Underwater Jungle: Top 5 Aquatic Plants for a Lush Aquarium

Imagine walking into the room and seeing your miniature underwater world filled with colorful fronds, swaying gently in the current.

That soft green glow delights both you and your fish buddies; and you just can't get enough of the beauty of your thriving underwater jungle.

THAT'S the feeling you want your aquarium to evoke!

...But instead, it falls flat, lacking that WOW FACTOR you desire.

I know it's frustrating and disheartening to see your aquatic pets living in a bland and lifeless environment.

Thus, as an aquarium enthusiast, who wants to create a visually appealing and healthy underwater environment for your fish, you need to INVEST in the right collection of aquatic plants.

From the vibrant green of Anubias to the striking red of Ludwigia, these top Top Aquatic Plants for a Lush Aquarium are sure to impress!

#1 Java Fern

First up, we have the Java Fern.

I think you probably knew this was coming.

This easy-to-care-for and low-maintenance plant is great for beginners.

It can grow in low to high light conditions and doesn't require CO2 injection. It's also known for its tough, but pleasing appearance, with its long, narrow leaves and roots that can attach to rocks or driftwood.

With its flowing leaves and robust roots, Java Fern is perfect for creating a jungle-like environment in your tank.

#2 Amazon Sword

Next, we have the Amazon sword, a staple in many aquariums with its tall and striking leaves.

Aside from being a perennially popular choice among aquarium owners, the Amazon Sword is a fast-growing plant that can add a lot of greenery to your tank-- and quick!

It likes moderate light and CO2 injection for optimal growth, but can tolerate a range of water conditions.

Keep in mind that Amazon Sword is a larger aquatic plant that can grow up to 20 inches tall, so it requires more care than Java Fern and Anubias.

Furthermore, it needs regular trimming of the outer leaves to maintain its size and shape.

#3 Ludwigia

For a pop of color, try the red Ludwigia, which boasts vibrant red (and sometimes yellow leaves!). This aquatic plant is a great choice for adding depth and contrast to your aquarium.

Ludwigia is a hardy plant that will thrive in moderate to high light and prefers temperatures of 75-80°F.

It's known for its striking coloration and fast growth rate, making it a great choice for those looking to create an eye-catching display.

#4 Anubias

Another low-maintenance plant that is perfect for nano aquariums. It grows slowly and can be attached to rocks or wood.

This plant can survive in low light conditions, doesn't require CO2 injection, and can tolerate a range of water parameters.

Because it's slow- growing, you might need to add a lot right at the beginning in order to get that real "lush" look.

#5 Pearlweed

This delicate- looking and low-growing plant creates a dense carpet of green, making it a popular choice for aquascaping. It also grows quickly and spreads rapidly across the substrate.

Pearlweed prefers moderate light levels and needs regular trimming to maintain its shape and size.

If you don't mind a messier look, Pearlweed will riot all over your tank if you let it. I love letting mine float in a raft at the surface where shrimp and fry love to hang out. Plus- it starts doing that thing it's named for: Pearling!

But why stop there? Experiment with different types of mosses, carpeting plants, and stem plants to create a truly unique underwater jungle.

And hey... don't forget the core benefits of live plants: they help to oxygenate the water, absorb harmful chemicals, and provide a natural habitat for beneficial bacteria!

Happy Plantin'!

Cassandra 🌿🌱🍃