Crinum Calamistratum

Crinum Calamistratum is a striking aquatic plant known for its long, curly leaves and unique appearance. This plant is perfect for creating a dramatic focal point in your aquarium. Although it grows slowly, Crinum Calamistratum is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of tank conditions, making it a favorite among both novice and experienced aquarists.

Planting and Placement

Substrate: Crinum Calamistratum has a bulbous root system that should be partially buried in the substrate. Use a nutrient-rich substrate or supplement with root tabs to provide essential nutrients. Ensure that the bulb is not entirely buried to prevent rot.

Light Requirements: This plant prefers moderate to high lighting. Aim for 2 to 4 watts per gallon or an equivalent LED setup. Adequate lighting promotes healthy growth and helps prevent the leaves from becoming leggy.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: Crinum Calamistratum thrives in a temperature range between 72°F and 82°F.
• pH: It prefers slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2 to 12 dGH) is ideal for Crinum Calamistratum.

Maintenance

Pruning: Due to its slow growth, Crinum Calamistratum requires minimal pruning. Remove any dead or decaying leaves to maintain the plant’s health and appearance. Pruning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the bulb and root system.

Fertilization: Regular fertilization is beneficial for Crinum Calamistratum. Use root tabs to supply nutrients directly to the roots. Liquid fertilizers can also be used to supplement water column nutrients, especially in tanks with other plants.

CO2 Requirements: While Crinum Calamistratum can grow without additional CO2, it will benefit from CO2 supplementation. CO2 injection can enhance growth and contribute to more vibrant and healthier leaves.

Propagation

Crinum Calamistratum propagates through bulb offsets. Over time, the main bulb will produce smaller bulbs. Once these offsets have developed roots and a few leaves, they can be separated from the main plant and replanted. Be patient, as this process can take several months.