Syngonium podophyllum, or Arrowhead Plant, is a popular foliage plant with striking arrow-shaped leaves. Though not a true aquatic plant, it can thrive in aquariums and ripariums when only the roots are submerged and the rest of the plant remains above the waterline. It’s a great addition to natural-style setups that combine terrestrial and aquatic elements.
Ripariums
Open-top aquariums
HOB filters (Hang-on-Back)
Emersed setups (roots in water, leaves in air)
❌ No.
Submerging the leaves and stems will cause rot and death.
It is a terrestrial or semi-aquatic plant, suitable only when roots are in water.
Anchor the plant so only the roots are in water (e.g., in driftwood holes, HOB filters, floating pots).
Ensure the crown and leaves stay above the waterline.
Suitable for aquariums with open tops or partial land areas.
Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
Flow: Moderate, avoid strong currents on roots
Bright, indirect light is ideal
Can tolerate low light, but growth slows and leaves pale
In ripariums, place near a window or use an LED grow light
| Aspect | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Substrate | Not needed if roots are in water; optional if planted in soil above water |
| Humidity (riparium) | 50–80% or more |
| Fertilizer | Add root-safe liquid aquarium fertilizer sparingly or foliar mist occasionally |
| Pruning | Trim leggy growth or damaged leaves; encourages bushier form |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings with nodes root easily in water |
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Rotting stems | Fully submerged stem/leaves | Keep above waterline |
| Yellow leaves | Overwatering, nutrient deficiency | Improve water quality; add mild ferts |
| Slow growth | Low light or cold water | Increase warmth and lighting |
✅ Yes, as long as:
Only roots are in water
The plant is healthy and not rotting
❌ No, if the plant is decaying — it may release ammonia
| Condition | Aquarium | Riparium |
|---|---|---|
| Roots submerged | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Leaves submerged | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Light | Bright, indirect | Bright, indirect |
| CO₂ needed | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Humidity | Ambient (indoor) | 50–80% (benefits from misting) |
| Fish/shrimp safe | ✅ Yes (if healthy) | ✅ Yes |
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – Excellent nitrate absorber
Philodendron scandens – Similar care needs
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) – For riparium/emersed zones
Bucephalandra, Anubias – True aquatic companions
Mosses (e.g., Java moss) – Good at waterline
