Cryptocoryne Lucens

🌿 Plant Profile

• Scientific Name: Cryptocoryne lucens

• Common Name: Lucens Crypt

• Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Sri Lanka

• Height: 15–25 cm (6–10 inches)

• pH: 6.0 – 7.5

• Care: Easy to moderate; ideal for beginners and intermediate aquarists

• Light: Low to moderate

• CO₂: Not required; optional CO₂ can improve growth

• Propagation: Rhizome division — separate and replant rhizomes

• Growth Rate: Moderate

🌱 Care Notes

• Leaf Texture: Cryptocoryne lucens is known for its narrow, lance-shaped, light green leaves that form a dense, rosette-like pattern. It has a subtle, elegant appearance, making it perfect for aquascapes seeking a more delicate or fine-textured plant.

• Placement: Best placed in the midground or foreground of aquariums, as it typically stays short and compact. It works well in both small and medium aquariums.

• Water Conditions: Prefers soft to moderately hard water, and thrives in temperatures ranging from 22–28°C (72–82°F). It is adaptable to a range of water conditions, though stable parameters with a slightly acidic to neutral pH are ideal.

• Lighting: Cryptocoryne lucens does well under low to moderate lighting. While it can grow in low light, brighter conditions will encourage denser, healthier foliage. However, avoid high-intensity lighting to prevent algae issues.

• CO₂: This plant does not require CO₂ supplementation, but it can benefit from it, especially in low-light or nutrient-poor setups, resulting in faster growth.

• Fertilization: It benefits from root tabs and liquid fertilizers, particularly if planted in nutrient-poor substrate. Regular fertilization supports its moderate growth rate.

• Algae: Due to its slow to moderate growth rate, Cryptocoryne lucens is not highly prone to algae overgrowth. Keeping lighting moderate and water parameters stable will prevent algae from becoming an issue.