Tropica Cyperus helferi in a pot

Tropica Cyperus helferi
Plant in 5 cm pot

Cyperus helferi is widespread in the tropics, but only a few species are good submerged plants. Cyperus helferi from Thailand is the first Cyperus species used in aquariums.

The plant requires a relatively large amount of light, and the addition of CO2 promotes growth. In aquariums with good water circulation, the plant sways beautifully in the current.

Profile:

• Name: Cyperus helferi
  
• Plant type: Rosette plant / grass-like aquarium plant
  
• Origin: Southeast Asia, especially Thailand
  
• Difficulty: Medium
  
• Growth rate: Medium
  
• Growth height: approx. 20–35+ cm
  
• Use in the aquarium: Midground to background, especially beautiful as a loose, grass-like group
  
• Light requirements: Medium to high
  
• CO₂: Recommended, promotes stronger and more uniform growth, but not absolutely necessary
• Nutrient requirements: Medium; regular fertilization supports healthy, long leaves
  
• Temperature: approx. 20–28 °C
  
• pH range: approx. 5.5–7.5
  
• Water hardness: soft to medium
  
• Propagation: Division of the plant / separation of daughter plants
  
• Special feature: Very elegant, long and narrow leaves with slightly overhanging growth; looks particularly natural in larger aquariums or layouts with strong currents.