Hygrophila sp. 'Green Olive'

🌿 Hygrophila sp. 'Green Olive'

Hygrophila sp. 'Green Olive' is a unique and attractive stem plant valued for its warm, olive-green to muted golden-brown foliage. Its slender, lanceolate leaves introduce a subtle, earthy tone and distinct textural variety to planted aquariums.

🌱 Growth & Appearance

This species develops upright, woody stems adorned with narrow leaves that arch gracefully. Under moderate to high light, the leaves transition from a deep olive-green into soft amber and brownish hues, especially near the water surface.

Its moderate growth rate makes it easier to manage than faster-growing Hygrophila varieties. Regular pruning helps build a full, bushy cluster while keeping the lower stems healthy and leafy.

💡 Lighting & CO₂

Hygrophila sp. 'Green Olive' adapts well to a variety of lighting conditions. Moderate lighting keeps the leaves a clean olive-green, while higher lighting intensifies the brownish-golden tones and encourages tighter node spacing.

CO₂ injection is not strictly required, making it suitable for low-tech setups. However, providing steady CO₂ and balanced nutrient dosing promotes faster growth, broader leaves, and richer coloration.

🪴 Planting & Maintenance

Plant individual stems into a rich substrate, leaving adequate space between them so light reaches the base of each stem. To propagate, simply trim the upper portions once they reach the desired height and insert the cuttings directly into the soil.

Trimming the main stem triggers multiple side shoots at the cut node, allowing you to shape a dense, structured group over time.

🌿 Best Use

Hygrophila sp. 'Green Olive' is an ideal midground to background stem plant for nature-style aquascapes, Dutch layouts, and biotope tanks.

Its unique olive tone acts as a natural visual bridge, blending seamlessly between bright lime-green plants and dark red or purple species.

✨ Plant Profile

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Growth Rate: Medium

Lighting: Medium to High

CO₂: Optional

Temperature: 20–28°C

Placement: Midground to Background

Growth Type: Stem Plant

Propagation: Stem Cuttings