short and forms a dense, bushy appearance when regularly trimmed, making it particularly useful for detailed aquascapes.

🌱 Growth & Appearance

The plant typically reaches around 10–20 cm in aquarium conditions and branches readily from the stems. With good lighting, CO₂ and adequate nutrition, the foliage can develop much stronger red, brown and purple coloration.

Its relatively compact growth makes it suitable for the foreground of larger aquariums or the midground of smaller layouts. The fine leaves also provide an attractive contrast against broader-leaved green plants.

💡 Lighting & CO₂

Medium to strong lighting is recommended to maintain compact growth and encourage its characteristic reddish-brown to purple coloration. CO₂ is not absolutely essential for survival, but consistent CO₂ supplementation can significantly improve growth, branching, density and coloration.

Regular fertilisation and stable nutrient availability will also help the plant maintain healthy new growth.

Planting & Maintenance

Plant individual stems into the substrate with some space between them to allow light and water to reach the lower portions of the plant. Once established, trim the upper portions and replant healthy cuttings to expand the group.

Regular trimming encourages branching and helps maintain a compact, bushy form. Compared with many other Hygrophila species, ‘Araguaia’ is a relatively moderate-growing plant, so it generally requires less frequent trimming.

🌿 Best Use

Hygrophila lancea ‘Araguaia’ works especially well as a foreground or midground stem plant in nature-style, Dutch-inspired and detailed planted aquariums. Its reddish-purple colour provides strong contrast against green foliage and can create a compact coloured bush without taking over the aquarium.

✨ Plant Profile

Difficulty: Moderate
Growth Rate: Medium
Lighting: Medium–High
CO₂: Recommended
Temperature: 18–30°C
Placement: Foreground / Midground
Growth Type: Compact stem plant
Height: 10–20+ cm
Propagation: Stem cuttings
Origin: Asia