Allways a good experience , fast delivery , really well packed .
Cryptocoryne usteriana
Tall ribbon-like Crypt for the deep background
- Regular price
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£8.99 - Regular price
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- Sale price
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£8.99
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Quick Facts
Rating:
Common name:
Origin: Asia
Position in Aquarium: Mid/background
Grows up to (cm): 30 cm
Pot Size: 5 cm
Growth rate: Slow
Description
Cryptocoryne usteriana is one of the tallest Cryptocoryne species available, producing long, ribbon-like leaves with a lightly ruffled edge that can reach 30–50cm or more in height. It originates from the Philippines and is one of the most dramatic background Crypts for large aquariums, creating a substantial curtain of foliage that sways naturally in the current.
Low light, no CO2, planted in substrate — the same straightforward requirements as most Crypts, despite the impressive size. Root tabs support the best growth given the large leaf mass. Temporary crypt melt can follow being moved; leave the rhizome in place and it will regrow. Once established it is vigorous and long-lasting.
Plant in the background substrate. It spreads via runners and will form a large stand over time.
Plant Sizes
You’ll receive a healthy, rooted plant in a pot, similar to those shown. Each one is hand-checked before dispatch.
Shipping
Same-day dispatch on orders placed before 4pm, Monday to Friday. Tracked 24 Service from £4.99, DPD Express from £6.99.



Cryptocoryne usteriana
- Regular price
-
£8.99 - Regular price
-
- Sale price
-
£8.99
Customers praised this aquarium plant for arriving in excellent condition with healthy growth. Shoppers reported it thrives in low light and grows rapidly after an initial adjustment period, reaching over 40cm. Multiple plantlets per pot provide great value. No crypt melt issues reported.
- The tallest section is over 40cm! It's thriving now.
- The pot got me 6 nice sized plantlets which are now growing very well with no crypt melt.
- Managed to get about 7 plants out of the 2 I bought.
- 5 stars: 13 (100%)
- 4 stars: 0 (0%)
- 3 stars: 0 (0%)
- 2 stars: 0 (0%)
- 1 star: 0 (0%)
Being an avid fan of Cryptocorynes (and AE), I must confess I had missed this on. So first time I have tried this particular;ar plant. I purchased two from Aqua Essentials and as usual they arrived on time, well packed and needless to say, very good plants. I am full of expectations for this particular plant. Thank you AE.
Great plants, well packaged.
The plants have been in my aquarium for 2-3 months and they are now growing rapidly. The tallest section is over 40cm !!! Growth at the start was almost undetectable but it’s thriving now.
It arrived in good condition and is steadily growing in my low light aquarium.
Excellent plant and growing well
Pleased with purchase
Already had this plant in my aquariums and wanted to add more. The pot got me 6 nice sized “plantlets” which are now growing very well with no crypt melt.
Fast despatch and arrived in perfect condition. Managed to get about 7 plants out of the 2 I bought.
Arrived in perfect condition and I’m extremely happy with this plant. Looks great!
Plants arrived quickly and were well packed and appeared healthy. Good instructions were included by Aqua Essentials. Only received the plants 2 weeks ago so too soon to review, not suffered from any crypt melt so far.
Healthy, little, good looking plant.
Arrived fresh and green! About 3 plants in one pot, still a bit small, but will hopefully grow quickly! ; )
Great healthy plants!!! Always great service
Product FAQs
Helpful details before you buy.
What is 'crypt melt'?
When moved, Cryptocoryne sometimes dissolve their leaves. This is normal. Leave the rhizome in the substrate and new leaves will regrow.
How tall does usteriana grow?
30–50cm or more in good conditions — one of the largest Cryptocoryne species and a proper background plant for large aquariums.
Where does it originate?
From the Philippines — one of the few Cryptocoryne species not from mainland Asia or Sri Lanka.
Does it need CO2?
No — grows without CO2. Root tabs or a nutrient-rich substrate support good growth given the large leaf mass.
How do I plant it?
Plant in the background substrate. It spreads via runners and will form a substantial stand over time.

