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Cryptocoryne Wendtii (Cryptocoryne wendtii)

Cryptocoryne wendtii is the definitive low-light midground plant, forming slow, dense rosettes in green, bronze, or red depending on the variety and light. It famously melts when first planted, then regrows adapted leaves — patience in the first month is the whole secret.

Care specifications

TypeRosette
DifficultyEasy
LightLow (10–40 µmol PAR)
CO2Not needed
Fertilizer demandMedium
Growth rateSlow
Max height6 in
Spread6 in
PlacementForeground, Midground
Attaches to hardscapeNo
Snail & shrimp safeYes
Temperature68–82 °F
pH6–7.8
ColorVariegated
TrimmingMinimal
StylesNature, Jungle, Biotope

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Cryptocoryne Wendtii

Cryptocoryne Wendtii 'Green'

$5.99 In stock

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Propagation

Produces daughter plants on short runners around the base; separate and replant them once they have a few leaves.

Frequently asked questions

Why did my Crypt melt right after planting?

Crypt melt is the species' standard response to changed conditions: it sheds its old leaves and regrows ones suited to your water. Leave the roots undisturbed, keep the tank stable, and new growth typically appears within two to four weeks.

Do Cryptocorynes need root tabs?

They are heavy root feeders, so in inert substrates a root tab near the rosette every two to three months noticeably improves leaf size and color. In aquasoil they are largely self-sufficient.

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