Cryptocoryne Parva

Cryptocoryne Parva Token

• Difficulty: Easy
• Family: Araceae
• Gender: Cryptocoryne
• From: Asia
• Lighting design: Average
• Temperature: 15º - 28º
• Growth: Slow
• PH: 5.0 to 8.0
• Hardness: 0 to 30
• Co2: Optional

Cryptocoryne Parva Characteristics

The smallest known Cryptocoryne species originates from the central highlands of Sri Lanka, near the city of Kandy. It grows in dense colonies on the banks of rivers.

In aquariums, it has been known for a long time, but it has not spread much, mainly due to its really slow growth.

The Cryptocoryne dwarf is quite similar to the plants related to Cryptocoryne x Willisii. Under comparable conditions, it tends to remain smaller than those, however, as a submerged, non-flowering plant, it is difficult to distinguish it safely. Previously, the name "Cryptocoryne Nevillii" was used for both C. Parva and C. x Willisii alike, however, this is actually the name of an entirely different species.

Cryptocoryne Parva is very slow growing even under optimal conditions. Unlike other Cryptocorynes, it needs a lot of light. The addition of CO2 and a nutrient-rich substrate or rather, fertilization through the substrate improves growth considerably and allows the plant to grow to its full potential. Keeping iron and potassium at a relatively high level is especially important to prevent this crypt from developing severe deficiency symptoms such as chlorosis and leaf holes.

The propagation of Cryptocoryne Parva only requires the environmental conditions mentioned above and patience. The plant forms side shoots directly on its rosette and stolons, both faster and more efficiently when the plant is kept submerged.

Its small size makes Cryptocoryne Parva an ideal foreground plant, especially for small and nano aquariums. It takes a long time for a grass-like population to form, but it is its slow growth that makes this plant very easy to maintain.