Aquarium Plants That Grow Out Of The Water – Elevate Your Tank

Written ByHoward Parker

Have you ever gazed at your aquarium and wished for something more? Something that bridges the gap between your lush underwater world and the air above?

You’re not alone! Many aquarists dream of creating a vibrant, multi-dimensional display that extends beyond the water’s surface.

The good news? It’s entirely possible and incredibly rewarding! We’re talking about aquarium plants that grow out of the water, a fantastic way to add a whole new layer of beauty and functionality to your setup.

At Aquifarm, we’re passionate about helping you achieve your aquarium dreams. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into selecting, setting up, and caring for these incredible plants, transforming your tank into a breathtaking living art piece.

Why Go Emersed? The Benefits of Aquarium Plants That Grow Out of the Water

Bringing plants out of the water isn’t just about aesthetics; it offers a multitude of benefits for both you and your aquatic inhabitants. It’s a fantastic way to enhance your tank’s ecosystem.

Let’s explore why embracing emersed growth can be a game-changer for your hobby.

Aesthetic Appeal: Beyond the Glass

Imagine a verdant canopy stretching above your tank, filtering light and casting dappled shadows below. Aquarium plants that grow out of the water add a unique, naturalistic dimension that traditional aquascapes can’t quite capture.

They create a stunning visual transition, often seen in beautiful Paludarium plants or Riparium plants setups, mimicking natural riverbanks and wetlands. This above-water foliage offers incredible texture and color variation.

It transforms your aquarium from a simple glass box into a dynamic, living diorama.

Improved Water Quality and Filtration

This is where the magic truly happens for your tank’s health! Plants that grow emersed are often more efficient at nutrient uptake than their submerged counterparts.

Their aerial leaves have direct access to atmospheric carbon dioxide, allowing them to photosynthesize more vigorously. This enhanced growth means they’re constantly pulling nitrates, phosphates, and other waste products from your aquarium water.

The result? Cleaner, healthier water for your fish and shrimp, naturally. It can even help stabilize pH and reduce the frequency of water changes.

Enhanced Habitat for Aquatic Life

Many fish species, especially labyrinth fish like Bettas, enjoy the dappled light and shaded areas that emergent foliage provides. Some, like Gouramis, might even use the leaves to build bubble nests.

The roots trailing into the water offer excellent hiding spots for fry and shy fish, as well as a foraging ground for shrimp. This mimics a more natural environment, reducing stress and encouraging natural behaviors.

For some species, the presence of above-water foliage can even provide a natural barrier, deterring jumpers.

Increased Biological Diversity

An emergent setup allows you to introduce a wider variety of plant species that wouldn’t thrive fully submerged. This expands your aquascaping possibilities and introduces new textures and forms.

It also opens the door to keeping semi-aquatic critters like certain frogs or crabs, creating a truly diverse ecosystem. Just be sure to research compatibility before adding new inhabitants!

Choosing Your Green Giants: Best Aquarium Plants That Grow Out of the Water

Ready to pick your stars? There’s a fantastic array of plants that excel at growing both underwater and above.

We’ll cover some popular and reliable choices that are perfect for beginners and seasoned aquarists alike.

Easy-Care Options for Beginners

Don’t worry—this setup is perfect for beginners! These plants are forgiving and resilient, making them ideal for your first foray into emergent growth.

  • Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): This is arguably one of the easiest and most popular choices. Simply snip a cutting with a node and place it so the roots are in the water and the leaves are exposed to the air.

    Pothos is a nutrient hog, excellent for water purification, and its vining habit creates beautiful aerial displays. It thrives in various lighting conditions.
  • Anubias Species (e.g., Anubias barteri, Anubias nana): While typically considered fully aquatic, Anubias species are epiphytes that readily grow emersed.

    Attach them to driftwood or rocks with their rhizomes above the water, and let their roots dangle in. They appreciate high humidity but are otherwise very low maintenance. You can learn more about specific types like Anubias Nana Petite growing out of water here.
  • Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii): Yes, the common houseplant! Peace lilies love wet feet and will happily grow with their roots submerged in your aquarium.

    Ensure the base of the plant (crown) is above the water line to prevent rot. Their elegant white flowers are a beautiful bonus to your setup.
  • Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus): Like Anubias, Java Fern is a classic aquatic plant that also excels in emergent setups.

    Attach it to hardscape, ensuring its rhizome is out of the water but its roots can reach. It’s incredibly hardy and tolerant of a wide range of conditions.
  • Bacopa Monnieri: This versatile stem plant can be grown fully submerged or allowed to grow out of the water.

    When grown emersed, it develops thicker, more rounded leaves and can even produce small, delicate flowers. It’s a great way to see the difference in a plant’s growth forms.

More Advanced Choices for Experienced Aquarists

If you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge or want to create a truly specialized environment, consider these options.

  • Sword Plants (Echinodorus species): Many larger sword plants, like Amazon Swords, are excellent at producing emergent leaves once they establish a strong root system.

