Hey there fellow aquascaper! Are you tired of the same old aquarium plants? Me too!
That is why I prepared some of the most beautiful aquarium plants that grow out of water for you to check out!
These aquatic beauties not only add an eye-catching element to your tank, but they also require less maintenance and offer a new challenge to your aquascaping prowess. Let’s check ’em out!
1. Amazon Sword
Let’s start with one of my favorites and probably the one that you can see on almost every aquarium plant list. Meet the Amazon Sword, a remarkable plant that is able to grow both fully submerged and partially out of the water.
But, before you jump into adding this stunning plant to your collection, keep in mind that it requires a few key elements to thrive
Propagating this plant is relatively easy. You can start by growing it in a pot until it reaches a height where some of its leaves stick out of the water. Then, with a little care and attention, you can transplant it into your tank’s substrate, where it will continue to grow with its unique emersed leaves.
Now, a study recommends using a mixture of soil and sand in a ratio of 2:1, along with a 0.2% Urea SSP fertilizer. This combination has been found to increase the length and biomass of the plant, as well as improve the quality of its leaves.
| Scientific name: | Echinodorus grisebachii |
| Light requirement: | Moderate |
| Growth rate: | Moderate |
| Maximum height: | 20 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Nutrient-rich substrate |
| CO2: | Doesn’t require supplementation |
| Nutrition: | Fertilization is required |
| Care difficulty: | Easy |
2. Aponogeton Species
Introducing the Aponogeton abyssinicus and Aponogeton boivinianus – two aquatic plants that are sure to add a unique twist to your tank!
The Aponogeton abyssinicus features beautiful floating leaves with a linear to ovoid shape, and produces lovely flowers that usually have two pinkish to purplish tepals. The emersed leaves are slightly leathery and shorter petiolate, making it possible to keep this plant both submerged and semi-aquatic under high humidity conditions.
Thriving in fast-flowing water in its native habitat, Aponogeton boivinianus prefers a bit of a current in your aquarium too. Plus, this makes it the perfect companion for your Vampire shrimp!
One thing to note is that the Aponogeton boivinianus has a dormant period where it loses all its leaves, but don’t fret – this is a normal part of its growing cycle, and new growth will start again.
| Scientific name: | Aponogeton abyssinicus, boivinianu |
| Light requirement: | Low |
| Growth rate: | Fast |
| Maximum height: | 10 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Nutrient-rich substrate |
| CO2: | Optional CO2 supplementation |
| Nutrition: | Requires fertilization |
| Care difficulty: | Easy |
3. Bacopa
While this species of plant is known for producing beautiful flowers, you might have better luck seeing them bloom above water.
This plant has a natural waxy coating on its leaves, acting as a protective shield against the wet environment it thrives in. This impressive adaptation allows it to stay afloat and continue flourishing in waterlogged conditions!
Although Bacopa caroliniana is a slow grower, it can reach up to 30 inches in height and produces lovely pinkish to purplish flowers, especially when grown above water.
Another fun fact a study shows is that the Bacopa species shows antimicrobial activity. In fact, it has been used as medicine since the 6th century AD to treat a variety of ailments.
This incredible plant isn’t just a treat for humans, but it also acts as a paradise for aquatic creatures such as shrimp, fish, and even snails. The leafy branches of this plant provide a soothing and safe retreat for these creatures.
The good news is that it’s an effortless task to grow this plant, be it on soil, sand, or even free-floating on the water surface.
| Scientific name: | Bacopa caroliniana |
| Light requirement: | Low |
| Growth rate: | Slow |
| Maximum height: | 30 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Sand or gravel |
| CO2: | Doesn’t require supplementation |
| Nutrition: | Fertilization is advised |
| Care difficulty: | Easy |
4. Banana Plant
Don’t let its name fool you – this aquatic plant isn’t a fruit, but it does have banana-shaped tubers at the base.
The Banana plant’s unique spiral or ladder pattern of leaves will make your tank stand out. It has a rhizome that stays underwater and grows sideways, and then it produces leaves that float on the surface in a pattern that looks like a spiral or a ladder.
When you hit the perfect balance in water conditions, you can expect to see delicate, small white flowers protruding to the surface of the tank!
However, if you want those heart-shaped leaves to float on the surface, you’ll need medium to high light – but be warned, they can block out light for other plants in your tank.
And remember, this plant prefers completely still waters – no flowing streams for the Banana Lily!
| Scientific name: | Nymphoides aquatica |
| Light requirement: | Low to high |
| Growth rate: | Moderate |
| Maximum height: | 18-20 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Nutrient-rich substrate |
| CO2: | Doesn’t require supplementation |
| Nutrition: | Requires fertilization |
| Care difficulty: | Easy |
5. Bucephalandra
Bucephalandra, also known as “Buce” for short, is known to bloom above water with delicate flowers, making it a popular choice for all aquascaping enthusisasts!
