Anacharis (Egeria densa) is one of the most widely recognized and beginner-friendly stem plants in the freshwater aquarium hobby. Native to South America, this fast-growing background plant is treasured for its long flowing stems, whorls of bright green leaves, and exceptional water-purifying abilities. Anacharis grows rapidly under most aquarium conditions, helping to outcompete algae, oxygenate the water, and provide cover for fish and invertebrates. Whether you keep a tropical community tank, goldfish aquarium, or temperate setup, Anacharis is one of the most reliable plants you can add to your aquascape.
Common Name: Anacharis, Brazilian Waterweed, Elodea
Scientific Name: Egeria densa
Origin: South America
Placement: Background, Midground, or Floating
Maximum Height: Up to 24 inches or more
Growth Rate: Fast
Care Level: Very Easy
Lighting Requirements: Low to High
CO2 Requirements: Not required
Temperature: 60–82°F
pH Range: 6.5–7.5
Anacharis is sometimes confused with Elodea canadensis and Egeria najas, but Egeria densa is the most common form sold in the aquarium hobby.
Anacharis has become a staple in the hobby because of its remarkable adaptability and water-improving qualities. It is one of the fastest-growing plants in the aquarium trade and is highly effective at absorbing excess nutrients.
Benefits of Anacharis include:
Rapidly absorbs nitrates, ammonia, and phosphates
Releases significant oxygen during photosynthesis
Helps prevent algae growth by outcompeting it for nutrients
Tolerates cold water, making it suitable for goldfish tanks
Easy to propagate by cuttings
Provides excellent cover for fry and small fish
Anacharis is adaptable to a wide range of lighting conditions but performs best under moderate light. Insufficient light will cause the plant to become leggy, with sparse leaves and elongated stems.
For best results:
Use low to moderate planted tank lighting
Provide 8–10 hours of light daily
Combine with consistent fertilization for best growth
CO2 injection is not required and is rarely used for Anacharis since the plant already grows rapidly without it. The plant prefers cooler, well-circulated water with stable nutrient levels.
Vigorous, sustainable growth
Ideal for low-tech tanks
Heavy nitrate absorption
Even faster growth and denser leaves
More vibrant green color
Can outpace tank space quickly
Anacharis can be planted in substrate or left floating, since it absorbs most of its nutrients directly from the water column.
Recommended approaches include:
Fine gravel or aquasoil for planted stems
Sand for delicate root anchoring
Floating placement for goldfish or fry tanks
If planted, supplementing with liquid fertilizer is far more important than substrate type.
To plant Anacharis successfully:
Trim the bottom of each stem to expose fresh tissue
Bury 1–2 inches of stem into the substrate
Plant stems individually rather than in clumps
Space stems about 1 inch apart for a dense look
Optionally weight bunches with plant anchors
Stems can also be left floating to provide surface cover and shrimp-friendly habitat.
Because Anacharis grows so quickly, regular trimming is essential to prevent overgrowth and stem rot at the base.
Maintenance tips:
Trim stems every 1–3 weeks
Replant the freshly cut tops for denser bunches
Remove stems that yellow or rot at the base
Dose comprehensive liquid fertilizer regularly
The cuttings can be replanted to expand your aquascape or shared with other aquarists.
Anacharis pairs well with peaceful community fish, cold-water species, and even goldfish, although goldfish may eat the plant over time.
Compatible tank mates include:
Tetras and Rasboras
Guppies, Mollies, and Platies
Cherry Shrimp and Amano Shrimp
Corydoras Catfish
White Cloud Mountain Minnows
Goldfish (as a feeder plant or alongside snacking)
Avoid herbivorous cichlids and crayfish that may aggressively destroy stems.
Often caused by burying stems too deep or poor water circulation. Plant shallowly and improve flow.
Indicates insufficient lighting. Increase light intensity or duration.
Suggests nutrient deficiency, particularly iron. Add a comprehensive liquid fertilizer.
Common when transitioning from emersed to submerged growth. New leaves will replace the melted ones.
Anacharis is an exceptional aquarium plant for hobbyists at every experience level. Its fast growth, water-purifying ability, and tolerance for varied conditions make it one of the most reliable background plants in the freshwater aquarium hobby. Whether you are battling algae, oxygenating a goldfish tank, or building a lush green backdrop in a community aquarium, Anacharis delivers strong results with minimal effort.
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