Hyrgrophilia Lancea Araguaia - Tissue Culture

Hygrophila 'Araguaia': The Reddish-Brown Midground Bush

The Hygrophila 'Araguaia' (scientifically referred to as Hygrophila lancea or Hygrophila sp. 'Araguaia') is a highly sought-after aquatic stem plant (tissue culture), admired for its unique, narrow, lance-shaped leaves and attractive reddish-brown to purple coloration. Despite being commercially named after the Araguaia River system in Brazil, this species is actually believed to originate from Asia, specifically Japan and Hong Kong.

Unlike many other Hygrophila species that grow rapidly and vertically, 'Araguaia' exhibits a creeping or semi-prostrate growth habit, especially under high light. This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for creating dense, attractive, low-growing bushes in the midground or even as a carpet in larger aquariums. Its dark color provides a stunning contrast against bright green plants and hardscape elements.

While often listed with a "Medium" care difficulty, achieving the best compact growth and vibrant reddish-brown or purple tones for this tissue culture requires high lighting and a consistent supply of nutrients, including CO₂ injection and iron-rich fertilization.

Cultivation & Aquascaping:

• Lighting: Requires Medium to High Light (or 0.5 W/L) to prevent it from stretching vertically and to develop its characteristic reddish-brown or purple coloration. Under low light, it will remain mostly green and grow taller.
• CO₂ Injection: Highly Recommended / Necessary for robust growth and color. While it can survive without it in a high-tech/high-nutrient environment, continuous CO₂ supply (6-14 mg/L or higher) is key for a compact, vibrant, bushy appearance.
• Substrate & Fertilization: A Nutrient-rich substrate (like aquarium soil) is highly beneficial. Regular liquid dosing of macro (NPK) and micro-nutrients, especially Iron, is essential to maintain its deep coloration and prevent pale leaves.
• Growth Habit: It is generally a Moderate/Slow Grower compared to other Hygrophila varieties. Regular trimming and pinching of the stems will encourage lateral branching, promoting the desired dense, bushy growth. Trimmings can be replanted to propagate the plant.
• Placement: Best used as a Midground Bush or a sculpted foreground cluster in medium to large aquascapes.
• Water Parameters: Prefers stable conditions. T : 68-82°F (20-28°C) | pH: 6.0-7.5 | Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2-15 dGH).

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Hygrophila lancea ('Araguaia')
• Primary Common Name: Hygrophila 'Araguaia'
• Other Common Names: Hygro Araguaia, Araguaya Sharp Leaf
• Origin: Asia (Mis-named after the Araguaia River, Brazil)
• Max Height: 2-8 inches (5-20 cm) in the aquarium
• Growth Rate: Moderate / Slow
• Care Level: Medium (High-Tech Recommended)
• Lighting: Medium to High
• CO₂ Injection: Recommended / Necessary for Best Color & Growth
• Coloration: Reddish-Brown to Purple (High light/Iron dependent)
• Propagation: Stem Cuttings