It’s no surprise that this little plant has adapted to low light conditions over time, given that it hails from the dense jungles of Southeast Asia.
Unlike other plants, Buce doesn’t need to be rooted in a substrate. In fact, it is one of those plants that prefer to be attached to rocks or driftwood
Growing Bucephalandra emersed can be a tricky business, but don’t let that scare you away from trying!
One thing to keep in mind is that mold development is a potential issue, so make sure to give your little bucephalandra buddy proper air circulation.
Another thing to think about is that this aquatic beauty is not a fan of pesky algae. To avoid any algae attacks, you have to make sure to turn off your aquarium light at night. Your fish will appreciate a good night’s sleep, too!
| Scientific name: | Bucephalandra |
| Light requirement: | Low to high |
| Growth rate: | Slow |
| Maximum height: | 10 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Sand, driftwood or rocks |
| CO2: | Doesn’t require supplementation |
| Nutrition: | Fertilization is advised |
| Care difficulty: | Easy |
6. Cryptocoryne
Cryptocoryne wedtii is a great option for aquascapers who want to maintain a collection of species without having to worry about the complications and maintenance required for submerged plants.
Unlike submerged plants, emersed Crypts require less maintenance and grow much easier. They are also heavy root feeders, making them ideal for growing in tubs or containers.
To help the plant thrive,you can supplement the substrate with a slow-release balanced fertilizer. and if you want to see this beautiful plant flower, you’ll need to allow it to reach the surface of the water.
When it does, it will produce a stunning single white or yellow flower every now and then.
| Scientific name: | Cryptocoryne wendtii |
| Light requirement: | Low to moderate |
| Growth rate: | Slow |
| Maximum height: | 10 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Sand or gravel |
| CO2: | Supplementation is advised |
| Nutrition: | Optional fertilization |
| Care difficulty: | Easy |
7. Dwarf Lily
We’re all about those lilies! Meet the Dwarf Lily, one of my favorties!
While they may be more commonly found in Canada, lucky aquascaping enthusiasts in a few northern US states can also enjoy these wonderful plants.
Its leaves are mostly submerged under the water, but some can float on the surface. These floating leaves can provide a great hiding spot for fish and add a stunning decoration to your aquarium.
But what really makes this plant stand out is its frequent blooms. The Small White Water-lily produces colorful flowers that can come in a variety of shades, including lilac, yellow, bicolor, white, blue, and red.
These flowers can float on the surface of the water or emerge above it, and can bloom during the day or at night.
However, these plants do require a bit more attention than others, needing regular fertilization and pruning to keep their leaves healthy and vibrant.
| Scientific name: | Nymphaea leibergii |
| Light requirement: | Moderate |
| Growth rate: | Moderate |
| Maximum height: | 6 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Heavy soil substrate |
| CO2: | Supplementation is advised |
| Nutrition: | Requires fertilization |
| Care difficulty: | Moderate |
8. Dwarf Sagittaria
Looking to add some next level greenery to your aquarium? Consider Dwarf Sagittaria!
Dwarf Sagittaria can vary in appearance depending on whether it’s grown emersed or submerged, but both forms are equally gorgeous. In its emersed state, it produces thin, light-green stalks with tiny white flowers.
And if you’re lucky, you might even see it turn redish under specific lighting.
Dwarf Sagittaria also has the potential to produce tiny, white flowers above the water’s surface. While it may take some effort to get it to bloom, the result is well worth it. And as a bonus, this plant can provide your fish with a grassy hiding spot.
Be warned,as Dwarf Sagittaria requires a nutrient-rich diet and lots of fertilization to thrive.
But if you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with a rapidly growing and propagating aquarium carpet that’s sure to impress.
| Scientific name: | Sagittaria subulata |
| Light requirement: | Moderate |
| Growth rate: | Fast |
| Maximum height: | 20 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Nutrient-rich substrate |
| CO2: | Optional supplementation |
| Nutrition: | Requires fertilization |
| Care difficulty: | Hard |
9. Fanwort
Fanwort is an aquatic plant that is the perfect choice for those inpatient aquascapers that are search for some fast growing aquarium plants!
This plant inherits two distinct leaf types – the submersed ones are beautifully fan-shaped, while the floating ones come in a more narrow diamond shape.
Fanwort produces tiny, gorgeous overwater flowers in white, yellow, or purple colors that look amazing on top of its bright green foliage
It’s worth noting that Fanwort’s emersed stage is short-lived; it can only exist for a limited time before it dies off.
Additionally, it is not recommended to keep Fanwort with herbivorous fish, as they like to nip on their soft leaves which makes it deteriorate as time goes by.
