Vallisneria spiralis

Vallisneria spiralis, commonly known as Tape Grass or Eelgrass, is one of the best plants for anyone starting an aquarium. Its care level is exceptionally low, making it a very forgiving choice for beginners. You don't need special high-tech lighting or a CO2 injection system for it to flourish; it grows well even in basic aquarium setups. This plant is a fantastic background filler. Its long, ribbon-like leaves will grow tall, creating a beautiful, dense green curtain at the back of your tank that can hide filters and heaters. This provides a wonderfully natural look and offers shy fish a safe place to hide.

Beyond its looks, Tape Grass is a workhorse for maintaining a healthy aquarium. It's excellent at cleaning the water. It actively absorbs waste products produced by fish, which helps to prevent algae growth and keep the water clear. As it grows, it releases a lot of oxygen into the water, which is essential for the health of your fish and other tank inhabitants. It’s not picky about where its roots go, happily growing in sand, gravel, or a specialized aquatic soil. Simply plant it in the substrate and it will quickly start sending out 'runners' to create new plants, filling out the space with lush greenery.