Aponogeton sp. 'Purple Red'

Aponogeton sp. 'Purple Red' is a stunning bulb plant appreciated for its long, wavy, and slightly translucent reddish-purple leaves that bring bold color and movement to aquascapes. 

Here’s a complete care guide:

Aponogeton sp. 'Purple Red' – Care Guide

Quick Facts

• Type: Bulb plant (true aquatic)

• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast

• Leaf Color: Reddish-purple to deep red

• Size: 20–40+ cm (8–16 inches) tall

• Placement: Background or centerpiece

• Origin: Cultivar (possibly derived from A. crispus or similar)

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

• CO₂: Not required, but helps support more vivid coloration and stronger growth

Lighting

• Level: Medium to high

• Why it matters: Red/purple hues are enhanced under good lighting

• Tip: Avoid intense direct light unless CO₂ is also used, to reduce algae risk

Planting Instructions

• Do not bury the entire bulb—leave the top 1/3 exposed

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich preferred (e.g., aquasoil or fine gravel with root tabs)

• Spacing: Give room for its broad, arching leaves to fan out

Fertilization

• Substrate feeding: Important—use root tabs if using inert substrate

• Water column fertilization: Supplement with macronutrients (NPK) + micronutrients

• Iron: Helps maintain red/purple pigmentation

• CO₂: Optional, but supports faster, more vibrant growth

⏳ Dormancy Phase

• Note: Like many Aponogeton species, it may enter dormancy:

  • Stops producing leaves for several weeks

  • Bulb remains in substrate

• What to do:

  • Reduce lighting slightly

  • Do not remove the bulb

  • New growth usually resumes on its own

✂️ Maintenance & Propagation

• Pruning: Trim dead or decaying leaves at the base

• Propagation: Not easily propagated by hobbyists; typically grown from bulbs

• Spacing: Don’t overcrowd—it needs good water flow and space for leaves to expand

⚠️ Common Issues

Tank Compatibility

• Safe for: Shrimp, snails, peaceful fish

• Avoid with: Plant-destroying fish like goldfish or large cichlids

• Great for: Nature-style and Dutch aquascapes where contrast and color are key

✅ Tips for Best Color

• Use high-quality lighting with full spectrum (6,500–7,500K)

• Keep up with iron dosing

• Maintain stable parameters

• Ensure good root nutrition