Hygrophila salicifolia

Willow-leaf Hygrophila is a tall, elegant plant with long, narrow leaves that resemble those of a willow tree, making it an excellent choice for a background plant. It can grow quite tall, creating a beautiful green wall at the back of your aquarium and hiding equipment like heaters or filters. This plant is a fantastic natural filter; it absorbs fish waste from the water, which helps keep the tank clean and reduces the growth of unwanted algae. It also produces a lot of oxygen, which is great for your fish's health.

While not the easiest plant, it's a great step up for those with some experience. Its main requirement is regular trimming. Because it grows fast, you will need to cut it back every few weeks to prevent it from taking over the tank and blocking light from other plants. Planting is simple: just push the stems into your sand or gravel. It is adaptable to a wide range of water conditions found in typical freshwater community tanks and doesn't require strong water movement. If you want a fast-growing plant that actively improves your water quality and adds a lush, jungle-like feel to your tank, Willow-leaf Hygro is a superb option.