Our favorite Easy and Low-Light Plants: Cryptocoryne Lutea & Vallisneria

Lots of aquarists are drawn to planted aquariums. Planted aquariums are beautiful and natural. They also provide a healthy and rich environment for fish and other aquatic animals. Many times, aquarists are not able to select the right plants for their tank. You need to take into account many things when selecting plants that will produce the best results.

Consider these things when selecting plants. Consider the lighting requirements. Are standard tank light bulbs sufficient? Or will you need more sophisticated lights? The need for maintenance and trimming is also a factor, as well as cost, appearance, health, and substrate requirements, among other things.

In general, most newer aquarium keepers will simply want to look for plants that don’t cost a fortune and are relatively low maintenance all around. There are many options available for plants that you can start with. Aquarium Co-op offers two options that are simple and low-maintenance.

Our Favorites

Vallisneria and cryptocoryne, lutea are two of the most popular freshwater aquarium plants. These plants are low-light and can be grown under any light. They also make great pets and are very easy to maintain. Let’s look at some similarities and differences.

Cryptocoryne lutea

Cryptocoryne Luta is often used in nano-aquariums as a background or midground plant. It is slow growing and provides texture without requiring a lot of care. Compared to other plants, this one retails for fairly cheap, with one or two plants coming in a bunch/bundle. This crypt can be grown by simply taking out the pots that they came in and planting them so that their crown is above the substrate. To avoid any diseases in the tank, it is important to wash the plants before putting them in the tank.

Common problems with crypts in new tanks include the “crypt melt” which is when crypt plants are grown from water and then melt underwater. Typically, plants from wholesalers have been grown up out of water since they grow faster and are easier to raise. It is best to wait until a plant thaws before you do anything. The leaves might melt off but the roots will still be intact and usually shoots of new plants will come back up.

Vallisneria

Vallisneria, or “Val,” is much like Cryptocoryne lutea, in that it is also simple to plant and cultivate. It can propagate every five or six days, sending out runners that grow into new plants. Its appearance is great as it can grow up to the top of your aquarium. It works particularly well for schools of fish and for breeding fish. The dense carpet of plants allows baby fish to survive. Fish like an Angelfish might use the leaves to stick their eggs onto.

It is easy to maintain. One can just go in and trim the old Val when it reaches the point where it blocks out the newer plants. It is usually available for under five dollars as well. There are many types of Val. But it is recommended that you start with the regular Val. This is because it is so simple to grow. Then, branch out.

Give them a try

Val is one of the most sought-after freshwater plants that any enthusiast will want to keep. When keeping multiple aquariums, it’s a good idea to keep it in one tank at all times, so that it can always be on hand when switching up an aquarium scape. Either Cryptocoryne and vallisneria can be a great choice for new or established aquarists. They are easy to grow and can be grown in a variety of ways. These plants are great for those who want to keep a small tank of fish in their home.