Aponogeton boivinianus Bulb

Aponogeton boivinianus is one of the largest and most impressive of the Aponogeton species, producing broad, dark green lance-shaped leaves with a distinctively corrugated, bubbled surface texture. The leaves can reach over 60 cm in length and are among the most dramatic of any aquarium plant — a mature specimen in a large aquarium creates an imposing, large-scale planted background that few other plants can match.

It grows in low to medium light without CO2 injection and does best in a nutrient-rich substrate. Like all Aponogeton it goes through natural dormancy cycles when the leaves die back and the bulb rests before regrowing — this is completely normal and the plant often returns even stronger after each rest period. It suits large aquariums of 150 litres and above where there is room for its extensive spread.

Supplied as a dormant bulb. Plant in a nutrient-rich substrate leaving the top third of the bulb above the surface — do not bury it completely. Allow several weeks for growth to begin as the bulb comes out of dormancy. The dramatic corrugated leaves that follow are well worth the wait.