Cabomba Furcata

Plant Profile

• Scientific Name: Cabomba furcata
• Common Name: Red Cabomba, Forked Cabomba
• Origin: South America (notably Brazil, Venezuela, and surrounding regions)
• Height: 30–50 cm (12–20 inches)
• pH: 5.5–7.0
• Care: Difficult – sensitive to water conditions, requires consistency and high-quality care. Not suitable for beginners.
• Light: High – intense lighting is necessary to maintain its bright red coloration and healthy growth
• CO₂: Required – CO₂ injection is essential for optimal growth and coloration
• Propagation: Stem cuttings – healthy tops or side shoots can be replanted in substrate
• Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast (under optimal conditions with CO₂ and nutrients)

• Additional Notes:

  • One of the most striking and colorful Cabomba species due to its bright red to orange-red feathery foliage.
  • Requires nutrient-rich substrate and regular liquid fertilization, especially with iron.
  • Needs stable, soft, slightly acidic water to thrive.
  • It can be difficult to acclimate to new tanks; melting or dieback is common if conditions are not ideal.
  • Best used as a background plant in aquascapes to provide contrast and color.