Hygrophila lancea "Sarawak"

In the USA, this plant was introduced to trade under the name Hygrophila sp. 'Sarawak' several years ago. Later on it was identified as Hygrophila lancea. It may still be unknown as aquarium plant in Europe.
The emersed form of H. lancea grows to a height of up to 60 cm. It is a perennial plant with upright stems and lanceolate, opposite leaves around 5 to 10 cm long and 5 to 15 mm wide. In China, young sprouts of this Hygrophila are used as a leafy vegetable.

In the submersed form, H. lancea develops lineal reddish leaves that are smaller and narrower than the green emersed ones. In contrast to other Hygrophilas it is a moderate grower and is thus easy to handle.

- To be continued -