Wendtii Crypt
cryptocoryne wendtii
Also known as: ["Crypt wendtii","Wendt's Water Trumpet"]
Overview
A popular aquatic plant native to Sri Lanka, valued for its vibrant foliage and adaptability in aquariums.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","low maintenance","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Cryptocoryne |
| Botanical Name: | Cryptocoryne wendtii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: planted in aquariums or paludariums
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"22–28°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–11 (tropical/subtropical aquatic)"}
- Misting: not applicable (fully submerged)
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; soil should retain some moisture but not stay waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; can tolerate aquatic substrates if grown submerged.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Low to medium indirect light; 4–6 hours of bright indirect light per day; adjust for stronger light by increasing distance or using sheer curtains.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to higher light levels; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn; place in a shaded spot if outdoors during peak sun hours.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
low to moderate light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
not applicable (aquatic plant)
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow top inch of soil to dry between waterings, avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Soil
aquarium substrate with nutrient-rich properties
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is well-aerated, avoid compacted soil, maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers stable temperatures between 72–82°F (22–28°C); thrives in warm, humid environments typical of tropical regions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor humidity levels in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks with liquid aquarium fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil, not dry; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or separation of plantlets from the mother plant.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizome or plantlet, plant in new container, water thoroughly, place in indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Standard potting mix with added perlite for drainage, or aquatic substrate if grown submerged.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
New growth visible within 2–4 weeks; fully established in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or scissors, small pots, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has roots and leaves; keep soil consistently moist post-division; avoid direct sunlight until established.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean cuts to avoid damaging the rhizome.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or decaying leaves to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Identify dead/damaged leaves, sterilize tools, cut cleanly at base, dispose of removed foliage.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, during active growth phase.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil, inspect roots, position plant correctly, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains freely from the pot, ensure excess water exits to prevent root rot, water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water consistently, keeping substrate moist but not waterlogged; adjust frequency based on temperature and humidity, typically every 5–7 days in moderate conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for organic matter; incorporate perlite or sand for aeration and drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in cold; wilting or brown leaf edges in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes, causing stunted growth and leaf discoloration; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, maintain humidity to buffer temperature fluctuations.
Hot Stress
Accelerates water loss, leading to wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering; can cause root desiccation.
Solution: Increase watering frequency, provide shade, improve air circulation, mist foliage to boost humidity.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCryptocoryne wendtii is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCryptocoryne wendtii is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCryptocoryne wendtii is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is a popular aquatic plant used in aquariums and does not pose any significant health risks upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Cryptocoryne wendtii?
A: Propagate by dividing the rhizome or separating runners that grow from the base.
Q: Why are my Cryptocoryne leaves turning brown?
A: This is often due to poor water conditions, nutrient deficiency, or sudden changes in water parameters.
Q: Can Cryptocoryne wendtii grow emersed?
A: Yes, it can adapt to emersed growth but thrives best when fully submerged in aquariums.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | low to moderate light |
| Water: | not applicable (aquatic plant) |
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