    Their broad leaves can create a dramatic backdrop, but they require a nutrient-rich substrate and strong lighting for optimal growth.
  • Hygrophila Species (e.g., Hygrophila corymbosa, Hygrophila difformis): These fast-growing stem plants transition beautifully to emergent growth.

    Their above-water forms are often quite different from their submerged counterparts, with thicker stems and different leaf shapes. They appreciate good light and nutrients.
  • Moneywort (Bacopa caroliniana): Similar to Bacopa monnieri, Moneywort can grow emersed, developing robust stems and leaves.

    It’s a great choice for creating dense, bushy growth above the waterline, and under strong light, the leaves can take on a reddish hue.
  • Cryptocoryne species: While slower growing, many Crypts will send up emergent leaves, especially in high humidity environments.

    Their varied leaf shapes and colors can add subtle beauty to your above-water foliage display. They prefer stable conditions and don’t like being moved once established.

Setting Up for Success: Creating the Ideal Environment for Above-Water Foliage

Getting your aquarium plants that grow out of the water to thrive requires a few specific considerations. It’s not just about dunking roots in water!

The key is to mimic their natural habitat as closely as possible.

Lighting Considerations

Emergent plants require light for photosynthesis, but unlike submerged plants, they don’t have water filtering the light or needing to penetrate deep into the tank.

Generally, bright ambient room light can be sufficient for many easy-care emergent plants like Pothos or Peace Lilies.

For more demanding species or to encourage vigorous growth, you might want to use a dedicated grow light positioned above the emergent foliage. Look for full-spectrum LED lights designed for plant growth.

Crucially, ensure your lights don’t overheat the leaves or dry them out.

Humidity and Airflow

Many of these plants come from tropical, humid environments. Maintaining high humidity around the emergent leaves is crucial, especially during the initial transition from submerged to emersed growth.

An open-top aquarium will naturally have lower humidity than a closed one. You can increase localized humidity by:

  • Misting: Regularly misting the leaves with dechlorinated water.
  • Partial Lid: Using a partial glass lid or plastic wrap over part of the tank opening to trap moisture, while still allowing airflow.
  • Humidifier: In very dry climates, a small room humidifier near the tank can help.

While humidity is good, proper airflow is also important to prevent mold and mildew. A gentle fan circulating air in the room can be beneficial.

Anchorage and Substrate

How do you get these plants to stay put and grow upwards?

For epiphytic plants like Anubias and Java Fern, simply tie or superglue them to driftwood, rocks, or other hardscape features that extend out of the water.

For stem plants or rooted plants like Pothos and Peace Lily, you have a few options:

  • Hydroponics Cups: These mesh pots are designed to hold plants with their roots in the water and the plant itself growing out. They often hang on the rim of the tank or inside. Hydroponics cups are a simple and effective solution.
  • Filter Baskets: Many hang-on-back (HOB) filters have space that can be used to root small plants. The constant flow of nutrient-rich water is perfect.
  • Substrate in the Tank: For plants like Swords or Crypts that prefer to be rooted, plant them in your aquarium substrate, allowing their stems and leaves to grow naturally upwards and out of the water. Make sure the substrate is deep enough to anchor them. If you’re wondering about general emersed plant growth, check out our guide on plants growing out of aquarium.
  • DIY Solutions: Creative hobbyists use suction cups with clips, plastic containers with holes, or even custom 3D-printed holders to secure plants.

Water Level Management

The water level in your tank plays a direct role in how much of the plant can grow emersed.

For most setups, having the water level a few inches below the rim is ideal, giving your plants ample space to develop their above-water foliage.

Ensure that the roots of your chosen plants are always submerged, even if the plant itself is largely out of the water. Consistency is key for root health.

Care and Maintenance for Your Emergent Greens

Once your emergent plants are happily established, a regular care routine will keep them lush and thriving.

Nutrient Needs

Your aquarium water is a natural source of nutrients for these plants, thanks to fish waste and uneaten food. In fact, many hobbyists find that the nutrients in their tank water are perfectly sufficient.

This is one of the fantastic benefits of using aquarium plants that grow out of the water – they actively remove nitrates! If you’re curious about this, read more about is fish aquarium water good for plants.

However, if you notice signs of nutrient deficiency (e.g., yellowing leaves, stunted growth), you might consider supplementing with a liquid fertilizer designed for houseplants, applied directly to the leaves (foliar feed) or to the water, ensuring it’s fish-safe.

Always start with a diluted dose and observe your plants and aquatic inhabitants carefully.

Pruning and Propagation

Emergent plants can grow quite vigorously! Regular pruning is essential to maintain their shape, prevent them from overgrowing your tank, and encourage bushier growth.

Simply snip off any leggy or unwanted stems. Many of these cuttings can then be propagated by placing them back into the water, allowing you to expand your emergent display or share with fellow hobbyists.

This is an easy way to get more plants for free!

Pest Prevention

While aquatic pests are less of a concern for emergent parts, terrestrial pests like spider mites, aphids, or fungus gnats can sometimes appear, especially in drier environments.

Regular inspection of your leaves, particularly the undersides, is important. If you spot pests, gently wipe them off with a damp cloth or use an insecticidal soap specifically formulated for edible plants or houseplants (and ensure it won’t drip into your tank).

