Piptospatha ridleyi is a rare and captivating plant closely related to Bucephalandra, Homalomena, and Anubias. Originating from the lush forests of Borneo, this versatile plant thrives in both submerged and emersed environments.
Piptospatha ridleyi features elongated leaves with a striking dark green coloration and unique light green markings running throughout each leaf, adding a touch of elegance to any aquarium or terrarium. As the plant matures, its leaves develop beautiful variegation, enhancing its visual appeal. Its slow growth rate and preference for low to moderate light make it an ideal choice for aquarists seeking a low-maintenance yet visually appealing plant.
Piptospatha is a genus of flowering plants in the family Araceae. The genus is characteristic for being rheophytic, meaning it grows in fast-flowing streams, and it has seeds that are dispersed by splashes of water hitting its cup-like spathes. The genus includes three species native to Borneo. For optimal growth above water, maintaining high humidity levels is essential to prevent the leaves from drying out.
Care and Maintenance:
- Lighting: Thrives in low to moderate light conditions. High lighting can promote algae growth on its leaves, which can be detrimental to its health.
- Planting: Attach Piptospatha ridleyi to wood, rocks, or place it above the substrate. Burying the rhizome should be avoided to prevent suffocation, melting, and eventual death.
- Humidity: Ensure high humidity if grown emersed to prevent leaf desiccation.
Aquascaping Tips:
- Placement: Ideal for attaching to driftwood, rocks, or other hardscape elements.
- Lighting: Prefers low to moderate light; avoid high light to prevent algae growth.
- Substrate: Do not bury the rhizome; secure it to hard surfaces for best results.
Aquarium Benefits: Piptospatha ridleyi’s unique appearance and adaptability make it a prized addition to any aquatic setup. Whether you’re an experienced aquarist or a beginner, this plant can enhance the beauty and diversity of your tank or terrarium with its distinctive foliage and manageable care requirements.
Enhance your aquarium with our versatile selection of high-quality aquatic plants, available in three convenient formats:
- Bare-root Plants: Includes approximately 1 loose clump plants with roots. Perfect for flexible planting arrangements.
- Rooted Bunched: Approximately 1 clump plants with roots, bundled with foam and a plant weight for easy placement.
- Rooted Potted: About 1 clump plants with roots, securely potted in a net pot with rockwool, ensuring stability and healthy growth.
Choose the format that best suits your aquascaping needs and create a vibrant, lush underwater environment with our premium aquatic plants.
Disclaimer: Pictures are not the actual plants you will receive, but a sample representation. Unless specific, we don’t guarantee aquatic plants will be free of pests, and pesticides, grow emerged, or submerge.
Scientific Name |
Piptospatha Ridleyi |
Placement |
Midground / Background |
CO2 |
Not required |
Growth Rates |
Medium |
Difficulty Level |
Easy |
Nutrient Substrate |
Required |
Can it grow emerged? |
Yes |
Lighting Requirements |
Medium – High |