House Plants That Can Grow In An Aquarium – A Guide To Emersed

Written ByHoward Parker

Have you ever looked at your aquarium and wished you could add a bit more “jungle” vibe without worrying about delicate underwater lighting or complex CO2 systems? You aren’t alone. Many hobbyists are discovering the secret to crystal-clear water and stunning aesthetics lies right in their living room.

Integrating house plants that can grow in an aquarium is one of the most rewarding ways to level up your tank. Not only do these plants look incredible, but they also act as powerful biological filters, keeping your water chemistry stable and your fish happy.

If you’re ready to bridge the gap between your indoor garden and your underwater world, this guide is for you. Let’s dive into how you can successfully incorporate land plants into your aquatic setup.

Why Use House Plants in Your Tank?

Adding terrestrial plants to your aquarium isn’t just about the “riparium” aesthetic. It’s a functional strategy. These plants are incredibly efficient at pulling excess nutrients—specifically nitrates—directly from the water column.

This process is known as nitrate export. While your internal filter handles mechanical debris, these plants work as a natural “kidney” for your tank. By utilizing the water as a source of nutrients, they often grow much faster than they would in a traditional soil pot.

Top House Plants That Can Grow In An Aquarium

Not every plant will enjoy having its roots submerged, so choosing the right species is vital. You want plants that naturally thrive in damp environments or have hardy root systems.

1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

The absolute king of aquarium-friendly house plants. Pothos is nearly indestructible. Simply place the stem in the water and let the adventitious roots do the work. It’s perfect for hanging over the edge of the tank.

2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

If you want a centerpiece, the Peace Lily is a fantastic choice. These plants love high humidity and will happily grow with their roots trailing in your aquarium water. Note: Ensure only the roots are submerged; the leaves should remain above the waterline.

3. Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana)

Commonly sold for vases, this plant is perfect for your filter output or a specialized holder. It’s slow-growing but adds a clean, architectural look to any setup.

4. Arrowhead Plant (Syngonium podophyllum)

With its beautiful, spade-shaped leaves, the Arrowhead plant is a showstopper. It is highly adaptable to hydroponic root systems and will thrive as long as the roots are submerged in a flow area.

5. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Surprisingly, the common Spider Plant is quite happy sitting on the rim of an aquarium. Its cascading leaves create a wonderful “overgrown” look that softens the hard lines of a glass tank.

How to Properly Introduce Plants to Your Aquarium

You can’t just drop a potted plant into your tank—the potting soil will cause massive ammonia spikes and cloud your water. Safety first!

The Cleaning Protocol

  1. Remove Soil: Gently wash away all dirt and potting medium from the roots. Use a bucket of dechlorinated water to ensure every grain is gone.
  2. Inspect: Check for pesticides or fertilizers. If you bought the plant from a standard nursery, it’s best to rinse the roots thoroughly and let them sit in a separate container of water for a few days to “flush” out any lingering chemicals.
  3. Secure: Use riparium planters or simple suction-cup clips to secure the stems. The goal is to keep the leaves out of the water while allowing the roots to dangle freely.

Understanding the “Emersed Growth” Advantage

When you transition a plant to your tank, you are triggering emersed growth. This is a state where the plant accesses high levels of nutrients from your water while enjoying the abundance of CO2 available in the air.

Because the plant doesn’t have to struggle for CO2 (which is often the limiting factor for fully submerged plants), you will often notice a significant growth spurt. This is a great way to stabilize a tank that is prone to algae issues, as the land plants will outcompete algae for available nitrates and phosphates.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the hardiest plants, you might run into a few hiccups. Here is a quick reference guide to keep things running smoothly.

| Symptom | Potential Cause | Action | | :— | :— | :— | | Yellowing leaves | Nutrient deficiency | Add liquid fertilizer to the tank. | | Rotting stems | Submerged foliage | Ensure only the roots are in the water. | | Slimy roots | Bacterial growth | Increase water flow around the roots. | | Stunted growth | Low light | Move the plant closer to a window or tank light. |

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Can I keep these plants with goldfish?

Yes, but be careful! Goldfish are notorious for nibbling. If you have a plant with toxic sap (like some Pothos varieties), keep the foliage well away from the fish’s reach. The roots themselves are generally safe, but monitor your fish’s behavior.

Do I need special lighting for these house plants?

Usually, the ambient light from your aquarium or a nearby window is enough. However, if your room is very dim, a standard LED clip-on light directed toward the plant will make a world of difference.

Will these plants harm my shrimp?

Not at all! In fact, shrimp love to graze on the biofilm that naturally develops on the hydroponic root systems of these plants. It creates a perfect natural feeding ground for your colony.

Can I use fertilizers?

Since you are using your aquarium water, you are already providing a form of liquid fertilizer. If you notice your house plants struggling, a standard, fish-safe aquarium fertilizer will provide the trace elements they need to thrive.

Conclusion

Adding house plants that can grow in an aquarium is one of the most effective ways to create a self-sustaining, beautiful ecosystem. Whether you’re looking to reduce your maintenance schedule or simply want to soften the look of your aquarium rim, these green companions are the perfect addition.

Don’t worry—this setup is perfect for beginners! Start with a simple Pothos cutting, ensure your roots are clean, and watch as your tank transforms into a lush, vibrant piece of nature. For more tips on building your dream setup, check out our guide on how to grow hydroponic plants to maximize your tank’s potential. Happy fishkeeping!

Howard Parker
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