Maintaining good airflow and high humidity can naturally deter many common houseplant pests.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Emersed Growth

Even with the best intentions, you might encounter a few hiccups. Here’s how to address them.

  • Wilting or Drooping Leaves: This is often a sign of insufficient humidity, especially during the initial transition period. Increase misting, consider a partial lid, or move the plant to a more humid area. It could also indicate insufficient water reaching the roots.
  • Yellowing Leaves: Often a sign of nutrient deficiency (usually nitrogen) or too much direct, intense light. Check your water parameters for nitrates; if low, consider a very mild, fish-safe liquid fertilizer. Adjust lighting if it seems too harsh.
  • Brown or Crispy Edges: A classic symptom of low humidity or chemical burn from fertilizers applied too strongly. Increase humidity immediately and ensure any foliar sprays are diluted.
  • Slow or Stunted Growth: Could be a lack of light, nutrients, or stable conditions. Review your lighting setup, check water parameters, and ensure the plant isn’t being disturbed frequently.
  • Algae on Submerged Roots: While the emergent parts might be algae-free, submerged roots can still develop algae. This usually indicates excess light in the tank or high nutrient levels. Consider adjusting tank lighting duration or increasing water changes.

Riparium Plant Setup Checklist

Ready to transform your tank? Use this checklist to ensure you have everything in place for a thriving emergent plant setup!

  1. Open-Top Aquarium: Essential for allowing plants to grow out. Ensure no jumping fish if leaving fully open.
  2. Suitable Plants Selected: Choose species known for emersed growth and compatibility with your tank size/conditions.
  3. Anchoring Method Chosen:
    • Driftwood/Rocks (for epiphytes)
    • Hydroponics cups or filter baskets
    • Substrate (for rooted plants)
    • DIY holders
  4. Lighting Assessment:
    • Sufficient ambient room light?
    • Dedicated grow light needed for specific plants?
    • Light fixture positioned to illuminate emergent foliage?
  5. Humidity Strategy:
    • Misting bottle readily available?
    • Partial lid or plastic wrap considered?
    • Room humidifier if needed?
  6. Airflow Considered:
    • Good room circulation to prevent mold?
  7. Water Level Maintained:
    • Roots always submerged?
    • Adequate space for emergent growth?
  8. Nutrient Source:
    • Aquarium water sufficient?
    • Fish-safe liquid fertilizer on hand (if needed)?
  9. Pruning Tools:
    • Sharp scissors or pruners for maintenance.
  10. Pest Control Plan:
    • Regular inspection schedule.
    • Safe cleaning supplies for leaves.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aquarium Plants That Grow Out of the Water

Can all aquarium plants grow out of the water?

No, not all aquarium plants can grow out of the water. Many are obligate aquatics, meaning they must be fully submerged to survive. However, a significant number of common aquarium plants are amphibious and can thrive in both submerged and emersed forms, developing different leaf structures and growth habits when out of the water.

Do I need special equipment for emergent plants?

For basic setups, often no special equipment is needed beyond an open-top aquarium. For more advanced or specific needs, you might consider a dedicated grow light for the emergent foliage, hydroponics cups for easy rooting, or a method to increase local humidity.

Will emergent plants make my fish jump out?

While some fish are known jumpers (like certain Killifish or Hatchetfish), the presence of emergent plants can actually make them feel more secure, providing cover. However, if you keep known jumpers, an open-top tank always carries a risk. Consider a partial lid or a mesh cover for safety.

How do I transition a submerged plant to grow emersed?

The key is high humidity. Place the plant’s roots in the water and its leaves in an area with very high humidity, often by covering part of the tank with plastic wrap or using a propagation box. Slowly acclimate it to lower humidity over several weeks as it produces new, emersed leaves. This process is known as emersed growth transition.

Can I use regular houseplant soil for the emergent parts?

It’s generally not recommended to use regular houseplant soil directly in or near your aquarium water, as it can contain pesticides, fertilizers, or other compounds harmful to fish. If you need a substrate for the emergent roots, consider inert media like pumice, lava rock, or specialized hydroponic substrates placed in a container that doesn’t allow soil to wash into the tank.

Do these plants attract bugs?

Like any houseplant, emergent plants can occasionally attract common houseplant pests like fungus gnats (attracted to moisture) or spider mites (in low humidity). Regular inspection, good airflow, and maintaining proper humidity levels usually prevent major issues.

Conclusion

Incorporating aquarium plants that grow out of the water is a fantastic way to elevate your aquascaping game, enhance your tank’s ecosystem, and create a truly dynamic and beautiful display. From the ease of Pothos to the elegance of Peace Lilies, there’s a world of emergent foliage waiting to transform your aquarium.

With a little planning for lighting, humidity, and anchorage, you can easily cultivate these green giants, enjoying cleaner water, happier fish, and a stunning natural aesthetic that bridges the aquatic and terrestrial worlds.

So go ahead, embrace the vertical dimension! Your tank (and your fish) will thank you for it. Happy aquascaping!

Howard Parker
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