Cardamine Lyrata (Chinese Ivy) – Live Aquarium Plant

Bring vibrant life to your aquarium with Cardamine Lyrata, also known as Chinese Ivy. This hardy aquatic plant thrives in low-light conditions and helps oxygenate your tank, creating a healthy and balanced environment for fish, shrimp, and other aquatic life. Perfect for beginners and seasoned aquascapers alike, Cardamine Lyrata adds natural beauty and functionality to any freshwater setup.

Overview

Cardamine Lyrata features delicate, bright green leaves with a slightly ivy-like appearance. Its fast-growing nature allows it to quickly cover substrate or fill midground areas, creating a lively, natural underwater landscape. This plant is versatile, easy to maintain, and suitable for a variety of aquarium setups, from small nano tanks to large community aquariums.

Key Features

• Low-light aquarium plant, ideal for shaded tank areas

• Enhances oxygenation and overall tank health

• Fast-growing, providing quick coverage for midground or background

• Safe and suitable for fish, shrimp, and snails

• Easy-care plant, beginner-friendly

Benefits

• Adds vibrant green tones and natural texture to your aquarium

• Promotes healthy water conditions by absorbing nitrates and supporting oxygen levels

• Creates shelter and hiding spots for fish and invertebrates

• Versatile placement: substrate, driftwood, or rocks

• Reduces algae growth by competing for nutrients in the tank

Care Guide

Lighting:
Low to medium light is sufficient; grows well in shaded areas

CO₂:
Optional, but CO₂ supplementation can accelerate growth and improve leaf size

Water Temperature:
68–78°F (20–26°C)

pH Range:
6.0 – 7.5

Placement:
Midground or background; can also fill empty spaces for a lush tank

Substrate:
Nutrient-rich aquarium soil preferred, but can adapt to most substrates

Growth Rate:
Moderate to fast under optimal conditions

Care Level:
Easy

Planting Instructions

1. Remove the plant gently from its container.

2. Rinse to remove any gel or debris.

3. Separate stems into smaller portions if needed.

4. Plant stems in the substrate using tweezers, or attach to driftwood or rocks.

5. Provide low to medium lighting and optional CO₂ for enhanced growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How tall does Cardamine Lyrata grow?
A: Typically 4–10 inches (10–25 cm), depending on tank conditions and lighting.

Q: Is CO₂ required?
A: Not required, but it encourages faster growth and denser foliage.

Q: Can it be planted in low-tech aquariums?
A: Yes, it thrives in low-light and low-maintenance setups.

Q: Is it safe for fish and shrimp?
A: Completely safe for all freshwater community tanks.

Q: How do I maintain it?
A: Trim older or damaged leaves to promote healthy growth and prevent overcrowding.

Q: Can it help control algae?
A: Yes, by competing for nutrients, it helps limit algae growth.

Important Notes

• Initial adaptation may cause temporary leaf yellowing or melting; new growth will emerge

• Color and growth depend on lighting, water quality, and nutrients

• This is a live plant; appearance may vary slightly in size, leaf shape, or color

• Handle with care during planting to avoid damaging stems