Overview: Cyperus helferi is a plant from the family Cyperaceae and can grow perfectly underwater. It is the first plant from the family which is used in the aquarium. The plant originates from Southeast Asia and is more popular in Thailand. It is found growing in both submerged and immersed conditions on the banks of slow flowing water and standing water in the country. It is a slow growing plant which enhances the beauty of the aquarium with the flowing water current.  It needs a proper dose of micronutrients so that the grace of the leaves doesn’t vanish and they don’t turn yellow. Being a rosette style plant the roots system is comparatively low.

Appearance: It is a grass-like high-growing rosette plant. The leaves are long and flat and give an elegant appearance to the aquarium. Cultivating this plant is no brains as it easily gets adapted to the new water eco-system. It needs to grow in the aquarium substrate to a height of around 20-35 cm. Apart from micronutrients, if fertilizers and CO2 are also added you would get the best result.

Hard/soft plant: Hard plant

Ideal water temperature: The temperature where Cyperus helferi is seen flourishing is between 20 to 30 °C.

Lighting conditions: The plant can thrive well when the lighting conditions are weak. Diffuse light is enough to provide it the desired light requirements. However, providing 2-4 watts/ gallon would do wonders and enhance the growth of the plant.

Ideal pH Level: The pH between 5 and 7.5 is considered perfect for the plant. If the water is slightly acidic, it contributes to the growth and thereby a healthy plant inside the aquarium.

Do you know: It was Takashi Amano, a Japanese who brought the plant Cyperus helferi to the attention of aquarists around the world. He was the first person to use it as fascinating aquatic scenery in the aquarium.