Cryptocoryne Crispatula var. Balansae ‘Pink’ In Vitro Aquarium Plant – Small

Cryptocoryne crispatula var. balansae ‘Pink’ is an attractive long-leaved Cryptocoryne with narrow, strongly textured foliage that can develop green, bronze, reddish-brown and pinkish tones. The distinctive hammered or rippled leaves create excellent movement and texture in planted aquariums, particularly when grown as a group.

Although supplied as a small in vitro portion, this is not a small-growing Cryptocoryne. Once established, mature leaves can reach approximately 20–60 cm or more, so it is best suited to the background of medium to large aquariums or as a feature plant in taller tanks.

This variety is relatively easy and adaptable. It naturally occurs in limestone areas of southern Thailand and is particularly tolerant of harder, calcium-rich water. It can grow under low to medium lighting, although stronger lighting may produce more pronounced leaf texture and colour. Additional CO₂ is not essential, but can improve growth. A nutrient-rich substrate or regular root fertilisation is recommended.

Once established, the plant produces underground runners and can gradually form an impressive stand of tall, flowing leaves.

In vitro small portion

This product contains the full plant contents of one small in vitro tub.

Please note that the plant will be removed from its original tub and carefully repacked for transportation. This reduces the parcel size and helps protect the plant during delivery. 

In vitro plants are cultivated under controlled conditions and are supplied without the usual snails, snail eggs, algae and other common aquarium hitchhikers. Any remaining growing gel should be rinsed away before planting.

Plant care

How to plant

1. Carefully remove the plant from its transport packaging.
2. Rinse away any remaining clear growing gel using clean water.
3. Plant the roots into a suitable aquarium substrate using tweezers.
4. Keep the crown, where the leaves meet the roots, just above the substrate.
5. Allow adequate space around the plants for runners and mature leaves to develop.
6. Use root fertiliser if planting into an inert or older substrate.

Like many Cryptocoryne species, Balansae may take some time to establish after planting. Older leaves can occasionally deteriorate following a major change in conditions, commonly referred to as Crypt melt. Maintain stable conditions and leave healthy roots and crowns in place so that new submerged growth can develop. 

Please note: The photograph shows an example of the product. The exact quantity, size, leaf shape and colour may vary naturally. The pink, bronze and reddish colouration can vary considerably depending on lighting, nutrition and growing conditions. This plant is grown in a small in vitro tub but will be removed from the tub and repacked for transportation.