Aponogeton rigidifolius

Origin

Native to Sri Lanka. In the wild it grows in deep water at temperatures of 68 to 77F (20 - 25C) in sandy soil with the water pH at 7.2.

Description

The creeping rhizome is cylindrical and about .5 inch (1cm) thick. The leaves stay submerse, are firm (almost leather-like and seem immune to most fish and snails) about 8 to 23 inches long (20 - 60cm) and 1 to 1.6 inches wide (2.5 - 4cm). The margins of the leaves are flat to slightly undulate with a distinct midrib. In colour they are a dark green to reddish colour.

The infloresence has a single spike with white flowers and small fruits.

Cultivation and uses

Unique amongst the Aponogeton's in having an elongated rhizome rather than a tuber which creeps along the surface and from which new leaves sprout. This rhizome can be divided. It needs no rest period but is slow growing, though tough once established. It needs only a moderate light, tropical temperatures and will tolerate harder water than most other Aponogeton's.

Not commonly available but a good plant for the middle to background of anaquarium. Seems to rarely flower in aquariums.

References

External links

• Karen Randell - Aponogetons
• Flowering conditions in an aquarium
• cultivation