🌿 All About Cryptocoryne axelrodi

Cryptocoryne axelrodi is a beautiful and relatively rare species of aquatic rosette plant, known for its reddish-bronze to green-brown leaves with subtle markings. Native to South America, it thrives in well-established planted aquariums and brings a natural, earthy look to the midground or foreground. Its wavy, lance-shaped leaves and slow-growing habit make it a favorite for low-maintenance or nature-style aquascapes.

🔍 Quick Overview

• Scientific Name: Cryptocoryne axelrodi

• Common Name: Axelrod's Crypt

• Family: Araceae

• Origin: South America (Colombia, Venezuela)

• Plant Type: Rosette, rooted plant

🌱 Plant Characteristics

• Height: 8–15 cm

• Leaf Shape: Lanceolate to slightly rounded, gently wavy edges

• Color: Olive green to reddish-brown, depending on light and nutrients

• Growth Pattern: Slow, compact; spreads via runners over time

• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

💧 Tank Requirements

• Lighting: Low to medium

• CO₂: Not necessary, but improves coloration and health

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich (aquasoil or sand with root tabs)

• Water Parameters:

  • pH: 6.0–7.2

  • Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• Tank Position: Foreground to midground, depending on layout

🌟 Notable Features

• Excellent for natural, jungle, or biotope-style aquascapes

• Will adapt to a variety of water conditions once established

• Leaves may vary in color depending on environment

• Can form attractive low-growing clusters over time

• Ideal for low-tech planted aquariums

🧪 Tissue Culture (TC) Advantages (Growow Cup)

• Sterile & algae-free – no snails, pests, or pathogens

• Multiple healthy plantlets in one cup

• Excellent for aquascapers looking for clean, healthy starts

• Ideal for nano tanks or large layouts when divided and planted

🌿 Care Tips

• Avoid disturbing the roots once planted – Crypts don’t like frequent moves

• “Crypt melt” is common when transitioning – don’t worry, it will regrow

• Add root tabs if using inert substrate

• Regular water changes help it stay healthy and avoid algae