Here is all about Hygrophila corymbosa — one of the most versatile and widely used stem plants in freshwater aquariums. It is easy to care for, fast-growing, and ideal for beginners and aquascapers alike.

🌿 Scientific Classification

• Scientific Name: Hygrophila corymbosa

• Common Names: Temple Plant, Giant Hygro, Starhorn

• Family: Acanthaceae

• Origin: Southeast Asia (Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, etc.)

🌱 General Appearance

• Leaf Shape: Oblong, pointed, smooth-edged leaves

• Leaf Color: Green to light green; may turn pinkish or reddish under high light

• Height: 20 – 60+ cm (8 – 24 inches)

• Width/Spread: 5 – 15+ cm (2 – 6 inches)

✨ It has several popular varieties, including:

• Hygrophila corymbosa "Siamensis"

• Hygrophila corymbosa "Compact" (shorter, bushy)

• Hygrophila corymbosa "Stricta"

• Hygrophila corymbosa "Angustifolia" (narrow-leaved)

• Hygrophila corymbosa "Red"/"Pink"/"Mini"

💧 Ideal Tank Conditions

🌾 Growth & Propagation

• Growth Rate: Fast

• Propagation: Cut stems and replant

• Trimming: Top cutting encourages bushier growth

• Spacing: Space stems apart for light and shape

🌟 Aquascaping Uses

• Used as a background or corner plant

• Offers a tall, lush green backdrop

• Provides natural shelter for fish and fry

• Compact and ‘mini’ variants can be used midground

🧠 Care Tips

• Prune frequently to maintain bushy, upright shape

• Dose with macronutrients (especially nitrogen) and micronutrients (iron for red coloration)

• May grow partially emersed in open-top tanks

• Avoid letting it overshadow shorter plants

⚠️ Potential Issues

• Can grow too fast and become leggy if not trimmed

• Older bottom leaves may melt without enough light or nutrients

• Soft water helps, but it’s adaptable

🐠 Compatibility

• Excellent for community tanks

• Shrimp-friendly

• Not ideal for goldfish or plant-eating cichlids

📌 Summary