GROWOW TISSUE CULTURE - HYGROPHILA PINNATIFIDA UK - C31TC by www.AquariumPlantShop.com

This variant of the beautiful Hygrophila pinnatifida from India entered the market under names such as "Hygrophila pinnatifida sp. UK". In this case the abbreviation does not mean United Kingdom but Uttara Kannada, a district of the Indian state Karnataka where the plant apparently was collected. It differs slightly from the customary H. pinnatifida form that was found in the border region of Goa and Maharashtra. The leaves of Hygrophila pinnatifida "Uttara Kannada" get slightly longer and tend a little more to red coloration. Furthermore they are more pronounced pinnately lobed.

Surely this new form of H. pinnatifida does not differ from the customary one by its requirements and uses. Medium to strong lighting, CO₂ addition, complete macro and micronutrient supply and temperatures above 20 °C (optimum: 25-29 °C) are recommended. Hygrophila species are susceptible to potassium deficiency symptoms (pinholes in older leaves). H. pinnatifida can be planted into the ground but also attaches itself by its roots to hard materials. It is easily propagated by cuttings and its many runner-like horizontal shoots. Occasional trimming promotes more compact growth.

Hygrophila pinnatifida "Uttara Kannada" is an interesting, still rarely available novelty. As well as customary H. pinnatifida, it can be used for the midground and the hardscape of aquariums.