Banana Plant Lily for Freshwater Aquariums, Easy Nymphoides aquatica as a Dormant or Sprouted Bulb

Add an unusual foreground or midground plant to a freshwater aquarium. Nymphoides aquatica grows from thick banana-shaped tubers resting on the substrate and sends round lily-like leaves upward on slender stalks, creating a recognizable shape without requiring injected carbon dioxide.

Choose one dormant bulb without leaves or one bulb that has already sprouted. The source lists beginner care, low-to-medium light, water from 72–82°F and pH 6.0–7.5. Mature height is listed at 4–8 inches, although longer surface leaves may develop if left untrimmed.

Key Features

• Banana-shaped tubers create a distinctive freshwater aquarium focal point.
• Beginner care profile requires low-to-medium light and no added carbon dioxide.
• Dormant and sprouted bulb options preserve two exact source conditions.
• Plant can grow in plain gravel or sand without a specialized substrate.
• Round leaves may be trimmed at the base to maintain compact growth.

Specifications

• Scientific name: Nymphoides aquatica
• Placement: aquarium foreground to midground
• Mature height stated by source: 4–8 inches
• Water range: 72–82°F; pH 6.0–7.5
• Options: dormant bulb without leaf or sprouted bulb with leaf

Rest the tubers on top of the substrate and never bury them, because buried tubers can rot. A dormant bulb can be normal; provide the listed conditions and allow time for new growth.