Nomaphila Stricta: The Hardy Giant for Your Aquarium

Latin Name: Nomaphila stricta
Place of Origin: Southeast Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Thailand)

Nomaphila stricta, also known as the "Temple Plant" or "Giant Hygrophila," is a robust and resilient aquatic plant, making it a popular choice for aquariums. Native to the wetlands and slow-moving waters of Southeast Asia, this plant is admired for its large leaves and impressive height, which can reach up to 50 cm in optimal conditions.

Appearance

Nomaphila stricta is known for its thick, bright green leaves that grow in pairs along the stems. The leaves are broad and oval-shaped, creating a lush, dense look when well-maintained. Its rapid growth and sizable stature make it ideal for aquariums requiring a tall background plant that adds structure and greenery.

Aquarium Care and Requirements

Lighting:
Nomaphila stricta prefers medium to high lighting, but it can tolerate lower light levels. In low-light conditions, its growth will slow, and the plant may stretch towards the light, becoming less compact.

Substrate and Nutrients:
A nutrient-rich substrate is beneficial for this plant due to its extensive root system. Like most stem plants, Nomaphila stricta absorbs nutrients through both the substrate and the water column. Supplementing with root tabs and liquid fertilizers will help it thrive, especially in low-nutrient aquariums.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 68-86°F (20-30°C)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (3-10 dGH)

CO2 Injection:
While Nomaphila stricta can grow without CO2, injecting CO2 will promote faster growth and healthier, more vibrant leaves.

Pruning and Propagation:
This plant can grow quickly and may require regular pruning to prevent it from overshadowing other plants. Pruning the stems will encourage new growth and side shoots. Propagation is straightforward: simply cut the stems and replant the cuttings in the substrate.

Benefits to the Aquarium

In addition to its striking appearance, Nomaphila stricta helps improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and releasing oxygen into the water. Its large leaves offer excellent hiding places for fish and can be a great addition to breeding tanks, providing cover for fry.

Conclusion

Nomaphila stricta is a hardy, fast-growing plant that can bring a lush, tropical feel to any aquarium. Its adaptability and low maintenance make it an excellent choice for beginners, while its size and structure are sure to impress more experienced aquarists. Whether used as a background plant or centerpiece, Nomaphila stricta will thrive with just a little care, offering both aesthetic and environmental benefits to your aquatic setup.