Hygrophila pinnatifida ‘UK’ – ADA Tissue Culture

Hygrophila pinnatifida ‘UK’ is a unique and highly sought-after aquatic plant known for its deeply lobed leaves and beautiful color transitions from green to red-brown under different lighting conditions. This plant is versatile, often used in the midground or attached to hardscape elements like driftwood and rocks. Its striking appearance, combined with ease of care, makes it a popular choice among both beginner and advanced aquascapers. Packaged in an ADA Tissue Culture, this plant arrives completely free of pests, algae, and other contaminants, ensuring a healthy start in your aquarium.

Detailed Care Guide:

Tank Requirements:

• Lighting: Medium to high lighting is required for optimal growth. Higher lighting levels will bring out the reddish coloration in the leaves, while lower lighting may result in greener foliage.

• CO2: While Hygrophila pinnatifida ‘UK’ can survive in non-CO2 environments, supplementing CO2 will result in more vibrant colors, faster growth, and a more compact form.

• Substrate: Though this plant can attach itself to hardscape (driftwood, rocks), it can also be planted directly in nutrient-rich substrate. A fertile substrate like ADA Aqua Soil will support strong root development and better growth.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 68°F – 82°F (20°C – 28°C)
  • pH: 6.0 – 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral is preferred)
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2 – 12 dGH)

Tissue Culture Preparation and Planting:

1. Opening the Tissue Culture Container:

   • Open the ADA Tissue Culture container carefully. The plant is surrounded by a nutrient-rich gel that sustains it during transport.

2. Rinsing the Plant:

   • Remove the plant from the container and rinse it under lukewarm water to completely remove the gel. Be thorough in rinsing, as any remaining gel could break down and cause water quality issues in the aquarium.

3. Dividing the Plant:

   • After rinsing, gently separate the plant into smaller portions if needed. Tissue cultures usually contain multiple small plantlets that can be planted individually to spread growth more evenly in the tank.

4. Planting:

   • Plant in the Substrate: If you’re planting Hygrophila pinnatifida ‘UK’ in the substrate, use aquascaping tweezers to insert the roots into the substrate, ensuring that the base of the stems are securely anchored.
   • Attaching to Hardscape: If you want the plant to attach to rocks or driftwood, you can tie it down with thread, fishing line, or a small dab of aquarium-safe glue. Over time, the plant will develop roots that naturally cling to the surface.

Growth and Maintenance:

• Growth Rate: Moderate growth rate, but with proper lighting, CO2, and nutrients, Hygrophila pinnatifida ‘UK’ can grow relatively quickly.

• Trimming: Regular trimming is necessary to keep the plant in shape. Cutting the top leaves encourages side shoots and results in a bushier, fuller appearance. These trimmings can be reattached to hardscape or replanted.

• Fertilization: Like most plants, Hygrophila pinnatifida ‘UK’ thrives in nutrient-rich environments. Liquid fertilizers with micronutrients, such as iron, along with macronutrients (NPK: Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium), should be dosed regularly for best results.

Special Considerations:

• Color Enhancement: Under high lighting and with adequate CO2, the leaves of Hygrophila pinnatifida ‘UK’ will develop deep red or brownish hues, adding an attractive color contrast in the aquarium.

• Versatility: This plant is very versatile. It can be used in a variety of aquascape styles, including traditional planted tanks and hardscape-focused aquascapes like Iwagumi. It works well in both the midground and background, depending on how it’s planted.

• Attachment: While it can root in substrate, Hygrophila pinnatifida ‘UK’ is unique in that it can grow attached to driftwood and rocks, making it ideal for aquascapes that emphasize natural elements. Over time, it will create a natural, aged look on hardscape as it spreads.

Challenges:

• Prone to Legginess: Under low light, this plant may become leggy and lose some of its compact appearance. To avoid this, ensure that it receives medium to high light and that the plant is trimmed regularly.

• Algae Growth: Since Hygrophila pinnatifida ‘UK’ thrives in high light environments, be cautious of algae growth. Regular water changes and balanced nutrient dosing will help prevent algae issues.

Summary:

Hygrophila pinnatifida ‘UK’ is a beautiful and versatile plant with intricate, lobed leaves that can be attached to rocks and driftwood or planted in the substrate. Its ability to adapt to various aquascaping styles makes it a favorite among aquascapers. Packaged in a sterile ADA Tissue Culture, it ensures that the plant is free of pests and contaminants, providing a fresh start in your aquarium. Follow proper planting steps and care, and this plant will thrive, enhancing the visual appeal of your aquascape.