Dracaena sanderiana, commonly known as Lucky Bamboo, can be used safely in a aquarium setup — but only under certain conditions. While it's not a true aquatic plant, it can thrive in semi-aquatic environments where the roots are submerged but the leaves and upper stems remain above water.
Paludariums
Ripariums
Open-top aquariums
HOB (hang-on-back) filters or external sump chambers
Roots submerged only
Stems and leaves above the waterline
Works well when planted through openings in the tank lid or secured to rocks/wood so only the base sits in water
Also effective in HOB filters, where roots absorb excess nitrates
Entire stem underwater = eventual rot
Leads to decay, ammonia spikes, and fish stress or death
Within weeks to months, submerged Dracaena will soften, turn yellow, then melt
Perfect for the emergent (above-water) area
Roots can sit in waterlogged substrate, gravel, or shallow pools
Leaves and stems thrive in humid, high-moisture air
Looks natural near waterfalls, stream zones, or background hardscape
Water temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Water flow: Gentle around roots
Humidity: 50–90% in paludariums
Light: Bright, indirect light (avoid direct aquarium light)
Trim yellowing leaves or rotting roots immediately
Rinse roots during tank maintenance if grown hydroponically
Keep waterline just below the top of the submerged stalk to prevent rot
Yes, when healthy and only the roots are submerged
No, if rotting—can cause toxic buildup
Not known to leach toxins unless decaying
Combine with mosses, Anubias, or ferns in a paludarium
Group in corners or along the back wall of an aquarium with suction-cup holders or plant holders
Works beautifully in zen or naturalistic scapes with wood and stone
