Blyxa Japonica – IC046

Blyxa japonica is a lovely plant that has grown in popularity in the hobby in the last five or ten years.

It was first reported in 1889 and can be found throughout tropical Asia.

This plant is an obligate aquatic species that prefers slow-moving shallow streams.

Blyxa is derived from a Greek word that means “to gush forth or spring out.” This plant appears to be a standard rosette at first glance.

A closer look reveals that its long, narrow leaves are produced by an interior structure of short stems.

It is moderately demanding, as are many of the newest species in the aquascaping industry.

B.japonica can be grown without CO₂, however, it often appears lanky, and individual plants can be rather thin and unappealing.

When the conditions are not favourable, it will frequently drop older leaves at their attachment to the stem.

Moderate light levels are usually adequate, as long as CO₂, macronutrients, and micronutrients are present.

This plant can survive light shadowing and will turn a dark green colour in certain situations.

Individual leaves will turn a reddish colour under high light, and the plant will appear more compact.

This plant is ideal for nature-inspired aquariums like those popularised by Takashi Amano.

It’s great for softening the edges of hardscape materials and acting as a transition between shorter foreground species and taller, typical stem plants. Its basic but elegant design complements practically any style of aquascape.

Care tips

• Make no major alterations to the aquarium. Unstable settings will cause the aquarium plant to melt and decay.
• Please remember to take this plant out of its pot. Remove the cotton from around the roots and put in a good substrate.