Here's all about Hygrophila difformis, also commonly known as Water Wisteria — a popular, hardy freshwater aquarium plant known for its beautiful lace-like foliage and fast growth:

🌿 Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Hygrophila difformis

• Common Names: Water Wisteria, Wisteria

• Family: Acanthaceae

• Origin: Southeast Asia (India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan)

🌱 Appearance

• Leaves: Highly decorative and lace-like; leaf shape can vary (hence “difformis” = variable form).

• Color: Bright green to light green

• Height: 20 – 50+ cm (8 – 20 inches)

• Width/Spread: 15 – 25+ cm (6 – 10 inches)

💧 Ideal Tank Conditions

🌾 Growth & Propagation

• Growth Rate: Fast

• Propagation: Cut the stem and replant; new roots form quickly.

• Spacing: Leave 3–5 cm between stems for light penetration.

• Trimming: Regular trimming encourages bushy growth and prevents leggy stems.

🌟 Key Benefits

• Excellent nitrate absorber – helps reduce algae growth

• Great oxygenator

• Provides hiding spots for fry and shrimp

• Fast growth suppresses algae naturally

• Visually appealing due to finely divided leaf structure

🧠 Care Tips

• Regular pruning is essential to prevent it from overshadowing other plants.

• Top portions can be replanted once bottom stems become bare.

• Yellowing leaves may indicate nutrient deficiencies (especially iron).

• Can be grown emersed (in paludariums) or submerged in aquariums.

⚠️ Potential Issues

• May melt temporarily after planting or during major water changes.

• Too much shade will cause lower leaves to die off.

• Needs good water circulation to avoid stagnant zones.

🐠 Compatibility

• Safe for most community fish

• Provides excellent cover for fry and invertebrates

• Not preferred by plant-eating fish due to fine leaf texture