Aponogeton Madagascariensis / Madagascar Lace Plant / Laceleaf

OVERVIEW: The Mandagascar Lace plant is among the most sought after of aquarium plants. Its lattice like leaves and majestic size make it a true centerpiece. This plant has a reputation for being challenging to keep, however
HABITAT: Moving waters with dappled sunlight or shade.
NATIVE RANGE: Madagascar and Mauritius.
MAXIMUM HEIGHT: 25 inch (60 cm).
LIGHTING: Moderate, or in shady area of a bright tank.
WATER: 68-72 F (20-22 C); pH: Acidic to neutral; Hardness: soft.
FEEDING: Requires moderate to heavy feeding.
SPECIAL CARE: A. madagascariensis can be particular about its keeping conditions, requiring medium light, very clean water, and a pH of 7.0 or less. These plants do best when sown in individual small pots where the corm will not be disturbed. Floating plants help subdue light from above in brightly lit aquarium. Detritus and algae can become trapped in the open leaf structure and will kill the plant. Place in an area with gentle current that will help keep detritus off the leaves. Plants will probably die back and recover periodically.
PROPAGATION: Seed and crown division. Mature specimens will flower, holding spikes of tiny white flowers just above the waterline. When these flowers die off and seeds drop onto fine, rich gravel, new lace plants will grow around the parent plant. This is a slow process taking from three to four years to produce a full size plant.
NOTES: Gentle algae eaters such as Otocinclus vestitus (Dwarf suckermouth Catfish) can help with intricate leaf maintenance.