Cryptocoryne balansae

Originating from Southern Thailand the Cryptocoryne balansae (cryptocoryne crispatula) is a simple and attractive looking plant with fine stems supporting neat and crisp/crinkled leaves. The better the light, the more crinkled they appear and similarly if you give this plant less light, the leaves will appear almost smooth. Requires regular fertillization and/or substrate supplementation for ideal growth.

Ideally position in the aquarium in clumps of 4-5. Scatter them around a rock to create a wild and natural look and feel. This plant will need to acclimatise before it will flourish and grow and can reach up to 60cm if given the best conditions.

Understanding Crypt melt - all Cryptocoryne species require stable water parameter and light conditions. Once planted, Crypts should not be moved otherwise it can trigger what is called Crypt melt. If a Crypt has a significant change of environment (ph, kh , gh, lighting intensity or duration, root disturbance etc), Crypt melt can be triggered. The leaves start to disintegrate as the plant prepares for its new environment - DO NOT WORRY! Your plant will begin to grow back over the next 30 days (sometimes sooner, sometimes later) - it's still very much alive and busy getting ready for the growth of new leaves. In the meantime, any decaying leaves should be trimmed and recycled in a compost bin.