Limnophila Sp Belem [TC]

Limnophila sp. “Belem” is known in the aquarium hobby for more than 20 years but still a rarity. It is probably a form of Limnophila aromatica. Its origin is unclear, however it is certainly not from Belém or vicinity in Brasil but from tropical Asia. In its submerged form, the plant has two to three narrowly lanceolate leaves with serrated edge per node. The submerged leaves have large blurred purplish red blotches. The leaves are up to 6 cm long and 11 mm wide, the shoots may reach a width of about 11 cm. This plant looks similar to Limnophila aromatica “Red” but differs by its marked blotch pattern and lighter coloured stems that are often dark brown-red in L. aromatica “Red”.

We recommend good lighting, soft to medium hard water, complete micro- and macronutrient supply, CO₂ addition and temperatures of about 22 to 27 °C. As well as other stem plants, it can be propagated by cuttings.

Limnophila sp. “Belem” is a rare colourful stem plant that is an eyecatcher by its striking purple blotches. It looks best as a smaller, up to 30 cm high group in the midground. It can also be grown as emersed plant in well-lit paludariums where one may expect its purplish flowers.