Water parameters
Temperature22–28°C
pH6–7.5
General hardness (GH)2–12 dGH
Recommended range
Overview
Cryptocoryne affinis is a common crypt in the rivers of the Malay Peninsula. Its lance-shaped leaves are dark, sometimes bluish green and slightly puckered on top, and a distinct wine red underneath. Its height is usually between 10 and 25 cm. Once established, it spreads quickly through underground runners and forms wide clumps that cover the midground; in this respect it is one of the "fast" crypts.
Planting and Placement
It is planted with the roots buried and the crown left exposed. Root tabs or a nutrient-rich substrate speed up growth. Because it tends to spread, leave space around it or regularly separate its runners.
Care and Fertilization
- Light: Low to medium; in low light the leaves grow longer.
- CO₂: Not required.
- Fertilizer: A root tab every 2–3 months.
- It does well in soft to moderately hard water. Sudden temperature differences during water changes can cause melting.
Propagation
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Common Problems
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Hobbyist notes
Things you won't find in books, learned by trial and error. The most helpful ones are on top.
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Change history and contributors
- Page created · October 16, 2026