Hornwort

Salvinia cucullata is a distinct floating fern native to Asia, instantly recognizable by its tightly cupped or hood-like leaves. It thrives in still waters, absorbing excess nutrients directly from the water column, making it an excellent plant for managing water quality and outcompeting algae. The trailing root-like structures (which are actually modified leaves) provide a perfect refuge for fry and shrimp. It requires moderate to high lighting to maintain its characteristic cupped leaf shape; under low light or poor nutrition, the leaves may grow flat.

A highly popular and recognizable floating plant that forms rosettes of thick, velvety, ribbed leaves resembling small heads of cabbage. It develops long, trailing feathery roots that are exceptional for taking up excess nutrients from the water column and providing safe harbor for fish fry and shrimp. It requires gentle surface movement, as splashing water on its leaves can cause them to rot.

A highly sought-after floating plant characterized by its vibrant red roots and round, water-repellent leaves. Under high light and slightly limited nitrates, the entire plant can flush a deep crimson red. It is excellent for absorbing excess nutrients and providing habitat for fry and shrimp, but requires low surface flow as water splashing over its leaves can cause rot.

Barclaya longifolia, commonly known as the Orchid Lily, is an elegant bulbous aquatic plant native to Southeast Asia. It features long, undulating, ribbon-like leaves that can display striking shades of olive green to vibrant red, often with bright pink or red undersides. Known for its delicate foliage, it requires a nutrient-rich substrate and may occasionally enter a natural resting phase where it sheds its leaves. It is highly prized by aquascapers for midground to background placement but needs protection from herbivorous fish and snails due to its highly palatable, fragile leaves.

Pogostemon stellatus 'Octopus' is a highly popular, fast-growing stem plant known for its long, wavy leaves that playfully resemble the tentacles of an octopus. Unlike the notoriously demanding standard form of the species, the 'Octopus' trade profile is incredibly hardy and thrives in a wide range of aquarium conditions. It grows rapidly, providing excellent dense cover for fry and shrimp, and gracefully trails across the water surface if left untrimmed. Frequent pruning is typically required to keep its aggressive growth in check and prevent it from shading out smaller plants.

A popular and highly versatile liverwort that naturally floats at the water surface, providing excellent refuge for fry and surface cover. It was famously popularized in the aquascaping hobby by Takashi Amano, who tied it to hardscape to create bright green, oxygen-pearling submerged carpets. Left to float, it is completely undemanding, but maintaining it as a submerged carpet requires intense care.