Nesaea crassicaulis

Nesaea crassicaulis is a synonym of Ammannia crassicaulis; according to genetic findings, both genera belong together.²³ This marsh plant grows in swamps, streams and rice fields of Madagascar and of tropical and southern Africa.²³⁵ It reaches up to 50 cm and has thick, fleshy stems; submersed, the leaves are lanceolate and yellowish green to reddish.²

Soft to medium-hard, acidic water, a loose, nutrient-rich substrate and plenty of light benefit it.²⁴ To keep the lower leaves from dying off, the stems are planted individually in an open, bright position.²⁴ Under the old name, the similar but more intensely red A. gracilis is usually sold.⁵

1. Graham, S.A. & Gandhi, K. (2013): Nomenclatural Changes Resulting from the Transfer of Nesaea and Hionanthera to Ammannia (Lythraceae). - Harvard Papers in Botany 18 (1): 71-90.
2. Kasselmann, C. (2019): Aquarienpflanzen. 4th edition (German). - Ulmer Verlag, Stuttgart: p. 113.
3. Ammannia crassicaulis – Plants of the World Online, Royal Botanic Gardens Kew (WCVP data as of 4 June 2026, accessed 5 October 2026)
4. Ammannia crassicaulis – Tropica Aquarium Plants (accessed 5 October 2026)
5. Ammannia crassicaulis – Flowgrow aquatic plant database (accessed 5 October 2026)