🌿 All About Tonina fluviatilis – Growow TC Plant

Tonina fluviatilis is an elegant, eye-catching stem plant prized in aquascaping for its soft, whorled, star-shaped leaves and unique lime-green to light olive coloration. Native to South America, this species adds a delicate and exotic look to midground or background placements in high-tech tanks. It requires soft, acidic water, CO₂ supplementation, and nutrient-rich conditions to truly thrive.

🔍 Quick Overview

• Scientific Name: Tonina fluviatilis

• Common Name: Tonina

• Family: Eriocaulaceae

• Origin: South America (Brazil, Venezuela)

• Type: Stem plant

🌱 Plant Characteristics

• Height: 20–40+ cm

• Leaf Shape: Thin, needle-like, arranged in starry whorls around the stem

• Color: Light green to olive green

• Growth Pattern: Upright, vertical; forms single-stem or bushy groups

• Growth Rate: Moderate with proper care

💧 Tank Requirements

• Lighting: Medium to high (essential for healthy growth)

• CO₂: Required – improves density and color vibrancy

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich aquasoil preferred

• Water Parameters:

  • pH: 5.5–6.8 (acidic conditions crucial)

  • Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

  • Hardness: Very soft water (low KH/GH)

• Tank Position: Midground to background

🧪 Growow Tissue Culture (TC) Benefits

• 100% sterile and algae-free – no snails or hitchhikers

• Comes with strong, healthy stems for quicker adaptation

• Easy to divide and plant across multiple spots

• Ensures vibrant and pest-free planting for premium aquascapes

🌟 Key Features

• Striking star-shaped foliage makes it a standout accent plant

• Best suited for Dutch, Nature, or Art-style aquascapes

• Thrives in soft, CO₂-rich, nutrient-balanced environments

• Great contrast to red or broad-leaved plants like Ludwigia or Crypts

🧠 Tips for Success

• Handle gently – stems are fragile

• Avoid hard water – may lead to stunting or leaf drop

• Regular trimming promotes bushier, more compact growth

• Works well when grouped in small clusters or as a vertical accent