Aponogeton crispus

OVERVIEW: While the leaves of Bolivinianus are compared to seer sucker, the leaf edges of the large and elegant Crispus are curled and ruffled. Crispus occurs in both green and brown forms. Another variety of this plant, A. crispus Kompakt, is cultured and as the name suggests it is a more compact form. Crispus grows rapidly in bright and fertile substrate.
HABITAT: Quiet and running water in lakes and ponds that dry up periodically.
NATIVE RANGE: Southeast Asia.
MAXIMUM HEIGHT: 20 inch (50cm).
LIGHTING: Bright light preferred but will tolerate less.
WATER: 72-86 F (22-30 C); pH: Slightly acid; Hardness Soft to slightly hard.
FEEDING: Crispus grows best with a fertile substrate.
SPECIAL CARE: No special care required.
PROPAGATION: From seed or pollination. Flowers often.
NOTES: Aponogeton crispus is one of the species that is sold as a wonder bulb. It's a fast grower that works hard to enhance the aquarium even when all the conditions are not quite perfect. If the light is scant, it simply grows longer stems so the leaves can reach the surface in search of light. Bulbs start to produce leaves even if they are not planted in the substrate immediately, and young plants are easy to raise. Crispus produces one scented flower spike that is self fertile. Cutting the flower will not prevent dormancy, though a dormant period is not required in the aquarium.