Choose plants for your setup

Live plants arranged in a freshwater aquarium

Begin with constraints

Measure the space you want to plant and note how much shade it receives. Decide whether you will inject CO₂ and how often you want to trim. These choices narrow the field much faster than browsing every plant by color.

For wood and rock

Java fern and anubias provide structure without needing to be planted deeply in substrate. They are good candidates for a lower-demand setup. Keep their rhizomes exposed and allow for slow growth.

For a rooted focal point

An Amazon sword can anchor a larger layout, but its mature size needs room. Cryptocoryne wendtii offers a smaller, textured rosette for many midground positions. Plant crowns correctly and avoid moving established plants unnecessarily.

For a lawn or fine detail

Dwarf sagittaria creates a grassy effect with relatively broad blades. Monte Carlo and hairgrass offer a finer carpet, often rewarding closer attention to light, carbon, and trimming. Choose the maintenance commitment as well as the look.

For the water surface

Floating plants provide shade and a different perspective from above. Plan to thin them regularly. A plant that grows quickly is not automatically low-maintenance if it shades everything beneath it.

Check the exact item

Common names can cover different species or forms. Read the product listing, verify the intended growing method, and check local restrictions before purchasing. Product availability and shipping eligibility are confirmed through the seller.