Here is all about Ammania senegalensis — a stunning stem plant known for its vibrant red, orange, and copper hues, making it a favorite for colorful, high-tech aquascapes. 🌿 Scientific...
Here is all about Ammania senegalensis — a stunning stem plant known for its vibrant red, orange, and copper hues, making it a favorite for colorful, high-tech aquascapes.
Scientific Name: Ammania senegalensis
Family: Lythraceae
Common Name: Copper Leaf Ammania
Origin: West Africa (including Senegal)
Leaf Shape: Narrow lance-shaped to slightly oval; sometimes slightly undulated edges
Leaf Arrangement: Opposite pairs along the stem
Color: Green in low light → copper, orange, to deep red in high light
Height: 20 – 50 cm (8 – 20 inches)
Spread: 3 – 5 cm (1 – 2 inches) per stem
Growth Habit: Upright, bushy with regular trimming
🔴 One of the most intensely red-orange plants in the right conditions.
| Parameter | Optimal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 22–28°C (72–82°F) |
| pH | 5.5 – 7.0 |
| Hardness | Soft water preferred (2–8 dGH) |
| Lighting | High intensity (essential for red colors) |
| CO₂ | Strongly recommended for growth & color |
| Substrate | Nutrient-rich aquasoil or sand + root tabs |
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast (with CO₂ and light)
Propagation: Trim healthy stems and replant tops
Trimming: Promotes side-shoots and bushy, compact form
Spacing: 2–3 cm between stems to avoid shading and promote lower leaf health
Best in midground to background as a red/orange color contrast
Pairs well with:
Ludwigia super red, Rotala rotundifolia, Hygrophila pinnatifida
Green plants like Pogostemon erectus, Cryptocoryne sp., or Limnophila sp.
Ideal for Dutch-style, Nature-style, and color-focused layouts
Needs very bright light to bring out red and copper tones
Dose micronutrients and iron regularly for best pigmentation
CO₂ injection improves color, compactness, and health
Avoid frequent uprooting; plant firmly and allow roots to establish
Perform regular trimming to prevent legginess
| Problem | Cause |
|---|---|
| Leaves staying green | Inadequate light or CO₂ |
| Yellowing or pale stems | Iron or micronutrient deficiency |
| Lower leaves dropping | Shading, poor circulation, or low light |
| Stunted top growth | Nutrient imbalance or CO₂ fluctuations |
Safe for all fish and invertebrates
Shrimp may graze biofilm on lower leaves
Avoid plant-munching fish like goldfish or large cichlids
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Green to copper, red-orange (with strong light) |
| Growth Habit | Upright stem, bushy with pruning |
| Lighting | High (critical for color) |
| CO₂ | Required for best growth & red tones |
| Placement | Midground to background |
| Propagation | Cutting and replanting stems |
| Difficulty | Medium to advanced |
Among the most vibrant red-orange plants for aquariums
Adds dynamic vertical structure and intense color
Perfect for highlight zones or color contrasts in aquascapes
A rewarding plant for hobbyists with CO₂ and strong lighting setups
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