What Are Some Aquatic Plants – The Ultimate Guide To The Best Species

Written ByHoward Parker

Starting a planted aquarium is one of the most rewarding steps you can take in the fish-keeping hobby. We all want that lush, vibrant underwater garden, but it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer variety of greenery available at your local fish store.

If you are wondering what are some aquatic plants that will actually survive in your specific setup, I have got you covered. This guide is designed to take the guesswork out of your aquascaping journey.

In the following sections, we will explore the best species for beginners, the ideal choices for shrimp tanks, and the essential care tips to keep your greenery thriving. By the end of this article, you will have a clear roadmap for your first (or next) planted tank.

A Closer Look: What Are Some Aquatic Plants for Low-Light Tanks?

Not every aquarist wants to invest in expensive high-intensity lighting or pressurized CO2 systems. Fortunately, many of the most beautiful plants in the hobby are incredibly hardy and thrive in low-tech environments.

When you are first exploring what are some aquatic plants for a beginner setup, you should always look at “epiphytes.” These are plants that do not need to be buried in the substrate.

The Indestructible Anubias Family

Anubias species, such as Anubias barteri and Anubias nana, are often called the “plastic plants” of the living world because they are so difficult to kill. They have thick, leathery leaves that most herbivorous fish, like Goldfish or Cichlids, will not eat.

The most important thing to remember is to never bury the rhizome (the thick horizontal stem). If you bury it in the sand or gravel, the plant will eventually rot and die.

Instead, use a small amount of aquarium-safe glue or fishing line to attach them to driftwood or rocks. They will slowly wrap their roots around the hardscape, creating a very natural look.

Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus)

Java Fern is another classic choice for low-light enthusiasts. It features long, flowing green leaves that add a sense of movement to the tank.

Like Anubias, Java Fern is an epiphyte. It draws its nutrients directly from the water column through its roots and leaves, making it an excellent water purifier.

If you see small brown spots on the underside of the leaves, do not panic! These are usually spores, which the plant uses to reproduce, or the start of new “plantlets” growing directly off the old leaves.

Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri)

If you are a shrimp keeper, Java Moss is non-negotiable. It provides a massive surface area for biofilm to grow, which is the primary food source for baby shrimp.

It is incredibly versatile; you can let it float, tie it to a mesh to create a “moss wall,” or glue it to branches to simulate underwater trees. It is extremely hardy and can survive in almost any water condition.

Versatile Stem Plants for the Mid-Ground and Background

Stem plants are the “workhorses” of the aquarium. They grow relatively quickly and are excellent at absorbing excess nitrates, which helps prevent algae blooms.

When people ask what are some aquatic plants that provide a sense of height, stem plants are the answer. Most of these can be easily propagated by simply cutting the top off and replanting it.

Amazon Sword (Echinodorus grisebachii)

The Amazon Sword is a staple in the hobby for a reason. It produces large, broad leaves that can quickly become the centerpiece of your aquarium.

However, be warned: these plants can grow quite large. They are best suited for tanks that are at least 20 gallons or larger.

Unlike the epiphytes mentioned earlier, Amazon Swords are heavy root feeders. This means they need a nutrient-rich substrate or the addition of root tabs every few months to stay healthy.

Hygrophila Polysperma

Often called “Dwarf Hygro,” this is one of the fastest-growing plants you can find. It is perfect for newly cycled tanks because it competes aggressively with algae for nutrients.

The leaves can turn a slight pink or bronze color under stronger lighting, adding a nice pop of color to a sea of green. Because it grows so fast, you will need to trim it regularly to prevent it from taking over the tank.

Bacopa Caroliniana

If you want a plant that is easy to manage and has a unique look, Bacopa is a great choice. It has thick, rounded leaves and grows in a very upright fashion.

When you crush the leaves between your fingers during trimming, they actually give off a citrus-like scent. It prefers moderate light but is very forgiving of beginner mistakes.

The Best Floating Plants for Nutrient Control

Floating plants are often the “secret weapon” of successful aquarists. Because they have access to CO2 from the air, they grow much faster than submerged plants.

This rapid growth allows them to suck up nitrates and phosphates like a sponge. When beginners ask what are some aquatic plants to help keep their water clean, I always point them toward floaters.

Amazon Frogbit (Limnobium laevigatum)

Frogbit looks like a miniature lily pad with long, dangling roots. These roots provide a wonderful natural habitat for fry (baby fish) and shy species like Honey Gouramis.

Just be sure to keep the top of the leaves dry. If your filter creates too much surface agitation and splashes the leaves, they may begin to melt.

