Cryptocoryne willisii 'Narrow'

Cryptocoryne willisii 'Narrow' is a slender and understated aquatic plant valued for its fine, grass-like leaves and compact, clumping growth habit. Native to Sri Lanka, this variant of Cryptocoryne willisii features narrow, lance-shaped green leaves that grow in tight rosettes, making it an excellent choice for subtle foreground to midground placement in natural-style aquascapes. Its modest height and graceful form allow it to blend seamlessly into both minimalistic and densely planted layouts.

In aquascaping, C. willisii 'Narrow' is appreciated for its neat, tidy appearance and its ability to form gentle, low-growing carpets over time. Although it lacks the dramatic coloration of some other Crypts, it makes up for it with its elegant, grass-like texture. It performs well in shaded areas or under moderate lighting and pairs beautifully with broader-leaved or bolder-colored plants, offering fine contrast and visual depth.

This species is undemanding and well-suited to low-tech tanks. It thrives in stable conditions with a nutrient-rich substrate and minimal water column fertilization. While CO₂ is not required, it will promote faster spread and denser growth. Like other Cryptocorynes, it may experience "crypt melt" when newly introduced but typically recovers within a few weeks.

Routine maintenance is simple, involving occasional pruning of older leaves and thinning out of runners to maintain shape. With time, it spreads through short runners, slowly covering available space with soft, green clusters.

Care Tips:

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate preferred; root tabs helpful for long-term growth.

• Lighting: Low to moderate; adapts well to low-light environments.

• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Nutrients: Low to medium; prioritize root feeding, occasional liquid fertilization.

• Propagation: Spreads via runners; separate young plants for replanting.

Growth: Slow to moderate
Lighting: Low to moderate
Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Nutrients: Low to medium
Difficulty: Easy