I used to think green leaves were the only choice for aquarium plants until I came across this cool lotus plant with red leaves.
Though it requires some specific care, it is a treat to watch in a freshwater aquarium.
Red Tiger Lotus Care Guide | Aquarium Requirements
This is how you can care for these low-maintenance plants:
Lighting
Red Tiger Lotus is capable of thriving in various lighting conditions, except a low-light tank setup.
It needs a medium to high lighting source, specifically 8 hours of daily light exposure, to attain fast root development, shoot stems, and bloom leaves.
While intense lighting can speed up the growth of the Red Tiger Lotus, it can also burn the lily pads.
Substrate
The plant grows well in a well-fertilized or nutrient-rich substrate. Many aquarists believe the ideal substrate is an iron-rich clay gravel to support nutrient needs.
In my opinion, nutrient-rich substrates, such as ADA Amazonia soil, Caribsea Eco-Complete Aquasoil, Seachem Flourite Black Sand, etc., can keep the bulb in place.
Water Condition
Red tiger lotus can thrive in water temperatures between 22 °C and 28 °C (71 °F and 82 °F). This plant dreads lower temperatures, which results in dormancy.
Note that it will produce new shoots when the temperature returns to normal.
Keep the plant’s water pH between 6.0 and 8.0 for healthy growth and development. Red tiger lotus can tolerate soft or hard water.
Fertilizer Supplements
These plants don’t need supplements. However, you can use iron-rich fertilizers to enhance their color and maintain a pleasing look. Since they are root feeders, use the root tab version.
Use only the mentioned amount, as frequent usage may lead to the growth of algae.
Biological Characteristics
Origin
The Red Tiger Lotus (Nymphaea zenkeri) is a flowering plant of the Nymphaeaceae family native to Southeast Asia and the Western tropical regions of Africa.
It is also known as Tiger Lotus or Nymphaea Lotus.
Habitat
Red Tiger Lotus is present in stagnant water and sidelines of lakes and ponds. It is tolerant of changing water temperature, lighting, and dissolved CO2.
The Red Tiger Lotus is a rooting plant that grows with an anchoring element, called a bulb. The roots ensure growth of new bulbs as the plant thrives.
Besides bushy leaves, it also produce blue or red flowers at the surface of the water. Other colors, usually white, are also prominent in some cases.
Tiger Lotus Bulb
These plants are unique from common aquarium plants; their growth starts from a central circular mass called the bulb.
The roots emerge underground from the bottom of the bulb. Once their roots anchor the bulb, stems and leaves develop and rise to the top.
Their stems grow horizontally up to 6 inches in diameter. They sprout from the exact location of growing heart-shaped leaves. Over time, when their stems clump together, they grow vertically, indicating varied plant growth.
Fast Growth
Tiger lotus grows faster than any plant I’ve ever kept. This plant exhibits phenomenal growth rates, and its fast-growing trait is best represented with its floating leaves.
If left alone and provided with ample space and the right conditions, their surface leaves can reach an impressive size of 2 feet in diameter.
N.B. Keep the plant in optimal conditions for proper growth.
How Red Tiger Propagates?
Propagation is when the plant produces seeds after the flowers have wilted.
Separating the bulb and the plant can be done when the bulbs/shoots have developed and formed roots. At this time, the plant will detach from the bulb, or it can be manually removed and replanted in the aquarium to grow another one.
How To Plant a Tiger Lotus In Aquarium
Place firm and healthy bulbs on the substrate’s surface and bury about half of them in it. Do not bury too deep, for the bulb may start rotting.
A thick root system will develop underneath the substrate, and it will continue to thrive. The plant produces seeds, which, in turn, creates more lotuses.
Maintenance and Care of Red Tiger Lotus
- Regular pruning or trimming of the plants ensure an aesthetically-pleasing appearance.
Cut the surface leaves and flowers before they wilt and turn into fruits.
- Unlike other plants, it does not need carbon dioxide injections to grow faster.
While it can be confusing to choose a plant for the aquarium, there are endless choices. Bring this centerpiece for your aquarium, and you’ll not regret it.
Problems Associated with Red Tiger Lotus
How To Contain The Root System
The root system of the Red Tiger Lotus can grow excessively. Managing the bulb is the right way to prevent the plant’s root system from taking over the aquarium substrate.
Essential Auxiliaries:
A plastic container that can hold at least four cups.
A piece of fine nylon mesh fabric to wrap the container.
Rubber band or fishing line.
Four cups of the enriched substrate.
Root tab fertilizer.
Follow These Steps:
Fill the plastic container with the substrate and root tab fertilizer.
Wrap the container tightly with fine mesh fabric.
Tie the fabric together and twist with an 8-inch-piece of fishing line.
- You can now place the container in the aquarium. Large flat rocks and pieces of wood can conceal the plastic container.
Wrapping Up
Red tiger lotus is undemanding and easy to care for; however, a strict care routine should ensure it grows healthily.
Bring it home and enjoy the aesthetics 🙂
