Ranunculus inundatus

Ranunculus inundatus is a unique and eye-catching aquatic plant native to Australia, known for its delicate, palm-like foliage and structured growth habit. It features bright green, deeply lobed leaves that grow on slender stems, giving it a “miniature umbrella” or “fan palm” appearance. Its sculptural form and moderate height make it an ideal accent plant in foreground or midground sections of an aquascape.

In aquascaping, Ranunculus inundatus is appreciated for its architectural beauty and ability to add a whimsical, yet structured, element to layouts. It fits well in nature-style and diorama aquascapes, where its upright stems create rhythm and texture among lower carpeting plants. When given strong lighting and CO₂, it maintains a compact, low-spreading habit. Without these, it may grow taller and more sparsely.

This plant thrives under high lighting and benefits significantly from CO₂ supplementation, which encourages bushier, more controlled growth and prevents legginess. A nutrient-rich substrate is crucial, as it is primarily a root-feeder, although it also benefits from occasional micronutrient dosing through the water column.

Ranunculus inundatus can be moderately demanding due to its sensitivity to inconsistent parameters. Careful pruning encourages lateral spread and prevents vertical overgrowth. It propagates by runners that form plantlets, which can be separated and replanted to create a fuller look.

Care Tips:

• Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate is essential; root tabs enhance performance in inert substrates.

• Lighting: High lighting required to maintain compact growth and prevent stretching.

• Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Nutrients: Medium to high; CO₂ and micronutrient fertilization recommended.

• Propagation: Spreads via runners; plantlets can be separated and repositioned.

Growth: Moderate
Lighting: High
Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Nutrients: Medium to high
Difficulty: Intermediate