Vallisneria spiralis (aka jungle val, straight vallisneria, tape grass, or eel grass) is a common aquarium plant, and is a good choice for beginners. It is quick to self-propagate through runners, and tolerates a wide range of water temperatures.
Height: 22 inches (55.9cm)
Lighting: Moderate Light
Temperature: 59-86°F (15-30°C)
Water Hardness: Moderately Hard to Hard
pH: Alkaline
Distribution
This plant is found worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions. It is mostly found in lakes, ponds, streams, swamps, and estuaries. It is able to grow in fresh or brackish water.
Propagation
In the aquarium, this plant propagates by extending runners across the substrate, forming new plantlets. In the wild, it produces flowers, yielding seeds in addition to producing runners.
In the Aquarium
Jungle Val is a great plant for beginner aquarists. Unlike many plants, it thrives in hard water with high pH. It can even grow in brackish water. It’s long, narrow leaves make great plants for background or midground placement.
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