Freshwater

This plant really should be provided with extra CO2 and fertilizer if you want
it to really flourish. The root system on this plant is quite large, so keep an
eye on it to make sure it is not choking out your other plants.
Level: Moderate
Temperature: 72–82 degrees F
Light: Medium to bright
PH: 6.4–7.2
Placement: Mid-range to background
Red-stem milfoil (MyriopHyllum
matogrossensis)
In our opinion, this is one of the coolest-looking plants you can buy. It looks
like a winter tree that has lost it leaves, except that it is red and pinkish in
color. It grows thickly, and often resembles seaweed with its three to five
feathering leaflets around the stem.
Red-stem milfoil can be anchored to gravel or left to float. It will pretty much
take care of itself, and is great for coldwater systems.
Level: Easy
Temperature: 60–75 degrees F
Light: Medium
PH: 6.4–7.2
Placement: Background
Stargrass (Heteranthera zosterifolia)
This fast-growing plant has bright mint-green leaves that grow on thick and
numerous stems. Due to the rapid growth and fullness, you will have to prune
it back periodically. The entire plant resembles an aquatic pine tree, and
many aquatic species love to use it as a breeding ground.
Level: Easy
Temperature: 70–80 degrees F
Light: Medium to bright
PH: 6.2–7.0
Placement: Background
Chapter 17: Choosing Plant Species for Your Tank
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