Cherry Cabomba, Carolina Fanwort

cabomba caroliniana

Also known as: ["Cherry Cabomba","Carolina Fanwort"]

Family: Cabombaceae Genus: Cabomba Category: Leaf Plants

Overview

An aquatic plant with delicate, fan-shaped leaves, often used in aquariums for its decorative foliage.

Benefits & Perks

["aesthetic foliage","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Nymphaeales
Family: Cabombaceae
Genus: Cabomba
Botanical Name: Cabomba caroliniana

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Leaf Plants
  • Suitable Location: Freshwater aquarium or pond
  • Suitable For:
    Indoor Plant Lovers Aquarium Enthusiasts
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–28°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: Not required
  • Drainage: Not applicable; submerged environment
  • Soil Type: Aquarium substrate or specialized aquatic plant mix
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed; typically every 1–2 months
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 6–8 hours/day; adjust for intensity to prevent leaf burn.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to higher light gradually; avoid direct sunlight; provide shade during peak hours for outdoor placement.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, stem rot, or algae overgrowth indicate poor water or substrate conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

Low to moderate light

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light; monitor for signs of light stress.

Watering

Keep water level consistent, ensuring the crown is submerged

Ensure water level remains stable; avoid water stagnation; use dechlorinated water for sensitive species.

Soil

Not applicable (aquatic)

pH: 6.0–7.5

Use dechlorinated water; avoid compacted substrate; replenish nutrients as needed.

Temperature

Ideal range 20–28°C (68–82°F); cooler temperatures tolerated but growth slows below 18°C.

Monitor ambient temperature; avoid sudden fluctuations; use a thermometer for accuracy.

Fertilizing

Every 4–6 weeks during active growth with liquid aquarium fertilizer

Apply fertilizer after water changes; target root zone; flush substrate occasionally to prevent buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select healthy stem.
  2. Cut below node.
  3. Remove lower leaves.
  4. Place in medium.
  5. Maintain conditions.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active

Environment

High humidity, warm temperatures (24–26°C), indirect light

Medium

Aquarium substrate or water

Hormone

Not required but can expedite rooting

Timeline

2–4 weeks for roots; 1–2 months to establish

Tools Needed

Sharp scissors, rooting medium, container

Quick Tips

Use multiple cuttings for better success; change water regularly if using aquatic method; ensure nodes are submerged.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip stems just above a node or junction

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or decaying stems to maintain plant health and aesthetics.

Tools

Sharp scissors or pruning shears

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead material; avoid over-pruning healthy stems.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring before active growth

Pot Size

Same size container; focus on substrate renewal

Method

Gently remove plant; refresh substrate; ensure proper water level

Suggestions

Not typically required unless substrate is depleted or compacted; repot every 1–2 years.

Checklist

Check root health; replace substrate; maintain water level.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check water level daily; change water weekly; monitor for algae growth.

How to Apply Water Properly

Maintain water level above the root zone; ensure gentle water flow to avoid disturbing substrate; perform water changes every 1–2 weeks.

Pro Tip: Use a siphon to remove debris before refilling to maintain water clarity.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water consistently to maintain 2–4 inches of water above the substrate; adjust for evaporation rates in warmer months.

Soil Improvement

Add nutrient-rich substrate; incorporate organic matter for slow release.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme conditions.

Cold Stress

Growth cessation, leaf discoloration, and potential tissue damage below 10°C.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate container; avoid drafts.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced photosynthesis in temperatures above 30°C.

Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and ensure adequate water supply.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer concentration; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilization.

Fertilizing Method

Use liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid winter fertilization.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Cabomba caroliniana may indicate nutrient deficiencies, poor water quality, or stress from suboptimal light conditions, affecting overall plant health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Cabomba caroliniana is often a sign of inadequate water uptake or environmental stress, which can lead to reduced growth and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Cabomba caroliniana may be caused by bacterial or fungal pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic area and potential leaf loss if the infection spreads.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Cabomba caroliniana due to over-saturation or poor water circulation, leading to tissue decay and plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume Cabomba caroliniana. The plant is not highly toxic, but ingestion can lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs or symptoms appear.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Cabomba caroliniana may result in mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but large quantities could cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from ingesting the plant. Contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Cabomba caroliniana contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic to humans, but consumption may lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of the plant material. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Cabomba caroliniana toxic to pets?

A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.

Q: How do I care for Cabomba caroliniana in an aquarium?

A: Provide moderate lighting, CO2 supplementation, and nutrient-rich substrate for optimal growth.

Q: Why are the leaves of my Cabomba turning yellow?

A: Yellowing leaves may indicate insufficient light, nutrient deficiency, or poor water conditions.

Quick Reference
Family: Cabombaceae
Care: easy
Light: Low to moderate light
Water: Keep water level consistent, e
Suitable For: ["indoor plant lovers","aquarium enthusiasts"]
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