Ammania senegalensis

Common Name: Red African Hygro
Native to: Africa
Height: 16 - 20 inches
Width: 2 to 4 inches per stem, based on leaf growth
Growth Rate: Slow
Placement: Mid to Background
Lighting Needs: High lighting (3 - 4 watts/gal)
Temperature: 71.6 to 82.4 degrees
Hardness: Does best in soft water
Difficulty: Difficult

Ammania senegalensis is a beautiful almost orange red plant. Propagation is by cuttings, which should be at least 10 inches long. The width of each stem is about 2 to 4 inches, based on leaf growth. The leaf is curved in a downward fashion in an arch.

In order to achieve strong shoots the substrate should be nutrient rich and light intensity high. Five to eight strong specimens can be used for the midground area to help accent the shades of green aquarium plants. Ammania senegalensis does much better in soft water. Can withstand temps from 53.6 to 86 degrees. Optimum growth temperature is 71.6 to 82.4 degrees.

My experience with this aquarium plant is that Ammania senegalensis is a slow grower and does better with frequent water changes. Ammania senegalensis definitely needs an adequate source of the gas CO2 (carbon dioxide), and you would need to use use Laterite or substrate nutrient balls or tablets in your aquarium. This aquarium plant can make a stunning addition to any aquarium if grown properly, and of course is considered a red plant of which there are only a few true reds. This plant is not often available from wholesalers, perhaps due to the difficulty in growth, however a fine specimen is a welcome addition to any aquarium.

This aquarium plant originates from the West Africa to Southern Africa region, as well as Eastern Africa to Abyssinia and lower Egypt.

Don Matakis is the Aquatic Grower & Senior Aquaculturist for freshwateraquariumplants.com. He may be reached via the Aquarium Plants link located below the plant photos.