6 Top Stem Plants for Your Aquarium

We know that our site has a huge selection of plants and it can be a little overwhelming at first. Bucephalandra, anubias, crypts, ferns, moss, stems... Where do you even start? 

Trust, we get it! That’s why Team BP has put together our Top 6 stem plants for aquascapers. Stem plants are an aquascaping favorite. They are easily propagated and they quickly develop root systems. When planted in the right substrate (we recommend UNS controsoil) and given sufficient light, these plants will quickly fill your aquarium in a short amount of time. They are an important part of the aquascaping game and are normally planted as background or middle-ground plants in tanks. Stem plants are undoubtedly loved by aquascapers of all skill levels. 

Here is a list of top 6 stem plants that would look amazing in any aquarium--specially curated just for you by Team BP 🌱

• Tip: Click the plant names in the titles for more plant info & product page!

1. Easiest/Low-tech: Egeria Densa

Thanks to its lack of care requirements, Egeria Densa is one the easiest green stem plants to keep and is perfect for low-tech aquariums.

Not only is it easy to care for, it's also fast growing. This makes it a great plant that'll help you achieve a balance in your new tank. Another reason it’s considered a super easy plant--it can either be rooted in substrate OR grow free-floating! It’s actually considered to be a ‘water weed’. It’ll thrive in different water temperatures and light conditions.

Tbh, it's pretty hard to kill.

2. Color-changing: Rotala Orange Juice

Arguably one of the coolest stem plants we carry here at Buce Plant.

Rotala Orange Juice has leaves that change and color depending on whether it's grown emersed or submerged. When grown submerged, the orange coloration will vary depending on light intensity and nutrients. Its leaves will grow narrower and colors will deepen until it appears as a thick red bush in your aquascape--perfect for adding some contrast to the traditional green plants in your aquarium.

Rotala OJ can grow fast, so make sure to trim regularly to allow the bottom leaves to receive light.

3. Fast-growing: Water Wisteria

Water Wisteria, also known as Hygrophila Dofformis, is a popular fast-growing stem plant is super low maintenance. You can quickly fill your tank with this plant through easy propagation.

In addition, this plant is versatile because it can be used as a stem plant in your background or middle-ground, or i planted on its side across the substrate as a thick green carpet as well. It’s healthy, bright green leaves will create an attention-grabbing aesthetic to your tank.

Super fish and shrimp friendly as well.

4. Unique: Ludwigia Senegalensis 

Ludwigia Senegalensis is actually considered rare in the aquascaping community because not many farms currently grow it.

We love this plant because of its diversity. When emersed, it looks just like a plain green ludwigia plant. Although, once submerged, its form is incredibly unique. There are prominent red veins on the leaves that deepen in color when under high light.

This plant will undoubtedly stand out in your tank. 10/10 would recommend.

5. Flowering: Bacopa Monnieri 

We’re sure that you’ve seen pictures of this one before. It’s no surprise that this plant made it to our favorite list. 

Bacopa Monnieri is one of our best-sellers and perfect for beginners because it requires little attention. It likes to show off--meaning it doesn’t take much effort to get this plant to flower.

When submerged, Bacopa will continue to grow vertically even after it breaks the surface of the water. Once emersed, it will blossom dainty white, pink, or purple flowers. If you ask us, it is the perfect plant choice if you want to add some personality to your tank.

You can read more about Bacopa Monnieri plant specs, care tips, and fun facts by clicking HERE. 

6. Overall Favorite: Ludwigia Natans Super Red

Simply a classic stem plant for any planted aquarium. We hope you understand why Ludwigia Natans Super Red is our favorites because this one consistently stays at the top of our list.

It is a super easy plant to keep. This plant will glow red for you when provided high lighting and sufficient nutrients. We recommend throwing some UNS Plant Food in your tank and just watch how Super Red thrives. Although CO2 would give it a boost, its not absolutely necessary & this plant will even stay a vibrant red even in moderate lighting.

This plant produces beautifully unique, small red leaves that grow in opposite pairs along the entire length of the stem.

If you’ve been wanting to add some dimension to your tank, Ludwigia Super Red is the perfect choice. If you ask us, Super Red would look 🔥 in anyone's tank.

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