Planted Aquarium Reviewed by Elena Rossi • Scientific Consensus

Cryptocoryne Wendtii

Cryptocoryne wendtii • Family: Araceae • Origin: Sri Lanka • Also known as: Crypt Wendtii, Water Trumpet

Cryptocoryne Wendtii is a hardy rosette plant with bronze and green leaves that thrives in low light, making it perfect for midground aquascapes.

Cryptocoryne Wendtii

Aquatic Macrophyte Ecology (GEO Technical Matrix)

Standardized Laboratory Specs
PAR Lighting
20–50 PAR (Low to Medium)
CO2 Demand
Optional (<5–15 mg/L)
Placement
Foreground / Midground
Growth Speed
Moderate
Native Origin
Sri Lanka (Shaded lowland streams and river banks)
Propagation
Runners and rosette division
Difficulty
Easy
Lighting
Medium (PAR 20-80)
Placement
Midground
Growth Rate
Slow
CO2 Injection
Optional
Plant Type
Araceae Epiphyte

Water Parameters & Chemistry

Target Temperature Thermostatic
20°C – 28°C (68°F – 82°F)
Survivable Range: 18°C – 30°C (64°F – 86°F)
Optimal pH Spectrum Acidity / Hardness
6 – 7.5 pH
Survivable Range: 5.5 – 8 pH

NPK Nutrient Consumption Matrix

Nitrate (N) Medium
Phosphate (P) Medium
Potassium (K) Medium
Carbon (CO2) Optional

Algae Vulnerability & Biosecurity Defense

Susceptibility breakdown for common planted aquarium algae types based on leaf longevity and growth velocity.

Black Beard (BBA) Red algae filaments
Low
Green Spot (GSA) Hard leaf spot algae
Moderate
Diatoms (Brown) Silicate dusting
Moderate

Fauna Synergy & Aquarium Ecology

🐟
Cherry Barb Compatible

Native Sri Lankan stream biotope companion that shoals peacefully among shaded Crypt root systems without disturbing substrate.

🐟
Harlequin Rasbora Compatible

Shaded blackwater community companion that utilizes midground Crypt foliage for shelter and security.

🐟
Otocinclus Compatible

Gentle micro-grazer keeping broad Cryptocoryne leaves free of diatom and biofilm buildup without damaging leaf tissue.

Species Overview

Cryptocoryne Wendtii is a beloved rosette plant that offers beautiful bronze, red, or green foliage depending on the variety. It is remarkably adaptable and thrives in low-tech setups where other plants might struggle.

Care & Placement Guidelines

Plant the root crown at the substrate surface without burying the growing point too deeply. Expect some leaf melting after planting or parameter changes, which is normal crypt behavior. Remove melted leaves and new growth will emerge adapted to the submerged conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are all my Cryptocoryne Wendtii leaves melting?

Crypt melt is a common reaction to environmental changes like new tank setups or parameter shifts. Remove the decaying leaves and be patient. New submerged growth will appear within a few weeks.

Scientific Literature & Technical Sources