Stoffels Lagenandra meeboldii ‘Red’/’Bleeding Heart’

Lagenandra meeboldii ‘Red’, commonly known as ‘Bleeding Heart’, is a unique and eye-catching aquatic plant known for its broad, oval-shaped leaves that range from deep green to rich, reddish-purple. Originating from India, this plant is well-loved for its bold colors and striking appearance, making it a perfect midground or background plant that adds a dramatic splash of color to any aquascape. Its adaptability and relatively low maintenance requirements make it a great choice for aquarists looking to add an exotic flair to their aquarium.

Key Features:

• Striking Red and Green Foliage: The leaves of Lagenandra ‘Bleeding Heart’ are characterized by deep green edges that transition into a vivid red or reddish-purple towards the center, giving it a dramatic and colorful look.
• Broad, Dense Growth: This plant’s broad leaves grow densely, making it ideal for creating depth in aquascapes. It adds a rich texture and natural layering, making it an effective midground or background feature.
• Moderate Growth Rate: Lagenandra ‘Bleeding Heart’ grows at a moderate rate, allowing aquarists to manage its shape without requiring constant trimming.
• Adaptable and Hardy: This plant is relatively hardy and can thrive in a variety of aquarium conditions, making it suitable for aquarists of all skill levels.

Care Requirements:

• Lighting: Lagenandra ‘Bleeding Heart’ requires medium lighting to maintain its vibrant colors. With adequate light, the plant’s red tones will become more pronounced, enhancing its beauty.
• CO2: CO2 supplementation is beneficial for Lagenandra ‘Bleeding Heart’, helping it grow more robustly and enhancing the intensity of its colors. While it can grow without CO2, adding it will ensure the plant thrives and displays its best colors.
• Water Parameters: This plant is quite adaptable, thriving in a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and temperatures between 22-28°C. It prefers a nutrient-rich substrate to support its root system and overall health.
• Trimming: Minimal trimming is required due to its moderate growth rate. Remove older or damaged leaves to maintain the plant’s attractive appearance and encourage new growth.

Planting Tips:

• Substrate and Rhizome Placement: Plant Lagenandra ‘Bleeding Heart’ in a nutrient-rich substrate. Ensure the rhizome is not completely buried, as this can lead to rot—keep it slightly above the substrate level while allowing the roots to anchor.
• Midground or Background Placement: Position this plant in the midground or background of the aquarium to highlight its bold colors and broad leaves. The plant can create a striking focal point or serve as a colorful backdrop.
• Water Flow: Gentle to moderate water flow helps keep the leaves clean and prevents algae buildup, allowing the plant’s vibrant colors to shine.