Hornwort | Ceratophyllum Demersum

Introducing the aquatic superstar for beginners: Hornwort! If your tank is basking in low light, Hornwort is the green companion you've been waiting for. This plant is practically the laid-back surfer of the aquatic world—easy to grow, whether you choose to plant it or let it float freely. Picture this: delicate pine needle leaves adding a touch of elegance to your underwater paradise.

Aquatic Zen Master: Now, Hornwort isn't just a pretty face; it's a waste-absorbing wizard for your tank inhabitants. You might notice some stems showing off a trendy green-and-pink ensemble—don't fret; that's just Hornwort being its fabulous self.

Nature's Airbnb: Ceratophyllum Demersum, the botanical name that sounds like a mouthful, is also known as Hornwort or Coontail. It's not just a favorite; it's the MVP for a variety of aquarium keepers. This aquatic sensation is like the feathery fairy godmother your tank never knew it needed. Whether floating freely or planted with its aquatic buddies, Hornwort adds a burst of unique texture and bright color to your nature aquarium.

Aquatic Retreat for Shrimplets and Fry: But here's the cool part: Hornwort is not just a pretty face; it's a cozy retreat for shrimplets and small fry. It's the Airbnb of the aquatic world! And guess what? This plant is a prolific grower, so a bit of regular maintenance is the secret sauce to keeping it in check.

Chill Friend's Care Regimen: Taking care of Hornwort is a breeze, making it the crush of both breeders and beginner hobbyists. It's like the chill friend who adapts to any situation. Give it low to medium lighting, a little consistency in maintenance, and voila! Your tank is about to get a green makeover with Hornwort leading the way. Dive in and let the aquatic magic begin!

Appearance:

• Hornwort is most recognizable for its distinctive fern-like foliage. Its stems are long and slender, adorned with whorls of stiff, needle-like leaves. These leaves, often compared to miniature pine needles, are bright green and typically arranged in groups of three to eight.
• Unlike many aquatic plants, Hornwort lacks true roots. Instead, it possesses tiny structures called rhizoids that help it anchor to the substrate or float freely in the water column.
• During the warmer months, Hornwort may produce small, inconspicuous greenish flowers. These flowers eventually develop into spore-bearing structures that continue the plant's reproductive cycle.

Adaptability and Care:

• Hornwort is an incredibly hardy and adaptable plant. It thrives in a variety of water conditions, tolerating a wide range of temperatures, pH levels, and lighting intensities.
• Its fast-growing nature makes it a valuable asset for aquariums, as it helps absorb excess nutrients and prevent algae growth.
• Hornwort doesn't require special soil or fertilizers. It readily propagates through stem cuttings, making it easy to share or expand your plant collection.

Benefits:

• Hornwort's lush green foliage provides a beautiful visual accent to any aquarium or pond.
• Its dense growth offers hiding places and shelter for fish fry and shrimp.
• Hornwort's ability to absorb nutrients effectively helps maintain good water quality and keeps algae at bay.
• Its fast-growing nature makes it an excellent choice for competitive planted tanks.

Best Roommates:

• Java Fern (Midground to background)
• Anubias Barteri (Midground)
• Cryptocoryne Wendtii (Various species for midground to background)
• Vallisneria (Background)
• Amazon Sword (Background)

TLDR:

Also Known: Ceratophyllum Demersum

Sold As: 5 Stems

Care Level: Easy

Lighting Requirement: Medium

Co2: Not needed

Growth Rate: Fast

Origin: North America

Tank Placement: Midground-Background (Does not grow roots) Or Floating