Aponogetom spp.
A. crispus is a beautiful aquatic plant from Ceylon, producing large strap-shaped leaves which are bright greenand crinkled along the edges. Grows to a height of 30cm (12in) or more, and can almost fill a small aquarium. The delicate leaves may be attacked by snails. Needs strong light for vigorous growth. The bulb must be planted in a rich compost. Very difficult to propa-gate. A flowering stem may be produced, carrying a hooked in florescence above the water surface. In common with other Aponogetom spp., A. crispushas a winter resting period when part of the foliage may die back. Prefers neutral pH soft water.
A. fenestralis (Madagascar lace-leaf plant) is strictly for the specialist grower. Produces large leaves, up to 20cm (73/4in) long, which consist only of the leaf veins, producing a beautiful network. A similar species, A.henkelianus, has brownish foliage and more elongated leaves with fewer of the lace like holes A. uivaceus is a magnificent plant from Madagascar, with 25cm (93/4in)leaves, very broad, and twisted or waved. Its requirements are as for A.crispus, but this plant is even larger.Beware of buying dormant bulbs of this or other types: they usually turn out to be the related A. natans from Ceylon,which is useless for the aquarium.