Red Root Floaters (Phyllanthus fluitans)

If you want something visually stunning, Red Root Floaters are the way to go. Under high-quality LED lighting, the entire plant can turn a deep, ruby red.

Their roots are also a vibrant red, providing a beautiful contrast against the green plants below. They are slightly more sensitive than Frogbit but well worth the extra effort.

Salvinia Minima

Also known as “Water Spangles,” this is a smaller floating plant with a unique fuzzy texture on its leaves. This fuzz helps the plant repel water, ensuring it stays afloat even in turbulent water.

It is very prolific, so you will likely find yourself scooping out a handful every week during your water changes. This is actually a good thing, as you are physically removing waste from your system.

Foreground and Carpeting Plants: Creating the “Grass” Look

The “underwater lawn” is a dream for many aquarists. While some carpeting plants are notoriously difficult, there are a few options that are manageable for those still learning what are some aquatic plants for the foreground.

Dwarf Sagittaria (Sagittaria subulata)

This is arguably the easiest carpeting plant in the hobby. It looks like a short blade of grass and spreads via runners across the substrate.

Under low light, it might grow a bit taller (up to 4-6 inches), but under moderate light, it stays low and forms a dense mat. It is very undemanding regarding CO2 and specialized fertilizers.

Monte Carlo (Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo’)

Monte Carlo is the “user-friendly” version of the famous Dwarf Baby Tears. It has tiny, round green leaves and creates a lush green carpet.

While it can grow without CO2, it will grow much faster and thicker with it. If you are a beginner, try planting small clumps about an inch apart and be patient as they spread.

Why You Should Keep Live Plants in Your Aquarium

Keeping live plants isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a biological ecosystem. Plants perform several vital functions that make your job as a fish keeper much easier.

Firstly, they provide oxygenation. During the day, plants take in CO2 and release oxygen, ensuring your fish have plenty of air to breathe.

Secondly, they provide safety and security. Many fish species are naturally shy. Having a “forest” to hide in reduces their stress levels, which in turn boosts their immune systems.

Thirdly, they act as a natural filter. By absorbing ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates, they help stabilize your water parameters. This doesn’t mean you can skip water changes, but it does provide a safety net.

Finally, plants help control algae. By outcompeting algae for nutrients and light, a heavily planted tank is often much cleaner than a “fake” plant tank in the long run.

Essential Tools and Materials for Planted Tanks

To succeed with your greenery, you need the right tools. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but a few key items will make maintenance much easier.

Aquascaping Tweezers: These long tweezers allow you to plant small stems deep into the substrate without disturbing the surrounding area.

Curved Scissors: These are essential for trimming carpeting plants and reaching awkward angles in the back of the tank.

Substrate: While you can grow plants in plain sand, a specialized aquarium soil (like ADA Amazonia or Fluval Stratum) contains nutrients that give your plants a massive head start.

Liquid Fertilizers: For plants that feed from the water column (like Anubias or Java Fern), a high-quality “all-in-one” liquid fertilizer is a must.

FAQ: Common Questions About What Are Some Aquatic Plants

Do I need CO2 for all aquatic plants?

No, many plants thrive without supplemental CO2. Stick to “Low-Tech” plants like Anubias, Java Fern, and Cryptocoryne species if you don’t want to use a CO2 system.

Why are my new plants turning yellow or melting?

This is often called “crypt melt” or transition melt. Many plants are grown out of water (emersed) at the nursery. When you submerge them, they shed their old leaves to grow new, underwater-adapted ones.

How many hours of light do my plants need?

Generally, 6 to 8 hours of light per day is the “sweet spot.” More than that often leads to excessive algae growth, while less may not be enough for photosynthesis.

Can I use regular garden soil in my tank?

Yes, this is known as the “Walstad Method.” However, it requires a “cap” of sand or gravel and can be quite messy for beginners. It is better to start with dedicated aquarium substrates.

How do I stop my fish from eating my plants?

Choose “tough” plants like Anubias or Java Fern. You can also provide your fish with fresh veggies (like blanched zucchini) to distract them from your aquascape.

Conclusion: Starting Your Planted Journey

Choosing what are some aquatic plants to start with is the first step toward a thriving, beautiful aquarium. Remember that every tank is a unique experiment.

Don’t be discouraged if your first plant doesn’t survive. Even the most experienced aquarists have lost plants along the way as they learned the balance of light, nutrients, and water flow.

Start with the hardy species we discussed—like Anubias and Java Fern—and build your confidence from there. Your fish and shrimp will thank you for providing them with a natural, healthy home.

If you have questions about a specific species or need help troubleshooting an algae issue, don’t hesitate to reach out to the community here at Aquifarm. Happy planting!

Howard Parker
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