Hardiness: Very Easy

Light Needs: MediumPlant

Hardness Tolerance: soft--very hard

pH: 5-10

Structure: Stem

Family: Hydrocharitaceae

Genus: Egeria

Region: Central/South America

Location: Paraguay

Size: Stem width: 3-5cm (1-2)

Growth Rate: Very fast

Can Be Grown Emersed: No

South American native Egeria najas has long been an aquarium favorite. It is readily available through trading with other hobbyists, online retailers, and aquarium shops. It is an attractive stem plant that grows strongly and is not at all demanding beyond the most basic of requirements. It is perfectly suitable for moderately lighted tanks and does not really need additional carbon dioxide, although that certainly does help. As with most plants, stronger light and abundant nutrients produce the most luxuriant growth. Unlike many similar looking plants such as Eleodea species, E. najas will tolerate tropical temperatures. E. najas grows an abundance of side shoots and is easy to propagate.

It does not grow new stems from the point of trimming especially quickly, so replanting the snipped off shoots is the best method. Despite its desireability, E. najas has a rather untidy growth habit, making it tough to incorporate into well manicured display tanks. It does make a solid choice for 'natural' style tanks or where a need exists for plant cover for fish.

The plant secretes antibiotic substances which can help prevent blue-green algae (a type of bacteria).