Banana Plant (Nymphoides aquatica)

Bring a lily-pad look to your freshwater aquarium with the Banana Plant (Nymphoides aquatica). Named for its cluster of banana-shaped nutrient-storage tubers, this distinctive plant produces heart-shaped, olive-green leaves, sometimes with reddish undersides. As it grows, some leaves may reach the surface and float like miniature lily pads, creating shade below.

A beginner-friendly choice for planted aquariums, it adds an eye-catching shape among rocks, driftwood, and finer-leaved plants.

Care guide

• Placement: Foreground to midground, with room for leaves to grow and light to reach the plant.
• Difficulty: Easy; suitable for beginners.
• Temperature: 68–82°F.
• pH: 6.0–7.5.
• Lighting: Low to moderate. Stronger lighting can encourage faster growth and surface-reaching leaves.
• CO₂: Added CO₂ is not required.
• Growth rate: Moderate once established.

Planting instructions

Do not bury the banana-shaped tubers. These nutrient-storage organs should remain exposed above the substrate to help prevent rot.

1. If supplied in a pot or rock wool, gently remove both before planting.
2. Rest the tuber cluster on top of the substrate. Only the roots should be lightly tucked into the substrate.
3. If the plant floats at first, gently anchor it with a small rock or plant weight without crushing the tubers, until its roots take hold.

Trim older or damaged leaves as needed. Live plants vary naturally in size, leaf count, and appearance.

Local pickup is available in Sterling, IL, by appointment.