Rorippa aquatica (Water Cabbage)
Rorippa aquatica (Water Kale, Armoracia aquatica)
A unique, easy-to-grow plant from the true cabbage family, this uncommon plant is the best combination of super easy and super beautiful. It looks like an (imaginary) cross between an Amazon Sword and Kale. No CO2 or high light is needed and the plant is coldwater hardy for Goldfish, Amphibian, and native biotype enthusiasts.
Rorippa aquatica is a wonderful foreground or midground plant depending on the size of your tank. Rare and fairly new to the aquarium hobby, Rorippa has the coolest leaf shapes that vary depending on growth conditions. It is an absolutely amazing low-tech plant that also happens to produce beautiful, elegant foliage in a high-tech environment making for a beautiful focal point. This plant will not disappoint. Who knew Kale could be so fun?!
Like most aquarium plants, Rorippa aquatica is amphibious and a fantastic addition to terrariums, paludariums, or Wabi Kusa.
QUICK NOTES:
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Rosette Stem
Size: 10 – 60 cm in height
Position and Usage: Foreground placement
Growth rate: Fast
Lighting: 2/5 – 5/5
Water Conditions: 20 – 25°C; pH of 6.0 – 7.5
CO2: Not required
Propagation: Cuttings, leaves
Description
Rorippa aquatica, also known as ‘Water Cabbage’, is an amphibious, rosette-type species native to the central and southern United States. It is actually a member of the Brassica family - true cabbages and may be edible. It is a small, fast-growing plant well-suited to either foreground or midground placement. It has a unique appearance which can vary as a result of different growth conditions but is always attractive and a newer plant in the aquarium hobby.
R. aquatica is a naturally rare variety distinguished by alternate, serrated leaves. Specimens propagate readily - sheding mature leaves which go on to produce roots and form new growth (fresh leaves and roots) similar to Water Wisteria. These new plantlets should initially be handled with care.
Although R. aquatica is an otherwise unfussy plant, it does prefer relatively cool water with moderate-to-high lighting and a nutrient-rich substrate. CO2 supplementation and water column fertilization will boost the growth rate of this naturally fast-growing plant that may necessitate semi-regular trimming. R. aquatica is both a rosette and a stem plant and cuttings may be replanted to propagate.
Rorippa is an amazing addition to the aquarium hobby because it is not only fairly easy and fast growing but also beautiful and unusual. It is one of the few types of plants that are suitable for the foreground of low-tech aquariums - a real gem. For high tech aquariums, this plant will really "take off" and make a major statement in you aquascape!
