Cryptocorynes — “crypts” — are among the best mid-ground plants for a low-tech UK aquarium. They grow slowly but steadily in low light without CO2, tolerate typical tap water, and come in a huge range of leaf shapes and colours. Their one quirk is “crypt melt”, which alarms beginners but is completely normal.
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Here is how to keep them.
- Cryptocorynes are slow, steady, low-tech mid-ground plants needing no CO2.
- Plant them with the crown above the substrate and feed the roots with root tabs.
- 'Crypt melt' — shedding all leaves after planting — is normal; leave the plant and it regrows.
- Cryptocoryne wendtii is the hardiest beginner variety.
Quick facts
- Light: low to moderate
- Substrate: rooted; benefits from root tabs
- CO2: not required
- Growth: slow but steady
- Water: pH 6.0–8.0, tolerant of UK tap water
Planting
Plant crypts in the substrate with the crown (where leaves meet roots) above the surface. They are root feeders, so insert root tabs nearby every 2–3 months, especially in inert gravel or sand — see best substrate.
Crypt melt (don't panic)
When first planted or after a change in conditions, crypts often shed all their leaves — a process called “crypt melt”. The roots stay alive and new leaves grow back over a few weeks, adapted to the tank. Do not remove the plant — just trim the dead leaves and wait.
Popular varieties and tank mates
Common UK varieties include Cryptocoryne wendtii (green, brown or red), lucens and parva. Buy Cryptocoryne wendtii as a hardy starter. Crypts are safe with all fish and shrimp. Pair with Java fern and Anubias for a bulletproof low-tech setup — see best aquarium plants.
Frequently asked questions
How do you care for cryptocoryne?
Plant it in substrate with the crown above the surface, provide low to moderate light, and feed the roots with root tabs every 2–3 months. It needs no CO2 and grows slowly but reliably.
Why did my cryptocoryne lose all its leaves?
This is 'crypt melt', a normal response to being moved or to changed conditions. The roots stay alive and new, tank-adapted leaves grow back within a few weeks — do not remove the plant.
Does cryptocoryne need CO2?
No. Cryptocorynes thrive in low-tech tanks without CO2. They do benefit from root tabs in inert substrate to fuel their root systems.
— Jaqline Smalling, FishForever
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