A dramatic, textured stone for natural aquascapes and terrariums.
Darwin Black Lava is a jet-black volcanic rock known for its rugged surface, deep crevices, and striking contrast. Ideal for use in aquariums, terrariums, and vivariums, it brings bold texture and depth to any layout.
Naturally porous and rich in minerals, this stone supports the growth of beneficial bacteria—helping to create a stable, bioactive environment. Its surface also provides excellent grip for mosses and epiphytic plants like Anubias, Bucephalandra, and Java moss.
Lightweight yet solid, Darwin Black Lava works especially well with wood in ryobokustyle aquascaping. It’s also a top choice for high-humidity habitats thanks to its ability to retain and release moisture effectively.
And because it’s inert, it won’t affect pH or water hardness—making it safe for sensitive aquatic species.
Key Features
Jet-black lava stone with high texture and natural crevices
Striking contrast with aquatic plants, mosses, and wood
Highly porous—ideal for bioactive setups and beneficial bacteria
Excellent anchor for mosses and epiphytic plants
Inert—does not alter water chemistry
Complements wood beautifully in aquariums and terrariums
Specifications
Type:Igneous volcanic stone
Colour:Jet black with natural dark grey variation
Texture:Rugged, porous, and deeply creviced
Stone Sizes:Mixed pieces from 10 to 30 cm
Water Impact:Inert – does not affect pH or hardness
Set Box suitable for tanks up to 60cm and Mega Box for tanks over 60cm
Shipping info
All our products are in stock, ready to ship (unless otherwise stated). Order before 4pm for same day dispatch (Mon-Fri). Prices start at £4.99 for a Tracked 48 Service (up to 5kgs) and £8.99 for Express Delivery via DPD.
Our Delivery Promise To You
If you choose Express Delivery, we will replace any plants that are damaged due to delays. Express Delivery is a fast, trackable, and reliable option with a one hour delivery window. It also ensures that the plants will arrive in the same condition as when they left our facility. If you choose a different postage option, such as Tracked 24 or Tracked 48, you will not be covered for any damages due to delays and will assume the risk yourself if the plants do not arrive in good condition. Express Delivery includes an insurance policy, which may cost more but provides added peace of mind.
Your plants will be wrapped with recyclable Honey Comb wrap - sounds cool because it is :). It interlocks which means we don't need to use tape either, reducing our impact on the environment.
Not only is delivery fast with DPD Express but it's also green as they offset all the carbon their vehicles produce. Guilt free delivery which we're very proud of...
We guarantee you'll be happy with your order. But if you're not, please contact us so we can resolve. We are 100% here to help and will always do our best to resolve any issues - that's a promise.
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Etsy customer
This is the second time I've bought from this shop and both times products arrived in good time and in very good shape. Plants are always a decent size and healthy
Hottonia palustris
nina
First time ordering plants online and I now have a permanent source. Not only cheaper but so much better than previous purchases I’ve made in store.
Can’t make a single complaint, next day delivery, great packaging no damage anything. And the moss balls are so tiny I love it. Can’t wait to add them to the tank.
They include little care sheets to figure out how to properly care for your plants if needed. Will be coming back when I’m ready to move forward with the next plants. Great company ☺️
Aqua Essentials
Etsy customer
All plants arrived in excellent condition and made a perfect addition to my aquarium
Bolbitis heudelotii (Congo fern)
Etsy customer
Super fast delivery well packaged item identical to picture really happy looks fab
I have had the plants about three weeks now and so far so good. If Aqua Essentials could please provide a list of easy to grow plants. I know Co2 instruction is ideal but i am not sure how that is achieved or the cost of doing that?
Fast delivery and plants arrived in great condition i am now waiting to monitor the growth in my nee set up and then I will be placing a further order.
This is the second time I've bought from this shop and both times products arrived in good time and in very good shape. Plants are always a decent size and healthy