GLOSSOSTIGMA

Glossostigma elatinoides was popularized by Takashi Amano and is a long-time favorite as a foreground plant in aquariums.  Plant small divisions from several pots of Glossostigma in the desired areas of the tank and then watch them expand to form a dense carpet.  Glossostigma elatinoides can also be purchased on cocofiber mats if you need larger quantities.  Make sure to have ample lighting and preferably supplemental CO2 to be successful with this foreground plant. 

When Glossostigma does not have enough light it tends to grow vertically rather than across the bottom.  In good conditions, it will grow so fast that it mounds on top of itself, and needs to be trimmed regularly to keep it looking good.  Don't be afraid to cut it back it hard.

Common Name: Glosso, Glossostigma Elatinoides

Glossostigma Elantinoides is a low growing aquatic plant that originates from New Zealand.  It is a perfect foreground plant that if given sufficient lighting and nutrients can grow into a thick carpet of green foliage.  The leaves are small and round with a beautiful bright green coloration that can nicely offset any neutral toned substrate. 

High lighting and Co2 injection is necessary to keep this plant low growing.  Vertical growing thin stalks are an indication of lack of lighting while yellowing leaves can mean nutrition deficiency.  Thin leaves can also hint at a lack of Co2.  This plant can grow quickly and require regular trimming when kept under proper conditions. 

This plant can grow submerged or emersed in dry start aquariums and Wabi Kusa.  Because this plant is small with tiny roots, it can prove difficult to keep planted into the substrate.  In this case, dry start can help by allowing time for the roots to anchor into the substrate before flooding the tank.

Tissue culture plants are grown in vitro from a state of the art laboratory specialized in propagating aquatic plants. They provide the best option for those who want to ensure that absolutely zero unwanted pests are introduced into the aquarium. Remove tissue culture gel before planting. Simply wash the gel away or soak the plant in water and squeeze the gel off with your fingers.  

Family Name: Phrymaceae

Origin: New Zealand

Common Name:     None

Family Name:          Scrophulariaceae

Native To:                Australia and New Zeland

Lighting:                  High

Requirements:          Does best with supplemental CO2 a soil based substrate and regular fertilization

Growth Form:           Creeping

Growth Rate:            Fast under good growth conditions

True Aquatic:            Yes

Placement in Tank:   Foreground

Available As:             Potted, mats