However, for those who can provide the right conditions, Fanwort can thrive and create a stunning addition to your aquarium.
| Scientific name: | Cabomba caroliniana |
| Light requirement: | Moderate to high |
| Growth rate: | Fast |
| Maximum height: | 20 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Gravel |
| CO2: | Optional supplementation |
| Nutrition: | Optional fertilization |
| Care difficulty: | Easy |
10. Giant Hygrophila
Giant Hygrophila is an emergent plant, which means its leaves can grow above the waterline while the roots are submerged. In the wild, it can grow up to 24 inches tall, but in your aquarium, it will stay between 3 to 5 inches.
And if you think that’s cool, wait until you hear about its ability to change color! That’s right, this plant can turn dark green, pink, red, and even purple.
But that’s not all – a study has shown that Hygrophila corymbosa has antimicrobial activity and is highly effective against E.coli.
Keep in mind that this plant prefers medium to high lighting and benefits from good macro- and micronutrient supply, especially through the substrate.
With so many varieties available to the aquarium trade, Hygrophila corymbosa is definitely a plant to add to your collection!
| Scientific name: | Hygrophila corymbosa |
| Light requirement: | Moderate to high |
| Growth rate: | Fast |
| Maximum height: | 24 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Fine gravel |
| CO2: | Requires supplementation |
| Nutrition: | Requires fertilization |
| Care difficulty: | Easy to moderate |
11. Rotala Rotundifolia
Rotala rotundifolia’s beautiful colors can range from light green to deep red, and it all depends on the amount of light it receives. But that’s not all that’s interesting about this plant.
As a stem plant, it’s a natural light seeker, constantly growing towards the top of your aquarium, and if it gets there, it will even breach the surface to grow emersed leaves and flowers!
Rotala Rotundifolia is not only a colorful and gorgeous plant, but it’s also highly effective when it comes to cleaning up our eutrophic waters (water full of nitrogen and phosphorus).
However, if you’re thinking of growing Rotala emersed, be prepared for a challenge. These plants need high humidity to thrive, so make sure you’re providing a moisture-rich environment.
In fact, in my emersed tank with high humidity, I have some beautiful Rotala rotundifolia, but in my lower humidity tank, they just dry up like a raisin in the sun.
| Scientific name: | Rotala rotundifolia |
| Light requirement: | Moderate |
| Growth rate: | Fast |
| Maximum height: | 12 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Sand or gravel |
| CO2: | Supplementation is advised |
| Nutrition: | Fertilization is advised |
| Care difficulty: | Easy |
12. Water Hedge
Water hedge is a fast-growing plant that features dark-colored leaves that can turn a stunning deep red depending on the lighting conditions.
Whether you’re growing Alternanthera reineckii in an aquarium or a paludarium, it’s versatile enough to thrive either fully submerged or partially emerged.
If you want to achieve emergent growth, you’ll need to provide a bit more care. But overall, I find that it is also very easy to propagate!
When you let the stems float in water, the new leaves will grow towards the light. You can then pick off the new stems to plant in the soil and enjoy the beautiful, colorful growth of this stunning plant.
Keep in mind that, while most of the plant can be grown emersed, this may cause leaves to die off, and the overall structure of the plant to look different.
| Scientific name: | Alternanthera Reineckii |
| Light requirement: | Medium to high |
| Growth rate: | Moderate to fast |
| Maximum height: | 12 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Soil based substrates |
| CO2: | Supplementation is advised |
| Nutrition: | Requires fertilization |
| Care difficulty: | Easy to moderate |
13. Whorled Pennywort
Hydrocotyle verticillata is an amazing plant that thrives both in and out of the water, making it the perfect choice for those who are looking for aquarium plants that grow out of water.
And here’s the fun part – not only will Whorled Pennywort add some visual interest, but it will even produce charming white flowers when grown above water.
For a different twist, try planting it as a foreground plant or even as a lush green carpet in your larger aquariums.
This versatile plant can grow in either emersed or submerged environments, but from experience, it grows much better when grown emersed.
However, make sure to be picky about your tank mates. This plant is delicate so it is important to avoid adding herbivorous fish such as Kribensis species to the same tank.
| Scientific name: | Hydrocotyle verticillata |
| Light requirement: | Moderate |
| Growth rate: | Moderate |
| Maximum height: | 3 inches |
| Substrate requirements: | Any substrate will work |
| CO2: | Doesn’t require supplementation |
| Nutrition: | Fertilization is recommended |
| Care difficulty: | Moderate |
Final Thoughts
These captivating aquarium plants that grow out of water are guaranteed to add excitement to your tank with their unique shapes and stunning colors.
Why not give them a try and see how they work out for you?
You know that calming feeling of tranquility and thrill while looking at a gorgeous, perfectly functioning tank? That’s why I became an aquarist.
To make a very long story short, I’m Noah, and I’ve started this site aiming to share the most helpful advice on creating thriving habitats for fish and underwater animals.