Care specifications
| Type | Bulb |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Light | Medium (25–60 µmol PAR) |
| CO2 | Not needed |
| Fertilizer demand | High |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Max height | 12 in |
| Spread | 10 in |
| Placement | Midground |
| Attaches to hardscape | No |
| Snail & shrimp safe | Yes |
| Temperature | 71–82 °F |
| pH | 6–7.5 |
| Color | Red |
| Trimming | Regular |
| Styles | Nature, Jungle, Dutch |
Get Red Tiger Lotus
Propagation
The bulb produces offshoot plantlets and the mother plant can be divided; floating leaves left to flower may also set seed.
Frequently asked questions
How do I plant a tiger lotus bulb?
Rest the bulb on top of the substrate or bury it no more than halfway, sprout-side up — fully buried bulbs rot. Once leaves and roots establish, the plant anchors itself; root tabs nearby fuel its considerable appetite.
How do I keep my tiger lotus small and red instead of sending pads to the surface?
Pinch off any stem that races upward as soon as it appears — surface pads signal the plant to put energy into floating growth. Consistent pruning of climbers keeps it a dense, low rosette of red submerged leaves.
Why isn't my tiger lotus bulb sprouting?
Patience — dormant bulbs routinely sit four to six weeks before waking, then leaf out quickly once they do. Floating a stubborn bulb at the surface for a few days often coaxes it into sprouting. Only give up on a bulb that has turned soft and foul-smelling; a firm one is still alive.
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