Plant Profile
Egeria Densa, commonly known as Anacharis, is one of the easiest, fast-growing green stem plants available, making it an exceptional choice for beginners and low-tech aquariums. Featuring dense whorls of vibrant green leaves along flexible upright stems, it closely resembles classic waterweed (Elodea canadensis) but boasts a noticeably bushier and fuller foliage profile. This resilient species adapts effortlessly to a wide range of water parameters and can either be anchored into substrate or left free-floating to absorb nitrates and suppress unwanted algae growth.
*Shipping Restriction Notice: To comply with regional conservation laws, we are unable to sell or ship this plant to the following states: IL, WA, IN, MI, MN, NY, OH, PA, and WI.
Key Features & Benefits
- Hardy green stem plant that tolerates varied water conditions and works well for beginners.
- Dense foliage absorbs excess nutrients, helping maintain clarity and reduce algae.
Care & Planting Instructions
-
Remove lead weight and cotton wrap (or foam) surrounding the base, then strip the lower inch of foliage so bare stems anchor cleanly into soil without rotting.
- Use fine-tip pinsettes to push individual stems 1 to 2 inches into substrate, spacing them slightly apart so light reaches lower growth.
- Provide low-to-medium lighting for healthy growth, as pressurized CO2 injection is not required for this adaptable species.
- Maintain stable water parameters and cooler water temperatures when possible, though the plant adapts well to tropical aquarium temperatures.
- Trim stem tops with straight scissors once they reach the water surface to promote new lateral side branches. Read our trimming & propagation guide for details.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth!
| Attribute |
Specification |
| Scientific Name |
Egeria densa |
| Common Name(s) |
Anacharis, Elodea, Brazilian Waterweed, Large-Flowered Waterweed |
| Family |
Hydrocharitaceae |
| Plant Type / Taxonomy |
Stem Plant |
| Care Difficulty |
Easy / Beginner |
| Light Requirement |
Low to Medium |
| CO2 Requirement |
Not Required |
| Placement / Usage |
Background / Midground / Floating |
| Height / Size |
4–12”+ |
| Growth Rate |
Moderate to Fast |
| Water Parameters |
pH 6.5–7.5 |
| Propagation Method |
Cuttings (Cut stem and replant tops) |
| Origin |
South America |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are the lower leaves falling off my stem plants?
Lower leaf loss (leggy stems) usually occurs when lighting cannot reach the bottom of the plant due to overcrowding or shading from larger plants. Spacing individual stems slightly apart during initial planting and maintaining adequate light penetration will keep lower leaves healthy.
2. Can I let Egeria Densa float in my aquarium?
Yes! Egeria Densa takes up nutrients heavily from the water column, making it fully capable of thriving as a floating plant. Floating stems provide excellent cover and shade for shy fish, fry, and shrimp.
3. My stem plants arrived with round green leaves, but the new growth looks totally different. Is this normal?
Yes! Many aquatic stem plants are cultivated emersed (above water) at plant nurseries, producing rounder, thicker green leaves. Once submerged in your aquarium, the plant will transition into its true aquatic form, sprouting delicate, submerged foliage.
